Ketone: A chemical produced when there is a shortage of insulin in the
blood and the body breaks down body fat for energy. High levels of ketones can
lead to diabetic ketoacidosis and coma. Sometimes referred to as ketone bodies.
Ketonuria: A condition occurring when ketones are present in the
urine, a warning sign of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Ketosis: A ketone buildup in the body that may lead to diabetic
ketoacidosis. Signs of ketosis are nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
Kidney Failure: A chronic condition in which the body retains fluid
and harmful wastes build up because the kidneys no longer work properly. A
person with kidney failure needs dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Kussmaul Breathing: The rapid, deep, and labored breathing of people
who have diabetic ketoacidosis.
Ketones: Chemicals produced by the liver when the body cannot use
glucose and must break down fat for energy. Ketones can poison and even kill
body cells. When ketones build up, the body gets rid of them in the urine.
Ketones that accumulate in the body over long periods of time can lead to
serious illness and coma.
Ketoacidosis: A severe complication of diabetes that is the result of
high blood sugar levels and ketones often associated with poor control of
diabetes or as a complication due to other illnesses.
