SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/diab-sick-day-ketone-call

During illness, what should you do if an over-the-counter urine test finds ketones?

Call your doctor right away.

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  1. Wait until next week
  2. Call your doctor right away ✔
  3. Ignore them if resting

Why: Ketones during illness can signal a serious problem. Follow your written sick-day plan and contact your care team right away.

Huh, didn't know that: CDC also lists ketones in the urine among reasons to go to the emergency room.

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Why did the test strip phone home? It had important results to report.
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References

Answer: Call your doctor right away. Ketones during illness can signal a serious problem. Follow your written sick-day plan and contact your care team right away.

  1. CDC Managing Sick Days www.cdc.gov/diabetes/living-with/managing-sick-days.html
    If ketones are present, call your doctor right away.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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