CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What medical condition is usually associated with high blood sugar levels in diabetic patients?

1. Ketoacidosis

2. Hypoglycemia

3. Hypertension

4. Metabolic syndrome

The correct answer is: Ketoacidosis

Ketoacidosis is a serious medical condition that often occurs in diabetic patients, particularly those with type 1 diabetes or uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. It results from a dramatic increase in blood sugar levels, leading to the breakdown of fats for energy instead of glucose due to insufficient insulin. This process produces ketones, which are acidic, and when they accumulate in the bloodstream, they can cause the blood to become acidic, resulting in metabolic acidosis. The onset of diabetic ketoacidosis is typically precipitated by factors such as infection, missed insulin doses, or significant stress, and it can present with symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea, abdominal pain, and confusion. Immediate medical attention is often required to correct the high blood sugar levels and restore acid-base balance. This strong association between ketoacidosis and high blood sugar levels makes it the most suitable answer to the question regarding conditions commonly linked to hyperglycemia in diabetic patients.