Ketone Test
A urine or blood test for ketones, which build up when the body burns fat instead of sugar, as in diabetic ketoacidosis.
Quick Summary
To check for ketoacidosis in diabetes, especially when unwell or with high sugar.
Ketone level.
No preparation; follow your diabetes plan.
Overview
People with type 1 diabetes should check ketones when blood sugar is high or they're unwell.
Ketones can also appear with fasting or vomiting.
What It Measures
Ketones
Fat breakdown products.
How It's Performed
- 01
Sample
Urine strip or finger-prick meter.
- 02
Read
Compare colour or read the meter.
- 03
Act
Follow your sick-day plan.
Interpreting Results & Next Steps
Discuss with Doctor
Your doctor will explain what your result means and what happens next.
If values are High:
Moderate or high ketones with high sugar need urgent medical advice.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Ketones in Urine(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine