---
title: "Diabetic ketoacidosis: Symptoms & Treatment | HealthAnswers"
description: "Diabetic ketoacidosis warning signs, ketone testing, sick-day safety and when to call 999."
url: https://healthanswers.co.uk/conditions/diabetic-ketoacidosis/
robots: noindex
---

# Diabetic ketoacidosis: Symptoms & Treatment | HealthAnswers

Health A–Z

Diabetic ketoacidosis warning signs, ketone testing, sick-day safety and when to call 999.

Written by HealthAnswers editorial team Medically reviewed by [HealthAnswers UK doctor review panel](https://healthanswers.co.uk/our-doctors/) Reviewed 1 August 2026

## Quick answer

What is diabetic ketoacidosis? Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening complication caused by too little insulin. Symptoms include intense thirst, frequent urination, tummy pain, vomiting, deep breathing, fruity-smelling breath, drowsiness or confusion. It requires urgent hospital treatment.

## Who is this page for?

This page is for people in the UK who want a plain-English overview of Diabetic ketoacidosis, including when to seek help and what NHS care usually involves. It explains general information, not what is wrong with you personally.

## Who should skip this page?

Skip this page if you need a diagnosis, a prescription, or emergency care. It cannot replace a GP, pharmacist, NHS 111 or 999. If you are in immediate danger, call 999; for urgent advice that is not life-threatening, call 111 in England, Scotland or Wales, or use your GP out-of-hours service in Northern Ireland.

On this page 3 sections

## Key facts about diabetic ketoacidosis

- DKA is most common in type 1 diabetes but can occur in other situations.
- Illness, missed insulin or a new diagnosis can trigger it.
- Blood ketone results should be acted on using the person's diabetes sick-day plan.

## Warning symptoms

Watch for worsening thirst and urination, dry mouth, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, deep breathing, fruity-smelling breath, marked tiredness and confusion.

## Ketones and sick days

People given a ketone meter should know their team’s thresholds and contact details. Illness can increase insulin needs even when appetite is poor.

## Emergency treatment

DKA needs hospital monitoring because dehydration and changes in potassium and acidity can become dangerous quickly.

## ! When to see a GP about diabetic ketoacidosis

Follow your diabetes team's emergency advice for raised ketones. Call **999** or go to A&E for DKA symptoms, high ketones with worsening illness, repeated vomiting, deep or difficult breathing, drowsiness or confusion. Do not drive yourself.

## Common questions about diabetic ketoacidosis

Can DKA be the first sign of diabetes? Yes, particularly in type 1 diabetes. Thirst, frequent urination, weight loss and worsening illness need urgent testing. Should I stop insulin when I am not eating? Do not stop insulin without specific professional advice. Follow your individual sick-day rules and check glucose and ketones as directed. How is DKA treated? Hospital treatment uses intravenous fluids, insulin and electrolyte monitoring while the trigger is treated.

## Sources

- [NHS — Diabetic ketoacidosis](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/diabetic-ketoacidosis/)