### Why Does My Breath Smell Like Acetone? Everyone experiences bad breath occasionally, often due to foods like onions or garlic or poor dental hygiene. However, if your breath smells like acetone, similar to nail polish remover, it could indicate a more serious health issue. #### Diabetes and Acetone Breath One of the main reasons for acetone-scented breath is diabetes, particularly type 1 diabetes. When your body can't use glucose for energy due to insufficient insulin, it starts burning fat instead. This process produces acids called ketones, which can build up in your blood and lead to a condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Fruity-smelling breath is a common sign of high ketone levels in people with diabetes and is one of the first symptoms doctors look for when diagnosing DKA. #### Other Causes While diabetes is a primary cause, acetone breath can also result from other factors: - **Keto Diet and Fasting**: Diets high in fat and low in carbs, like the ketogenic diet, can cause your body to burn fat for energy, leading to increased ketone levels and acetone-scented breath. - **Alcoholic Ketoacidosis**: Heavy drinking can also lead to a buildup of ketones in your blood, a condition known as alcoholic ketoacidosis. This usually occurs with excessive alcohol consumption, vomiting, and poor nutrition. #### What to Do If you have diabetes and notice an acetone smell on your breath, follow your doctor's treatment plan, which usually includes taking insulin to control blood sugar and prevent ketosis. If your ketone levels remain high despite following your treatment plan, contact your doctor immediately. If you don't have diabetes but are concerned about a persistent acetone scent, seek medical advice to rule out other potential causes. #### Emergency Situations DKA can be a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical care if you experience symptoms like fruity-scented breath, frequent urination, extreme thirst, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.