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What Are Ketones? |
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Ketones are acids produced from the breakdown of body fat. Insulin normally controls this production of ketones.
People with diabetes may produce extra ketones if they become unwell (e.g. Infection) or stop their injections. Excess ketones cause the blood to become acid; a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. This may develop over 12-24 hours.
Ketones can be detected in the urine using test strips (ketostix). A moderate or large amount of ketones in the urine usually means that more insulin is needed.
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When Should I Check For Ketones? |
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If you are unwell (eg.flu) or if you develop any of the following:
A temperature
Abdominal Pain
Vomiting
Excess thirst
Frequency of passing urine
A higher blood sugar than is usual for you
If you are unwell you may need extra insulin according to the sick day rules. The extra insulin should get rid of the ketones from your urine.
ALWAYS CONTACT A DOCTOR URGENTLY IF URINE KETONE TEST REMAINS POSITIVE OR IF YOU ARE STILL VOMITING AFTER 12 HOURS.
IF IN DOUBT GET ADVICE, DON'T WAIT.
Ring the Diabetes Centre for advice during office hours:
(Monday - Friday 9am - 4.30pm)
City Hospital (0115 9627621)
Queen's Medical Centre campus (0115 9709215)
Out of hours please contact your GP.
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