It is very important that every person with type 1 diabetes test for ketones, especially children, young adults, and people who are on insulin pumps. More than two thirds of DKA episodes occur in people with type 1 diabetes. These people get multiple insulin injections a day and often have high blood glucose, known as hyperglycemia, and low blood glucose, known as hypoglycemia. When dealing with insulin pumps there are many things that can drastically alter blood sugars such as pump failure or something as simple as a disconnect. Pumps are a very effective tool in managing diabetes and are being used by many more people that in the past.
Pregnant women with gestational diabetes or pre-existing diabetes should know that their condition can be complicated as DKA occurs more frequently and rapidly with them than in other people. Since DKA is so dangerous
for children, ketone testing should never be neglected. It is such an important tool to use in protecting children at home and at school. Unfortunately not enough information is given to the type 2 patient about testing for ketones. Because it has not been considered urgent for this group of people, it is often neglected and healthcare providers many times do not stress the importance of protecting oneself from DKA. It is very important that all people with diabetes or parents of children with diabetes be ready to check their ketone levels whenever their blood glucose levels are higher than 250 and whenever they are sick.