Understanding the Difference between Ketosis and Ketoacidosis

The terms ketosis and ketoacidosis sound similar, but they are two different conditions. So, what is the difference between ketosis and ketoacidosis?

Despite the similar names, ketosis and ketoacidosis are two different medical conditions. In simple terms, ketosis is a normal metabolic process that produces ketone compounds. Meanwhile, ketoacidosis is an advanced stage of the condition of ketosis that causes serious complications.

This is the difference between Ketosis and Ketoacidosis

Following are other differences between ketosis and ketoacidosis that you need to know:

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 fat metabolism process will produce compounds called ketones.

When experiencing ketosis, ketone levels in the blood and urine will be higher than normal, but not to the point of causing a change in pH or blood acidity.

Ketosis is usually triggered by a low-carb diet, a ketogenic diet, prolonged fasting, and alcohol consumption.

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 requires immediate treatment. In this condition, there is a very high increase in ketone levels. This makes the blood too acidic and interferes with the function of organs, such as the liver and kidneys.

Ketoacidosis is generally triggered by diabetes mellitus accompanied by several other conditions, such as not using insulin properly, infection, or pregnancy. In addition, drug abuse and alcohol addiction can also trigger this condition.

Difference Between Symptoms of Ketosis and Ketoacidosis

Apart from the cause, 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 characteristic bad breath. This happens because of the production of ketone compounds and acetone during fat metabolism. Acetone is released from the body when urinating and breathing is what will give rise to a distinctive odor.

  • Tired quickly

    When in a state of ketosis, your body will quickly feel tired. This condition usually occurs 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 patients with ketoacidosis are:

  • Frequent urination
  • Feeling very thirsty
  • Stomach pain
  • Skin becomes dry
  • Hard to breathe
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • daze
  • Loss of concentration
  • Dehydration

Overall, the difference between ketosis and ketoacidosis is clear from the causes and symptoms that arise. So, don't misunderstand the two. If you want to get more information about these two conditions, don't hesitate to ask your doctor.