Diabetic Ketoacidosis May Occur in Those Not Diabetic

Diabetic ketoacidosis was reportedly the cause of death for Casey Johnson. Many remember the heiress of the Johnson & Johnson fortune died on January 4th at the age of 30. Final reports indicate Casey Johnson's cause of death was diabetic ketoacidosis.

While Casey Johnson was a diabetic for most of her short life, ketoacidosis can occur in those who are not diabetic. This can be a serious health concern, and can cause death in those who were otherwise thought to be healthy.

Ketoacidosis occurs if insulin is being produced by the body but is not being used. The insulin may be there, but does not do the job of moving glucose to the cells as needed. Most often the body is not producing insulin when this occurs. The body begins to use fat that has been stored, and may eventually bring a person to the verge of death. This most often occurs in type 1 diabetes. The symptoms are serious, and require immediate medical attention.

Symptoms may include confusion, weight loss, excessive thirst, abdominal pain and vomiting. Sometimes diabetic ketoacidosis occurs prior to a person being diagnosed with diabetes.

Ketoacidosis may occur in a person who is not diabetic, but has been dieting and avoiding foods other than proteins. This type of eating plan causes the body to produce ketones.

Support groups for those with diabetes are available in Charlotte and other areas of Mecklenburg County. A helpful link for support groups is included below this article.

Diabetic ketoacidosis can also be caused by certain infections. According to Mayoclinic.com, common causes may include urinary tract infections or pneumonia. Please use their link below for more details.

Support groups in Charlotte

Medline Plus

Mayo Clinic info

Diabetic ketoacidosis

Ketones