Diabetic Ketoacidosis (Dka) - Insulet Omnipod Dash User Manual

13 Living with Diabetes
Possible causes of
hyperglycaemia
Weight loss or gain
or menstrual cycle
or pregnancy

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

Pods use rapid-acting insulin, so you have no long-acting insulin in your body. If
insulin delivery from the Pod is interrupted (an occlusion), your blood glucose
can rise rapidly and lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious – but
preventable – emergency that can occur if you ignore high blood glucose levels.
Warnings:
If left untreated, DKA can cause breathing difficulties, shock, coma and
eventually death.
If you need emergency attention, ask a friend or family member to take you
to the Accident and Emergency department or call an ambulance. Do not
drive yourself.
Symptoms of DKA
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Dehydration
• Fruity-smelling breath
• Dry skin or tongue
• Drowsiness
• Rapid pulse
• Laboured breathing
The symptoms of DKA are much like those of the flu. Before assuming you have
the flu, check your blood glucose and check for ketones to rule out DKA.
To avoid DKA
The easiest and most reliable way to avoid DKA is by checking your blood glucose
at least 4–6 times a day. Routine checks allow you to identify and treat high blood
glucose before DKA develops.
172
Suggested action
Consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
Effective Date: 27SEP2019, ECO-000240