Lifespan's A - Z Health Information Library

Alcoholic ketoacidosis is an accumulation of ketones (a type of acid) in the blood, caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

This disorder can be a complication of alcohol use, especially excessive alcohol use.

• Fatigue
• Slow, sluggish, lethargic movement
• Breathing difficulty leading, when untreated, to an abnormal breathing pattern
• Irregular deep, rapid breathing (Kussmaul's sign)
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness and light-headedness
• Confusion
• Agitation
• Changes in mental activity leading to loss of consciousness

• Blood and urine tests for excess acids, or ketones, in the body
• Blood chemistry tests
• Tests to quantify the amount of alcohol in the blood

Treatment in the hospital with intravenous fluids and frequent blood draws may be necessary to reverse the acidosis. Occasionally patients require intensive care unit stays.

Prompt medical attention improves the overall prognosis of this condition.

This can be a life-threatening disorder.

If you or someone else experience symptoms of alcoholic ketoacidosis, seek medical attention from an emergency department.

Limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels.