Dental Assistant Practice Exam

What causes diabetic acidosis (hyperglycemic coma)?

1. Excessive insulin in the system

2. An imbalance of insulin or glucose

3. High levels of exercise

4. Excessive caffeine intake

The correct answer is: An imbalance of insulin or glucose

Diabetic acidosis, often referred to as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), occurs primarily due to an imbalance between insulin and glucose in the body. In individuals with diabetes, especially type 1, the body lacks sufficient insulin to facilitate the uptake of glucose into cells. As a result, the glucose remains in the bloodstream, leading to very high blood sugar levels. When the body does not have enough insulin to process glucose effectively, it begins to break down fats for energy instead, producing ketones as a byproduct. The accumulation of these ketones results in acidosis, hence the term "diabetic acidosis." This state can result in a hyperglycemic coma, where the individual becomes severely ill due to the high levels of glucose and ketones present in the blood. It is crucial for people with diabetes to monitor their insulin levels and manage their glucose intake to prevent this dangerous condition. Other options do not accurately represent the primary cause of diabetic acidosis: - Excessive insulin in the system could lead to hypoglycemia rather than acidosis. - High levels of exercise can actually help lower blood sugar levels, assuming insulin levels are appropriately adjusted. - Excessive caffeine intake does not directly influence insulin or the creation of ketones,