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Alcoholic ketoacidosis

Definition

Alcoholic ketoacidosis is the build up of ketones in the blood. Ketones are a type of acid that form when the body breaks down fat for energy.

The condition is an acute form of metabolic acidosis.

Alternative Names

Ketoacidosis - alcoholic

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Alcoholic ketoacidosis is caused by alcohol use, usually excessive.

Symptoms

  • Fatigue
  • Slow, sluggish, lethargic movement
  • Breathing difficulty leading, when untreated, to an abnormal breathing pattern
  • Irregular deep, rapid breathing (Kussmaul's sign)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness and light-headedness
  • Confusion
  • Agitation
  • Changes in mental activity leading to loss of consciousness

Signs and tests

Treatment

Treatment may involve fluids given through a vein. You may need to have your blood taken frequently.

Some people with this condition need to stay in the intensive care unit of a hospital.

Expectations (prognosis)

Prompt medical attention improves the overall outlook.

Complications

This can be a life-threatening disorder.

Calling your health care provider

If you or someone else has symptoms of alcoholic ketoacidosis, seek emergency medical help.

Prevention

Limiting the amount of alcohol you drink may help prevent this condition.

Review Date: 2007-06-17
Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Pediatrics and Psychiatry, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © HealthProfessor LLC. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.