Alcoholic Ketoacidosis
Description
Produces too many ketones in the blood resulting in the blood becoming too acidotic. The syndrome occurs in alcoholic patients after the cessation of drinking for several days, and can be life threatening if left untreated. Patients typically have not been eating during a period of binge drinking and begin vomiting after they stop drinking. The vomiting can result in severe dehydration worsening the effects of the acidosis and excess ketones in the blood.
Symptoms
Vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, confusion, seizures, shortness of breath, and fainting.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood work is drawn to measure the basic chemistry of the serum and the acid base status of the blood. A search to rule out a co-existing infection is frequently performed.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- Lipase
- UA
- X-Ray
- EKG
Treatment
Treatment consists of the infusion of an intravenous sugar solution to re-establish the normal metabolism of glucose and to reverse the dehydration. Any other co-existing infections are treated as well. Alcohol and Drug Helpline: (800)821-4357 Al-Anon (888)425-2666
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