Fall is here, which means that the days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping. For many people with diabetes, this can be a time of year that requires special attention to both their symptoms and health.
The most common complaint from those with diabetes during fall is that they experience increased thirst, frequent urination and increased appetite. While these symptoms may seem harmless at first, it's important for patients to be aware that these symptoms could be linked to a condition called "diabetic ketoacidosis" (DKA). This condition is caused by a lack of insulin in the body, which results in an accumulation of ketones in the bloodstream. These ketones can make you feel nauseous and light-headed, sometimes resulting in fainting. When this happens, it's essential that you seek emergency care immediately.
Other warning signs of DKA include dehydration, fatigue and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms while also experiencing symptoms of thirst or frequent urination, you should seek treatment immediately.