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What symptoms are commonly associated with Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)?

  1. Fatigue, headaches, and high blood pressure

  2. Weakness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain

  3. Chest pain, rapid heart rate, and seizures

  4. Shortness of breath, confusion, and wheezing

The correct answer is: Weakness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication often associated with uncontrolled diabetes, particularly Type 1 diabetes. The symptoms you correctly identified, which include weakness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, are hallmark signs of DKA. Weakness often occurs due to the body’s inability to use glucose for energy, resulting in cellular starvation. Nausea and vomiting are common as the body tries to eliminate excess ketones and acids that accumulate when insulin levels are low, leading to a metabolic imbalance. Abdominal pain can also arise from the irritation of the stomach and intestines due to the high levels of ketones and acidosis in the body. Understanding these symptoms is vital for EMTs and healthcare providers, as recognizing them early can be critical in managing DKA effectively. Prompt assessment and intervention can help stabilize the patient and prevent more severe complications associated with this condition.