Understanding the Differences between Ketosis and Ketoacidosis

The terms ketosis and ketoacidosis do sound similar, but these two terms are different conditions. So, what's the difference between ketosis and ketoacidosis? Apart from similar names, ketosis and ketoacidosis are two different medical conditions. Simply put, ketosis is a normal metabolic process that produces ketone compounds. Meanwhile, ketoacidosis is an advanced level of the condition of ketosis which causes serious complications.

This Is the Difference between Ketosis and Ketoacidosis

The following are other differences between ketosis and ketoacidosis that you need to know about:

Ketosis

Ketosis is a normal and harmless metabolic process. This condition occurs when the body lacks carbohydrates to be burned into energy. So instead, the body will burn fat to meet its energy needs. This process of fat metabolism will produce compounds called ketones. When experiencing ketosis, levels of ketones in the blood and urine will be higher than normal, but not to cause changes in pH or blood acidity. Ketosis is usually triggered by a low-carb diet, a ketogenic diet, fasting for a long time, and consuming alcohol.

Ketoacidosis

Ketoacidosis refers to the condition of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) which is a serious complication of type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. Ketoacidosis can occur quickly and is a serious condition that must be treated immediately. In this condition, an increase in ketone levels is very high. This makes the blood too acidic and interferes with the functioning of organs, such as the liver and kidneys. Ketoacidosis is commonly triggered by diabetes mellitus accompanied by several other conditions, such as not using insulin properly, infection, or pregnancy. In addition, drug abuse and alcoholism can also trigger this condition.

Differences in the symptoms of Ketosis and Ketoacidosis

Apart from the causes, ketosis and ketoacidosis can also be distinguished from the symptoms, namely:

Symptoms of ketosis

Some of the symptoms of ketosis that can appear are:

• Bad breath

One of the symptoms of ketosis is the appearance of a typical bad breath. This happens because the production of ketone and acetone compounds during fat metabolism. Acetone released from the body when urinating and breathing is what will give rise to a characteristic odor.

• Get tired quickly

When in ketosis, your body will quickly feel tired. This condition is common due to the loss of carbohydrates as an energy source.

• Indigestion

Another symptom that can appear when the body is in a state of ketosis is the onset of digestive problems, such as constipation or diarrhea.

Symptoms of ketoacidosis

While the symptoms that can occur in people with ketoacidosis are:

• Frequent urination
• Feel very thirsty
• Stomach ache
• The skin becomes dry
• Hard to breathe
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confused
• Loss of concentration
• Dehydration

Overall, the difference between ketosis and ketoacidosis is evident from the causes and symptoms caused. So, don't make a distinction between the two. If you want to get more information about these two conditions, don't hesitate to ask your doctor.