Final answer:
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a dangerous complication of diabetes caused by accumulation of ketones due to fat metabolism when glucose isn't properly utilized, which can lead to extreme acidosis and is potentially fatal if not treated.
Step-by-step explanation:
The diabetic emergency caused by very high or very low blood glucose is ketoacidosis, which can be fatal if untreated. Ketoacidosis is a severe metabolic complication of diabetes resulting from the overproduction of ketone bodies, which are acidic compounds. This condition occurs because the cells in the body are unable to utilize glucose properly, leading to the metabolism of fats for energy which produces these ketones. High levels of ketones in the blood cause the blood to become too acidic, a condition known as metabolic acidosis, which can lead to diabetic coma or even death.
Diabetic ketoacidosis is dangerous because it causes homeostatic imbalances, like high acid levels in the blood and imbalances in mineral ions, which can adversely affect organs and body functions. For example, it can damage blood vessels, lead to kidney failure, and cause cardiovascular disease. The high risk of complications such as kidney disease, blindness, neuropathy, and increased risk for heart attack and stroke are why monitoring and managing blood sugar levels in diabetics is critical.
Therefore, prompt recognition and treatment of severe hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia are essential for preventing the development of ketoacidosis and potentially fatal outcomes.