What is a Dangerous Level of Ketones in Urine?

What Ketone Level in Urine Is Dangerous? Signs & Causes

Ketones are chemicals produced by the liver when the body breaks down fat for energy. It is a process which generally occurs when there is not enough insulin in the body to use glucose as a fuel. This is common in conditions like diabetes, especially Type 1 diabetes.

How are Ketones Measured in the Urine?

Ketones in the urine are generally measured through a Blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is the gold standard

• 1.5 mmol/L → Risk
• 3.0 mmol/L → Emergency

Higher levels of ketone, especially when paired with higher blood glucose levels, are a red flag for the development of DKA or Diabetic Ketoacidosis. It is a life-threatening complication which primarily affects individuals with Type 1 diabetes. It can also occur in people with Type 2 diabetes, under certain conditions.

Dangerous Levels of Ketone

Generally, ketone levels in urine above 3.0 mmol/L are considered dangerous. It is accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing and abdominal pain. The presence of large amounts of ketones can indicate whether the body is in a state of metabolic crisis.

In diabetic ketoacidosis, ketones build up in the bloodstream. It makes the blood acidic and leads to dehydration, and in severe cases, even causes a coma or death.

Cases of High Ketones in Urine

There are a lot of potential reasons for high ketone levels in the urine:

• DKA or Diabetic Ketoacidosis : It is more common in individuals who have diabetes. It can happen when the insulin levels are too low and the body starts breaking down fat at a higher rate.
• Fasting or Starvation : Going for extended periods of starvation without having any food can lead to increased ketone production. The body then shifts to fat metabolism.
• Low-Carb Diets : In cases of low carbohydrate intake, ketone production increases when the body adapts to burning fat instead of carbs.
• Alcoholic Ketoacidosis : People with chronic alcohol use, generally those who have poor nutrition, can get ketone buildup.
• Infection or Stress : Physical stress or illness can increase the body's demand for energy. It causes elevated ketones even for people without diabetes.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If the result of a urine test shows a large amount of ketones, or if there are symptoms like rapid breathing, confusion, dry skin, or excessive thirst, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. These are signs of DKA that require urgent treatment to prevent further complications.

Ketones in urine are early warning signs of serious health conditions. It is especially important for people who have diabetes. While a trace amount of ketone is not a cause for concern, large amounts indicate that the body is in distress and in danger of developing diabetic ketoacidosis.