Ketones in Blood

A ketones in blood test measures the level of ketones in your blood. Ketones are acids that your body makes when it breaks down fat for energy. Normally, the cells in your body use blood glucose, also called blood sugar, for energy.

You get glucose from foods you eat, such as carbohydrates. Your body breaks down most of that food into glucose and releases it into your bloodstream. If your cells can't get enough glucose, your body will break down fat for energy instead.

This process produces an acid called ketones. If your body breaks down fat too fast, ketones can build up in your blood and urine. High ketone levels make your blood too acidic.

This is a serious condition called ketoacidosis. The most common type of ketoacidosis is a complication of diabetes called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a medical emergency that often develops quickly and can lead to a coma and be life-threatening.

If you have diabetes, a ketones in blood test can help find high ketone levels early so you can get treatment right away. If your health care provider recommends frequent testing to check for increasing ketone levels, at-home blood testing meters are available that check both glucose levels and ketones. At-home testing for ketones in urine testing may also be an option.

Talk with your provider about which is right for you.

Why this test is done

You may need a ketones in blood test if you have diabetes or other conditions that increase your risk for developing high ketone levels, or symptoms of ketoacidosis. You may also need the test if you have symptoms, and you eat a low-carbohydrate diet.

Symptoms of ketoacidosis may include:

• Extreme hunger or thirst
• Urinating (peeing) a lot more than usual
• Dehydration
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain in your abdomen (belly)
• Confusion
• Trouble breathing
• Fatigue
• Dry skin and mouth
• Breath that has a fruity smell
• Muscle stiffness or aches

If you don't get treatment, symptoms can quickly become more severe. If you have severe symptoms of ketoacidosis, seek immediate medical help. Large amounts of ketones can be life-threatening.

How to prepare

You don't need any special preparations for a ketones in blood test.

Sample type

Blood Urine

Other names for this test

Ketone bodies (blood), serum ketones, beta-hydroxybutyric acid, acetoacetate, nitroprusside test