Kussmaul breathing is the primary symptom of metabolic acidosis, a type of acid imbalance in the body. Confusion and fatigue may sometimes occur along with Kussmaul breathing.

Additional symptoms that may occur with Kussmaul breathing are generally those of its cause. For people with diabetes, Kussmaul breathing usually occurs during diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Signs and symptoms of DKA that may accompany Kussmaul breathing include:

• High levels of glucose (blood sugar)
  

  

• Higher-than-normal levels of ketones in urine (ketosis)
  
  
• Polyuria (excessive urination)
  
  
• Polydipsia (excessive thirst)
  
  
• Polyphagia (excessive hunger)
  
  
• Nausea and vomiting
  
  
• Abdominal pain
  
  
• Fruity-smelling breath
  
  
• Signs of dehydration (e.g., low blood pressure, rapid heart rate)
  
  
• Changes in level of consciousness