Final answer:
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of type 1 diabetes that occurs when the body starts breaking down fats instead of glucose due to insulin deficiency, leading to high levels of ketones and blood acidity.
Step-by-step explanation:
DKA in Type 1 Diabetes
DKA, or diabetic ketoacidosis, is a potentially life-threatening condition typically associated with type 1 diabetes, although it can also be seen in type 2 diabetes under certain circumstances. In type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disorder leads to the destruction of insulin-secreting beta cells in the pancreas. This results in a severe lack of insulin, which is critical for glucose uptake into cells for metabolism. Without insulin, cells cannot utilize glucose in the blood, despite elevated levels, leading to hyperglycemia. As a result, the body begins to break down fatty acids for energy, releasing ketone bodies and causing a metabolic acidosis termed ketoacidosis.
In instances where a person with type 1 diabetes misses a dose of insulin, DKA can be initiated due to the rapid onset of hyperglycemia. Symptoms of DKA include polyuria (excessive urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst), nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, altered consciousness. Quick diagnosis and treatment with insulin and fluid replacement are crucial for recovery.