If you have Type 1 diabetes, it is important to test for
ketones if your blood glucose levels are persistently over 13.8mmol/L, or when
you are ill. Some people do this by dipping a test strip in their urine, but
other test for blood ketones using a meter.
What are the pros of
testing for blood ketones?
It gives you a here-and-now result, which means
you can take action to bring your diabetes under control. The ketones in your
urine were in your blood several hours ago
It provides a numerical result rather than a
colour comparison, which can be more accurate and easier to read. Blood
testing, unlike urine testing, is unaffected by fluid intake
If you find urine testing distasteful, blood
testing is a quick and easy alternative
How can I test for blood ketones?
The test for blood ketones is the same process as for blood
glucose. If blood ketone testing is right for you then your GP can prescribe
the appropriate strips.
Who is it useful for?
People with Type 1 diabetes
Children, who are more likely to develop DKA
quickly and who it might be difficult to collect urine
Insulin pumpers, as DKA can develop rapidly if
the pump fails
Pregnant women, who can also develop DKA
quickly, which can seriously affect both their own health and that of their
baby
Blood ketone testing doesn’t replace blood glucose testing –
it can be used alongside it. If you think it could help you manage your
diabetes better, talk to your healthcare team.