What are the signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication that primarily affects individuals with type 1 diabetes, and it can also occur in those with type 2 diabetes under certain circumstances. The correct signs of DKA include high blood glucose levels, the presence of ketones in the urine, and a range of symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

High blood glucose results because the body cannot utilize glucose effectively due to a lack of insulin. When insulin is insufficient, the body starts breaking down fat for energy, leading to an accumulation of ketones, which are acidic byproducts. The presence of ketones in the urine is a hallmark sign of this metabolic derangement. Nausea and vomiting can occur as the body reacts to the rising acidity in the blood, accompanied by abdominal pain, which is often referred to as "diabetic abdomen."

In contrast, the other options present signs and symptoms that do not accurately represent DKA. For instance, low blood glucose and blackouts do not correlate with DKA, as DKA is characterized by high blood sugar levels. Sudden weight gain and fatigue are more ambiguous and can be attributed to various other conditions rather than DKA specifically. Similarly, while excessive thirst and frequent