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The Question
07/10/09 10:31 PM

"I live in San Diego and I can't find a pharmacy that has keto sticks, I am a type 1 diabetic."
Asked By: fawndlife  
Category: Type 1

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Expert Answers (1)

07/14/09 09:57 PM

Dear FawndLife; I'm sorry to hear of the frustrations. Type 1 can be plagued by a quick onset of ketosis and having a way to assess the potential is crucial. I would suggest a phone call to the local hospital, speak to one of their 'Certified Diabetes Educator' and obtain a full-proof connection to obtain the needed keto-strips, or if finances are the problem, these diabetes education program make provisions for financial assistances. Hopefully, the blood glucose levels are 250mg/dl or much less. Urine test kits for ketones should be readily available from your 'favorite' pharmacy, (they do NOT require a Rx) and /or you insist they obtain the test kits!! If you suspect you are producing ketones, (sign of ketoacidosis include); dry mouth, fruity breath, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fever, frequent urination-just to mention a few!! While you may need to consult with your personal(P) care(C) physician(P) or endocrinologist for elevated glucose levels and any needed medication adjustments. Once you have obtained the keto-sticks, and the results show a trace or small amounts, drink water every hour, check blood glucose levels and ketones every 3-4 hours. For large amounts of ketones, call your PCP right away. The levels will get higher!!! Ketone production is the end result of fat breakdown, this occurs when glucose can NOT get into the cells, suggesting an inadequate supply of insulin. Exercise, stress, illness, or pregnancy can increase the risk of KetoAcidosis-ketones are toxic and upset the body's chemical balance. This imbalance can occur within 6 hours. Be alert and take action be proactive to access the community resources to assist with maintaining health. Thanks for asking dLife, be your best and good luck. Call on us as needed. Regards Sue for YOU
Answered By: Susan Throop
Accreditations: RD, CDE, MA
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Community Answers (1)

07/17/09 09:28 AM

If you are referring to the strips to test urine for ketones - I buy mine from Wal-Mart. They aren't even locked up in the pharmacy. The Reli-On strips are on the same shelving unit with meters, foot cremes, and etc for Diabetics. Hope this helps. Good luck to you!
Answered By: fiercekitten
FLAG
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