4. Diabetic Ketoacidosis
When the body falls short of glucose, it will convert fat into the energy it needs to survive. The body will use fat to obtain triglycerides. When the body uses fat as an energy source, it causes a build-up of specific acids in the body. These acids are called ketones. Ketones are a leftover acid from this conversion process. In most cases, excess ketones are removed from the body via the urinary tract. Your body can use these to fuel your essential functions and feed your brain.
Ketosis is often found in diabetic patients who are unable to process insulin correctly or by those who do not produce enough insulin. Elevated levels of ketones in the blood can lead to ketoacidosis, which can be fatal.
Type 1 diabetics are more likely to develop ketoacidosis which can lead to a diabetic coma if left untreated. Ketoacidosis almost always causes hypokalemia in diabetic patients.