What is the Difference Between Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetic Ketoacidosis?

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) are related but distinct conditions. Here are the key differences between the two:

Diabetes Mellitus (DM):

DM is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin production or insulin resistance.
There are two main types of DM: type 1, an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system destroys insulin-producing cells, and type 2, a condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin.
DM can lead to various complications, including diabetic ketoacidosis, if not managed properly.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA):

DKA is a serious and potentially life-threatening acute complication of diabetes, most commonly occurring in people with type 1 diabetes but also possible in people with type 2 diabetes under stressful conditions.
DKA occurs when there is an absolute or relative insulin deficiency, leading to high blood sugar levels (above 250 mg/dL) and the production of ketones, which make the blood acidic.
Common triggers of DKA include illness, missed insulin shots, clogged insulin pumps, or incorrect insulin doses.
DKA typically has a severe and sudden onset, with symptoms such as frequent urination, extreme thirst, high blood sugar, ketones in urine or blood, and vomiting.

In summary, diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition marked by high blood sugar levels, while diabetic ketoacidosis is an acute complication of diabetes that can be life-threatening, often triggered by insufficient insulin levels or other stressors.

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What is the Difference Between Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetic Ketoacidosis?

Comparative Table: Diabetes Mellitus vs Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) are two different conditions related to insulin and blood glucose levels. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two:

Feature	Diabetes Mellitus	Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)
Definition	A chronic medical condition causing high blood glucose levels	An acute metabolic complication of diabetes characterized by hyperglycemia, hyperketonemia, and metabolic acidosis
Types	Type 1 and Type 2	-
Primarily Affects	Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes	Usually Type 1 diabetes, but can also affect Type 2 diabetes
Causes	Insufficient insulin production or usage	Insufficient insulin levels to meet the body's basic metabolic requirements
Symptoms	High blood glucose levels, frequent urination, excessive thirst, and increased hunger	High blood glucose levels, fruity-smelling breath, high ketone levels in urine, and symptoms present within a few hours
Treatment	Depends on the type, may include insulin injections, diet, and exercise	IV delivery of fluids, insulin, electrolytes, and medications for illness
Mortality Rate	Varies depending on management and complications	Up to 2% for DKA

Please note that these are general differences and individual experiences may vary. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and management of these conditions.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.