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acanthosis
(uh-kan-THO-sis) nigricans (NIH-grih-kans):
a skin
condition characterized by darkened skin patches; common
in people whose body is not responding correctly to the
insulin that they make
in their pancreas (insulin resistance). This
skin condition is also seen in people who have pre-diabetes
or type 2 diabetes.
acarbose
(AK-er-bose):
an
oral medicine used to treat type 2
diabetes. It blocks the enzymes
that digest starches in food. The result
is a slower and lower rise in blood glucose
throughout the day, especially right after meals. Belongs
to the class of medicines called alpha-glucosidase inhibitors.
(Brand name: Precose.)
ACE
inhibitor: an oral medicine that lowers blood pressure; ACE stands for angiotensin (an-gee-oh-TEN-sin)
converting enzyme. For people with diabetes,
especially those who have protein (albumin)
in the urine, it also helps slow down kidney
damage.
acesulfame
(a-see-SUL-fame) potassium (puh-TAS-ee-um):
a dietary sweetener with no calories
and no nutritional value. Also known as acesulfame-K.
(Brand name: Sunett.)
acetohexamide
(a-see-toh-HEX-uh-myde): an oral medicine used
to treat type 2 diabetes.
It lowers blood glucose by helping the pancreas
make more insulin and by helping the body
better use the insulin it makes. Belongs to the class
of medicines called sulfonylureas. (Brand name: Dymelor.)
Actos:
see pioglitazone.
acute:
describes something that happens suddenly and for
a short time. Opposite of chronic.
adhesive
capsulitis (cap-soo-LITE-is): a condition
of the shoulder associated with diabetes that results
in pain and loss of the ability to move the shoulder in
all directions.
adult-onset
diabetes: former term for type
2 diabetes.
AGEs
(A-G-EEZ): stands
for advanced glycosylation (gly-KOH-sih-LAY-shun) endproducts.
AGEs are produced in the body when glucose
links with protein. They play a role in
damaging blood vessels, which can lead to diabetes complications.
albuminuria
(al-BYOO-mih-NOO-ree-uh): a condition in which
the urine has more than
normal amounts of a protein
called albumin. Albuminuria may be a sign of glucose
(kidney disease).
alpha
(AL-fa) cell: a type of cell in the pancreas.
Alpha cells make and release a hormone called
glucagon. The body sends a signal to the
alpha cells to make glucagon when blood glucose
falls too low. Then glucagon reaches the liver
where it tells it to release glucose into
the blood for energy.
alpha-glucosidase
(AL-fa-gloo-KOH-sih-days) inhibitor: a
class of oral medicine for type 2
diabetes that blocks enzymes
that digest starches in food. The result
is a slower and lower rise in blood glucose
throughout the day, especially right after meals. (Generic
names: acarbose and miglitol.)
Amaryl:
see glimepiride.
amylin
(AM-ih-lin): a
hormone formed by beta cells
in the pancreas. Amylin regulates the timing
of glucose release into the bloodstream
after eating by slowing the emptying of the stomach.
amyotrophy
(a-my-AH-truh-fee): a type of neuropathy
resulting in pain, weakness, and/or wasting in the muscles.
anemia
(uh-NEE-mee-uh): a condition in which the number
of red blood cells is less than normal, resulting in less
oxygen being carried to the body's cells.
angiopathy
(an-gee-AH-puh-thee): any
disease of the blood vessels
(veins, arteries, capillaries) or lymphatic vessels.
antibodies
(AN-ti-bod-eez): proteins
made by the body to protect itself from "foreign"
substances such as bacteria or viruses. People get type
1 diabetes when their bodies make antibodies that
destroy the body's own insulin-making
beta cells.
A1C:
a
test that measures a person's average blood
glucose level over the past 2 to 3 months. Hemoglobin
(HEE-mo-glo-bin) is the part of a red blood cell that
carries oxygen to the cells and sometimes joins with the
glucose in the bloodstream.
Also called hemoglobin A1C or glycosylated (gly-KOH-sih-lay-ted)
hemoglobin, the test shows the amount of glucose that
sticks to the red blood cell, which is proportional to
the amount of glucose in the blood.
ARB:
an
oral medicine that lowers blood pressure;
ARB stands for angiotensin (an-gee-oh-TEN-sin) receptor
blocker.
arteriosclerosis
(ar-TEER-ee-oh-skluh-RO-sis): hardening of
the arteries.
artery:
a large impotence that carries blood
with oxygen from the heart to all parts of the body.
aspart
(ASS-part) insulin: a rapid-acting insulin.
On average, aspart insulin starts to lower blood glucose within 10 to 20 minutes after injection.
It has its strongest effect 1 to 3 hours after injection
but keeps working for 3 to 5 hours after injection.
aspartame
(ASS-per-tame): a
dietary sweetener with almost no calories
and no nutritional value. (Brand names: Equal, NutraSweet.)
atherosclerosis
(ATH-uh-row-skluh-RO-sis): clogging, narrowing,
and hardening of the body's large arteries
and medium-sized blood vessels.
Atherosclerosis can lead to stroke,
heart attack, eye problems, and kidney
problems.
autoimmune
(AW-toh-ih-MYOON) disease: disorder of the
body's immune system in which the immune
system mistakenly attacks and destroys body tissue that
it believes to be foreign.
autonomic
(aw-toh-NOM-ik) neuropathy (ne-ROP-uh-thee):
a type of neuropathy affecting
the lungs, heart, stomach, intestines, bladder, or genitals.
Avandia:
see rosiglitazone.
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background
retinopathy (REH-tih-NOP-uh-thee): a type of
damage to the retina of the eye marked by
bleeding, fluid accumulation, and abnormal dilation of
the blood vessels. Background
retinopathy is an early stage of diabetic retinopathy.
Also called simple or nonproliferative (non-pro-LIF-er-uh-tiv)
retinopathy.
basal
rate: a
steady trickle of low levels of longer-acting insulin,
such as that used in insulin pumps.
beta
cell: a
cell that makes insulin. Beta cells are
located in the islets
of the pancreas.
biguanide
(by-GWAH-nide): a class of oral medicine used
to treat type 2 diabetes
that lowers blood glucose
by reducing the amount of glucose produced
by the liver and by helping the body respond
better to insulin. (Generic
name: metformin.)
blood
glucose: the main sugar found
in the blood and the body's main source of energy. Also
called blood sugar.
blood
glucose level: the amount of glucose
in a given amount of blood. It is noted in milligrams
in a deciliter, or mg/dL.
blood
glucose meter: a
small, portable machine used by people with diabetes to
check their blood glucose levels. After
pricking the skin with a lancet, one places
a drop of blood on a test strip in the machine. The meter
(or monitor) soon displays the blood glucose level as
a number on the meter's digital display.
blood
glucose monitoring: checking
blood glucose level on
a regular basis in order to manage diabetes. A blood
glucose meter (or blood glucose test strips
that change color when touched by a blood sample) is needed
for frequent blood glucose monitoring.
blood
pressure: the force of blood exerted on the
inside walls of blood vessels.
Blood pressure is expressed as a ratio (example: 120/80,
read as "120 over 80"). The first number is
the systolic (sis-TAH-lik) pressure, or the pressure when
the heart pushes blood out into the arteries.
The second number is the diastolic (DY-uh-STAH-lik) pressure,
or the pressure when the heart rests.
blood
sugar: see blood glucose.
blood
sugar level: see
blood glucose level.
blood
urea (yoo-REE-uh) nitrogen (NY-truh-jen) (BUN):
a waste product in the blood from the breakdown of
protein. The kidneys filter
blood to remove urea. As kidney function
decreases, the BUN levels increase.
blood
vessels: tubes
that carry blood to and from all parts of the body. The
three main types of blood vessels are arteries,
veins, and capillaries.
BMI:
see body mass index.
body
mass index (BMI): a measure used to evaluate
body weight relative to a person's height. BMI is used
to find out if a person is underweight, normal weight,
overweight, or obese.
bolus
(BOH-lus): an
extra amount of insulin taken to cover an
expected rise in blood glucose, often related
to a meal or snack.
borderline
diabetes: a former term for type
2 diabetes or impaired
glucose tolerance.
brittle
diabetes: a term used when a person's blood glucose level moves often from low to high and
from high to low.
BUN:
see blood urea nitrogen.
bunion
(BUN-yun): a bulge on the first joint of the
big toe, caused by the swelling of a fluid sac under the
skin. This spot can become red, sore, and infected.
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callus:
a small area of skin, usually on the foot, that
has become thick and hard from rubbing or pressure.
calorie:
a unit representing the energy provided by food.
carbohydrate, protein, fat,
and alcohol provide calories in the diet. Carbohydrate
and protein have 4 calories per gram, fat has 9 calories
per gram, and alcohol has 7 calories per gram.
capillary
(KAP-ih-lair-ee): the
smallest of the body's blood vessels.
Oxygen and glucose pass through capillary
walls and enter the cells. Waste products such as carbon
dioxide pass back from the cells into the blood through
capillaries.
capsaicin
(kap-SAY-ih-sin): an
ingredient in hot peppers that can be found in ointment
form for use on the skin to relieve pain from diabetic
neuropathy.
carbohydrate
(kar-boh-HY-drate): one
of the three main nutrients in food. Foods that provide
carbohydrate are starches, vegetables,
fruits, dairy products, and sugars.
carbohydrate
counting: a
method of meal planning for people with diabetes based
on counting the number of grams of carbohydrate
in food.
cardiologist
(kar-dee-AH-luh-jist): a doctor who treats
people who have heart problems.
cardiovascular
(KAR-dee-oh-VASK-yoo-ler) disease: disease
of the heart and blood vessels (arteries,
veins, and capillaries).
cataract
(KA-ter-act): clouding of the lens of the
eye.
CDE:
see certified diabetes educator.
cerebrovascular
(seh-REE-broh-VASK-yoo-ler) disease: damage
to blood vessels in the brain. Vessels
can burst and bleed or become clogged with fatty deposits.
When blood flow is interrupted, brain cells die or are
damaged, resulting in a stroke.
certified
diabetes educator (CDE): a health care professional
with expertise in diabetes education who has met eligibility
requirements and successfully completed a certification
exam.
See diabetes educator.
Charcot's
(shar-KOHZ) foot: a condition in which the
joints and soft tissue in the foot are destroyed; it
results from damage to the nerves.
cheiroarthropathy
(KY-roh-ar-THRAHP-uh-thee): see
limited joint mobility.
cheiropathy
(ky-RAH-puh-thee):
see limited joint mobility.
chlorpropamide
(klor-PROH-pah-mide): an
oral medicine used to treat type
2 diabetes. It lowers blood glucose levels by helping the pancreas
make more insulin and by helping the body
better use the insulin it makes. Belongs to the class
of medicines called sulfonylureas. (Brand name: Diabinese.)
cholesterol
(koh-LES-ter-all): a type of fat
produced by the liver and found in the
blood; it is also found in some foods. Cholesterol is
used by the body to make hormones and
build cell walls.
chronic:
describes something that is long-lasting. Opposite
of acute.
circulation:
the flow of blood through the body's blood vessels and heart.
coma:
a sleep-like state in which a person is not conscious.
May be caused by hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) or hypoglycemia (low
blood glucose) in people with diabetes.
combination
oral medicines: a
pill that includes two or more different medicines.
See Glucovance.
combination
therapy: the
use of different medicines together (oral hypoglycemic
agents or an oral hypoglycemic agent and insulin)
to manage the blood glucose levels of
people with type 2 diabetes.
complications:
harmful effects of diabetes such as damage to the
eyes, heart, blood vessels, nervous system,
teeth and gums, feet and skin, or kidneys.
Studies show that keeping blood glucose,
blood pressure, and low-density
lipoprotein cholesterol levels close to normal
can help prevent or delay these problems.
congenital
(kun-JEN-ih-tul) defects: problems or conditions
that are present at birth.
congestive
heart failure: loss of the heart's pumping
power, which causes fluids to collect in the body, especially
in the feet and lungs.
conventional
therapy: a term used in clinical trials where
one group receives treatment for diabetes in which A1C
and blood glucose levels are kept at levels
based on current practice guidelines. However, the goal
is not to keep blood glucose levels as close to normal
as possible, as is done in intensive therapy.
Conventional therapy includes use of medication, meal
planning, and exercise, along with regular visits to
health care providers.
coronary
artery disease: see coronary
heart disease.
coronary
(KOR-uh-ner-ee) heart disease: heart disease
caused by narrowing of the arteries that
supply blood to the heart. If the blood supply is cut
off the result is a heart attack.
C-peptide
(see-peptide): "Connecting
peptide," a substance the pancreas
releases into the bloodstream in equal amounts to insulin.
A test of C-peptide levels shows how much insulin
the body is making.
creatinine
(kree-AT-ih-nin): a waste product from protein
in the diet and from the muscles of the body. Creatinine
is removed from the body by the kidneys;
as kidney disease progresses, the level of creatinine
in the blood increases.
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dawn
phenomenon (feh-NAH-meh-nun): the
early-morning (4 a.m. to 8 a.m.) rise in blood glucose level.
DCCT:
see Diabetes Control and Complications
Trial.
dehydration
(dee-hy-DRAY-shun): the loss of too much body
fluid through frequent urinating, sweating, diarrhea,
or vomiting.
dermopathy
(dur-MAH-puh-thee): disease of the skin.
desensitization
(dee-sens-ih-tiz-A-shun): a way to reduce or
stop a response such as an allergic reaction to something.
For example, if someone has an allergic reaction to something,
the doctor gives the person a very small amount of the
substance at first to increase one's tolerance. Over a
period of time, larger doses are given until the person
is taking the full dose. This is one way to help the body
get used to the full dose and to prevent the allergic
reaction.
dextrose
(DECKS-trohss), also called glucose:
simple
sugar found in blood that serves as the
body's main source of energy.
DiaBeta:
see glyburide.
diabetes:
see diabetes mellitus.
Diabetes
Control and Complications Trial (DCCT): a study
by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and
Kidney Diseases, conducted from 1983 to 1993 in people
with type 1 diabetes. The study showed that
intensive therapy compared to conventional
therapy significantly helped prevent or delay
diabetes complications. Intensive therapy
included multiple daily insulin injections
or the use of an insulin pump with multiple
blood glucose readings each day. Complications
followed in the study included diabetic retinopathy,
neuropathy, and glucose.
diabetes
educator: a health care professional who teaches
people who have diabetes how to manage their diabetes.
Some diabetes educators are certified diabetes educators
(CDEs). Diabetes educators are found in hospitals, physician
offices, managed care organizations, home health care,
and other settings.
diabetes
insipidus (in-SIP-ih-dus): a
condition characterized by frequent and heavy urination,
excessive thirst, and an overall feeling of weakness.
This condition may be caused by a defect in the pituitary
gland or in the kidney. In diabetes insipidus,
blood glucose levels are normal.
diabetes
mellitus (MELL-ih-tus): a condition characterized
by hyperglycemia resulting from the body's
inability to use blood glucose for energy.
In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas
no longer makes insulin and therefore blood
glucose cannot enter the cells to be used for energy.
In type 2 diabetes, either
the pancreas does not make enough insulin or the body
is unable to use insulin correctly.
Diabetes
Prevention Program (DPP): a study by the National
Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
conducted from 1998 to 2001 in people at high risk for
type 2 diabetes. All study
participants had impaired glucose
tolerance, also called pre-diabetes,
and were overweight.
The study showed that people who lost 5 to 7 percent of
their body weight through a low-fat, low-calorie diet
and moderate exercise (usually walking for 30 minutes
5 days a week) reduced their risk of getting type 2 diabetes
by 58 percent. Participants who received treatment with
the oral diabetes drug metformin reduced
their risk of getting type 2 diabetes by 31 percent.
diabetic
diarrhea (dy-uh-REE-uh): loose stools, fecal
incontinence, or both that result from an overgrowth of
bacteria in the small intestine and diabetic neuropathy
in the intestines. This nerve damage can also result in
constipation.
diabetic
eye disease: see diabetic
retinopathy.
diabetic
ketoacidosis (KEY-toe-ass-ih-DOH-sis) (DKA):
an
emergency condition in which extremely high blood glucose levels, along with a severe lack of insulin,
result in the breakdown of body fat for
energy and an accumulation of ketones in
the blood and urine. Signs of DKA are nausea
and vomiting, stomach pain, fruity breath odor, and rapid
breathing. Untreated DKA can lead to coma
and death.
diabetic
myelopathy (my-eh-LAH-puh-thee): damage
to the spinal cord found in some people with diabetes.
diabetic
nephropathy: see nephropathy.
diabetic
neuropathy: see
neuropathy.
diabetic
retinopathy (REH-tih-NOP-uh-thee): diabetic
eye disease; damage to the small blood vessels
in the retina. Loss of vision may result.
diabetogenic
(DY-uh-beh-toh-JEN-ic): causing
diabetes. For example, some drugs cause blood glucose levels to rise, resulting in diabetes.
diabetologist
(DY-uh-beh-TAH-luh-jist): a
doctor who specializes in treating people who have diabetes.
Diabinese:
see chlorpropamide.
diagnosis
(DY-ug-NO-sis): the
determination of a disease from its signs and symptoms.
dialysis
(dy-AL-ih-sis): the process of cleaning wastes
from the blood artificially. This job is normally done
by the kidneys. If the kidneys fail, the
blood must be cleaned artificially with special equipment.
The two major forms of dialysis are hemodialysis and peritoneal
dialysis.
| • |
hemodialysis (HE-mo-dy-AL-ih-sis):
the use of a machine to clean wastes from the blood
after the kidneys have failed. The blood travels
through tubes to a dialyzer (DY-uh-LY-zur), a machine
that removes wastes and extra fluid. The cleaned
blood then goes back into the body. |
| • |
peritoneal
(PEH-rih-tuh-NEE-ul) dialysis: cleaning the
blood by using the lining of the abdomen as a filter.
A cleansing solution called dialysate (dy-AL-ih-sate)
is infused from a bag into the abdomen. Fluids and
wastes flow through the lining of the belly and
remain "trapped" in the dialysate. The
dialysate is then drained from the belly, removing
the extra fluids and wastes from the body. |
dietitian
(DY-eh-TIH-shun): a health care professional
who advises people about meal planning, weight control,
and diabetes management. A registered dietitian (RD) has
more training.
dilated
(DY-lay-ted) eye exam: a test done by an eye
care specialist in which the pupil (the black center)
of the eye is temporarily enlarged with eyedrops to allow
the specialist to see the inside of the eye more easily.
DKA:
see diabetic ketoacidosis.
D-phenylalanine
(dee-fen-nel-AL-ah-neen) derivative: a
class of oral medicine for type 2
diabetes that lowers blood
glucose levels by helping the pancreas
make more insulin right
after meals. (Generic name: nateglinide.)
DPP:
see Diabetes Prevention
Program.
Dupuytren's
(doo-PWEE-trenz) contracture (kon-TRACK-chur):
a condition associated with diabetes in which the
fingers and the palm of the hand thicken and shorten,
causing the fingers to curve inward.
Dymelor:
see acetohexamide.
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to Top
edema
(eh-DEE-muh):
swelling caused by excess fluid in the body.
electromyography
(ee-LEK-troh-my-AH-gruh-fee) (EMG): a test
used to detect nerve function. It measures the electrical
activity generated by muscles.
EMG:
see electromyography.
endocrine
(EN-doh-krin) gland: group of specialized
cells that release hormones into the blood.
For example, the islets
in the pancreas, which secrete insulin,
are endocrine glands.
endocrinologist
(EN-doh-krih-NAH-luh-jist): a doctor who
treats people who have endocrine gland
problems such as diabetes.
end-stage
renal disease (ESRD): see
kidney failure.
enzyme
(EN-zime): protein
made by the body that brings about a chemical reaction,
for example, the enzymes produced by the gut to aid
digestion.
erectile
dysfunction: see
impotence.
euglycemia
(you-gly-SEEM-ee-uh): a
normal level of glucose in the blood.
exchange
lists: one
of several approaches for diabetes meal planning. Foods
are categorized into three groups based on their nutritional
content. Lists provide the serving sizes for carbohydrates,
meat and meat alternatives, and fats.
These lists allow for substitution for different groups
to keep the nutritional content fixed.
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fasting
blood glucose test: a
check of a person's blood glucose level
after the person has not eaten for 8 to 12 hours (usually
overnight). This test is used to diagnose pre-diabetes
and diabetes. It is also used to monitor people with diabetes.
fat:
1. One of the three main nutrients in food. Foods
that provide fat are butter, margarine, salad dressing,
oil, nuts, meat, poultry, fish, and some dairy products.
2. Excess calories are stored as body fat,
providing the body with a reserve supply of energy and
other functions.
50/50
insulin: premixed insulin that is 50
percent intermediate-acting (NPH) insulin
and 50 percent short-acting (regular) insulin.
fluorescein
(fluh-RESS-ee-in) angiography (an-gee-AH-grah-fee):
a test to examine blood vessels in the
eye; done by injecting dye into an arm vein
and then taking photos as the dye goes through the eye's
blood vessels.
fructosamine
(frook-TOH-sah-meen) test: measures the number
of blood glucose molecules
(MAH-leh-kyools) linked to protein
molecules in the blood. The test provides information
on the average blood glucose level
for the past 3 weeks.
fructose
(FROOK-tohss): a sugar that occurs
naturally in fruits and honey. Fructose has 4 calories
per gram.
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gangrene
(GANG-green): the
death of body tissue, most often caused by a lack of blood
flow and infection. It can lead to amputation.
gastroparesis
(gas-tro-puh-REE-sis): a
form of neuropathy that
affects the stomach. Digestion of food may be incomplete
or delayed, resulting in nausea, vomiting, or bloating,
making blood glucose control difficult.
gestational
(jes-TAY-shun-ul) diabetes mellitus (MELL-ih-tus) (GDM):
a type of diabetes mellitus
that develops only during pregnancy and usually disappears
upon delivery, but increases the risk that the mother
will develop diabetes later. GDM is managed with meal
planning, activity, and, in some cases, insulin.
gingivitis
(JIN-jih-VY-tis): a condition of the gums characterized
by inflammation and bleeding.
gland:
a group of cells that secrete substances. Endocrine
glands secrete hormones. Exocrine glands
secrete salt, enzymes, and water.
glargine
(GLAR-jeen) insulin: very-long-acting
insulin. On average, glargine insulin starts to
lower blood glucose levels within 1 hour
after injection and keeps working evenly
for 24 hours after injection.
glaucoma
(glaw-KOH-muh): an
increase in fluid pressure inside the eye that may lead
to loss of vision.
glimepiride
(gly-MEH-per-ide): an
oral medicine used to treat type 2
diabetes. It lowers blood glucose
by helping the pancreas make more insulin
and by helping the body better use the insulin it makes.
Belongs to the class of medicines called sulfonylureas.
(Brand name: Amaryl.)
glipizide
(GLIH-pih-zide): an
oral medicine used to treat type 2
diabetes. It lowers blood glucose
by helping the pancreas make more insulin
and by helping the body better use the insulin it makes.
Belongs to the class of medicines called sulfonylureas.
(Brand names: Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL.)
glomerular
(glo-MEHR-yoo-lur) filtration rate: measure
of the kidney's ability to filter
and remove waste products.
glomeruli
(glo-MEHR-yoo-lie): plural of glomerulus.
glomerulus
(glo-MEHR-yoo-lus): a
tiny set of looping blood vessels in the
kidney where the blood is filtered and waste
products are removed.
glucagon
(GLOO-kah-gahn): a
hormone produced by the alpha cells
in the pancreas. It raises blood glucose.
An injectable form of glucagon, available by prescription,
may be used to treat severe hypoglycemia.
Glucophage,
Glucophage XR: see metformin.
glucose:
one of the simplest forms of sugar.
glucose
tablets: chewable tablets made of pure glucose
used for treating hypoglycemia.
glucose
tolerance test: see
oral glucose tolerance test.
Glucotrol,
Glucotrol XL: see
glipizide.
Glucovance:
an oral medicine used to treat type
2 diabetes. It is a combination of glyburide
and metformin.
glyburide
(GLY-buh-ride): an
oral medicine used to treat type 2
diabetes. It lowers blood glucose
by helping the pancreas make more insulin
and by helping the body better use the insulin it makes.
Belongs to the class of medicines called sulfonylureas.
(Brand names: DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase; ingredient
in Glucovance.)
glycemic
(gly-SEE-mik) index: a ranking of carbohydrate-containing
foods, based on the food's effect on blood glucose
compared with a standard reference food.
glycogen
(GLY-koh-jen): the
form of glucose found in the liver
and muscles.
glycosuria
(gly-koh-SOOR-ee-ah): the presence of glucose
in the urine.
glycosylated
hemoglobin: see
A1C.
Glynase
PresTab: see glyburide.
Glyset:
see miglitol.
gram:
a unit of weight in the metric system. An ounce equals
28 grams. In some meal plans for people
with diabetes, the suggested amounts of food are given
in grams.
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HDL
cholesterol (kuh-LESS-tuh-rawl): stands
for high-density-lipoprotein (LIP-oh-PRO-teen) cholesterol:
a fat found in the blood that takes extra
cholesterol from the
blood to the liver for removal. Sometimes
called "good" cholesterol.
hemodialysis:
see dialysis.
hemoglobin
A1C test: see
A1C.
heredity:
the passing of a trait from parent to child.
HHNS:
see hyperosmolar hyperglycemic
nonketotic syndrome.
high
blood glucose: see hyperglycemia.
high
blood pressure: see hypertension.
high-density
lipoprotein cholesterol: see HDL
cholesterol.
HLA:
see human leukocyte antigens.
home
glucose monitor: see blood
glucose meter.
honeymoon
phase: temporary
remission of hyperglycemia
that occurs in some people newly diagnosed with type
1 diabetes, when some insulin
secretion resumes for a short time, usually a few months,
before stopping again.
hormone:
a chemical produced in one part of the body and
released into the blood to trigger or regulate particular
functions of the body. For example, insulin
is a hormone made in the pancreas that
tells other cells when to use glucose
for energy. Synthetic hormones, made for use as medicines,
can be the same or different from those made in the
body.
human
leukocyte antigens (HLA): proteins
located on the surface of the cell that help the immune system identify the cell either as one belonging
to the body or as one from outside the body. Some patterns
of these proteins may mean increased risk of developing
type 1 diabetes.
hyperglycemia
(HY-per-gly-SEE-mee-uh):excessive
blood glucose. Fasting hyperglycemia is
blood glucose above a desirable level after a person
has fasted for at least 8 hours. Postprandial hyperglycemia
is blood glucose above a desirable level 1 to 2 hours
after a person has eaten.
hyperinsulinemia
(HY-per-IN-suh-lih-NEE-mee-uh): a condition
in which the level of insulin in the blood
is higher than normal. Caused by overproduction of insulin
by the body. Related to insulin resistance.
hyperlipidemia
(HY-per-li-pih-DEE-mee-uh): higher
than normal fat and cholesterol
levels in the blood.
hyperosmolar
(HY-per-oz-MOH-lur) hyperglycemic (HY-per-gly-SEE-mik)
nonketotic (non-kee-TAH-tik) syndrome (HHNS):
an emergency condition in which one's blood glucose level is very high and ketones
are not present in the blood or urine.
If HHNS is not treated, it can lead to coma
or death.
hypertension
(HY-per-TEN-shun): a condition present when
blood flows through the blood vessels
with a force greater than normal. Also called high blood pressure. Hypertension can strain the heart,
damage blood vessels, and increase the risk of heart
attack, stroke, kidney problems,
and death.
hypoglycemia
(hy-po-gly-SEE-mee-uh): a condition that
occurs when one's blood glucose is lower
than normal, usually less than 70 mg/dL.
Signs include hunger, nervousness, shakiness, perspiration,
dizziness or light-headedness, sleepiness, and confusion.
If left untreated, hypoglycemia may lead to unconsciousness.
Hypoglycemia is treated by consuming a carbohydrate-rich
food such as a glucose tablet or juice.
It may also be treated with an injection
of glucagon if the person is unconscious
or unable to swallow. Also called an insulin reaction.
hypoglycemia
unawareness (un-uh-WARE-ness): a state in
which a person does not feel or recognize the symptoms
of hypoglycemia. People who have frequent
episodes of hypoglycemia may no longer experience the
warning signs of it.
hypotension
(hy-poh-TEN-shun): low blood pressure
or a sudden drop in blood pressure. Hypotension may
occur when a person rises quickly from a sitting or
reclining position, causing dizziness or fainting.
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IDDM
(insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus): former
term for type 1 diabetes.
immune
(ih-MYOON) system: the body's system for protecting
itself from viruses and bacteria or any "foreign"
substances.
immunosuppressant
(ih-MYOON-oh-suh-PRESS-unt): a drug that suppresses
the natural immune responses. Immunosuppressants are given
to transplant patients to prevent organ rejection or to
patients with autoimmune diseases.
impaired
fasting glucose (IFG): a condition in which
a blood glucose test, taken after an 8-
to 12-hour fast, shows a level of glucose higher than
normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes.
IFG, also called pre-diabetes, is a level
of 100 mg/dL to 125 mg/dL. Most people with
pre-diabetes are at increased risk for developing type
2 diabetes.
impaired
glucose tolerance (IGT): a condition in which
blood glucose levels are
higher than normal but are not high enough for a diagnosis
of diabetes. IGT, also called pre-diabetes,
is a level of 140 mg/dL
to 199 mg/dL 2 hours after the start of an oral
glucose tolerance test. Most people with pre-diabetes
are at increased risk for developing type
2 diabetes. Other names for IGT that are no
longer used are "borderline," "subclinical,"
"chemical," or "latent" diabetes.
implantable
(im-PLAN-tuh-bull) insulin pump: a
small pump placed inside the body to deliver insulin
in response to remote-control commands from the user.
impotence
(IM-po-tents): the
inability to get or maintain an erection for sexual activity.
Also called erectile (ee-REK-tile) dysfunction (dis-FUNK-shun).
incidence
(IN-sih-dints): a measure of how often a disease
occurs; the number of new cases of a disease among a certain
group of people for a certain period of time.
incontinence
(in-KON-tih-nents): loss of bladder or bowel
control; the accidiabetic loss of urine
or feces.
inhaled
insulin: an
experimental treatment for taking insulin
using a portable device that allows a person to breathe
in insulin.
injection
(in-JEK-shun): inserting
liquid medication or nutrients into the body with a syringe.
A person with diabetes may use short needles or pinch
the skin and inject at an angle to avoid an intramuscular
injection of insulin.
injection
site rotation: changing
the places on the body where insulin is
injected. Rotation prevents the formation of lipodystrophies.
injection
sites: places
on the body where insulin is usually injected.
insulin:
a hormone that helps the body use glucose
for energy. The beta cells of the pancreas
make insulin. When the body cannot make enough insulin,
insulin is taken by injection or through
use of an insulin pump.
insulin
adjustment: a change in the amount of insulin
a person with diabetes takes based on factors such as
meal planning, activity, and blood glucose levels.
insulin-dependent
diabetes mellitus (IDDM): former term for type 1 diabetes.
insulinoma
(IN-suh-lih-NOH-mah): a tumor of the beta cells in the pancreas. An insulinoma
may cause the body to make extra insulin,
leading to hypoglycemia.
insulin
pen: a device for injecting insulin that looks
like a fountain pen and holds replaceable cartridges of
insulin. Also available in disposable form.
insulin
pump: an insulin-delivering device about the
size of a deck of cards that can be worn on a belt or
kept in a pocket. An insulin pump connects to narrow,
flexible plastic tubing that ends with a needle inserted
just under the skin. Users set the pump to give a steady
trickle or basal amount of insulin continuously
throughout the day. Pumps release bolus
doses of insulin (several units at a time) at meals and
at times when blood glucose is too high,
based on programming done by the user.
insulin
reaction: when the level of glucose
in the blood is too low (at or below 70 mg/dL).
Also known as hypoglycemia.
insulin
receptors: areas
on the outer part of a cell that allow the cell to bind
with insulin in the blood. When the cell and insulin bind,
the cell can take glucose from the blood
and use it for energy.
insulin
resistance: the
body's inability to respond to and use the insulin it
produces. Insulin resistance may be linked to obesity,
hypertension, and high levels of fat
in the blood.
insulin
shock: see hypoglycemia.
intensive
therapy: a treatment for diabetes in which
blood glucose is kept
as close to normal as possible through frequent injections
or use of an insulin pump;
meal planning; adjustment of medicines; and exercise based
on blood glucose test results and frequent contact with
a person's health care team.
intermediate-acting
insulin: a type of insulin that starts to lower
blood glucose within 1
to 2 hours after injection
and has its strongest effect 6 to 12 hours after injection,
depending on the type used. See lente
insulin and NPH insulin.
intermittent
(IN-ter-MIT-ent) claudication (CLAW-dih-KAY-shun): pain
that comes and goes in the muscles of the leg. This pain
results from a lack of blood supply to the legs and usually
happens when walking or exercising.
intramuscular
(in-trah-MUS-kyoo-lar) injection: inserting
liquid medication into a muscle with a syringe.
Glucagon may be given by subcutaneous
or intramuscular injection for hypoglycemia.
islet
(EYE-let) cell autoantibodies (aw-toe-AN-ti-bod-eez) (ICA):
proteins
found in the blood of people newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. They are also found in people who
may be developing type 1 diabetes. The presence of ICA
indicates that the body's immune system
has been damaging beta cells in the pancreas.
islet
transplantation: moving
the islets from a donor
pancreas into a person whose pancreas has
stopped producing insulin.
beta cells in the islets make the insulin
that the body needs for using blood glucose.
islets:
groups of cells located in the pancreas
that make hormones that help the body break
down and use food. For example, alpha cells
make glucagon and beta cells
make insulin. Also called islets of Langerhans
(LANG-er-hahns).
islets
of Langerhans: see islets.
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jet
injector (in-JEK-tur): a
device that uses high pressure instead of a needle to
propel insulin through the skin and into
the body.
juvenile
diabetes: former term for insulin-dependent
diabetes mellitus (IDDM), or type 1 diabetes.
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ketoacidosis:
see diabetic ketoacidosis.
ketone:
a chemical produced when there is a shortage
of insulin in the blood
and the body breaks down body fat for energy.
High levels of ketones can lead to diabetic
ketoacidosis and coma. Sometimes
referred to as ketone bodies.
ketonuria
(key-toe-NUH-ree-ah): a condition occurring
when ketones are present
in the urine, a warning
sign of diabetic ketoacidosis.
ketosis
(ke-TOE-sis): a ketone
buildup in the body that may lead to diabetic
ketoacidosis. Signs of ketosis are nausea,
vomiting, and stomach pain.
kidney
disease: see
glucose.
kidney
failure: a chronic condition
in which the body retains fluid and harmful wastes build
up because the kidneys no longer work properly.
A person with kidney failure needs dialysis
or a kidney transplant. Also called end-stage renal (REE-nul)
disease or ESRD.
kidneys:
the two bean-shaped organs that filter wastes from
the blood and form urine. The kidneys are
located near the middle of the back. They send urine to
the bladder.
Kussmaul
(KOOS-mall) breathing: the
rapid, deep, and labored breathing of people who have
diabetic ketoacidosis.
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LADA:
see latent autoimmune diabetes
in adults.
lancet:
a spring-loaded device used to prick the skin with
a small needle to obtain a drop of blood for blood
glucose monitoring.
laser
surgery treatment: a type of therapy that uses
a strong beam of light to treat a damaged area. The beam
of light is called a laser. A laser is sometimes used
to seal blood vessels in the eye of a person with diabetes.
See photocoagulation.
latent
autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA): a condition
in which type 1 diabetes develops in adults.
LDL
cholesterol (kuh-LESS-tuh-rawl), stands for
low-density lipoprotein (LIP-oh-PRO-teen) cholesterol:a
fat found in the blood that takes cholesterol
around the body to where it is needed for cell repair
and also deposits it on the inside of artery
walls. Sometimes called "bad" cholesterol.
lente
(LEN-tay) insulin: an
intermediate-acting insulin. On average,
lente insulin starts to lower blood glucose levels
within 1 to 2 hours after injection. It
has its strongest effect 8 to 12 hours after injection
but keeps working for 18 to 24 hours after injection.
Also called L insulin.
limited
joint mobility: a condition in which the joints
swell and the skin of the hand becomes thick, tight, and
waxy, making the joints less ableto move. It may affect
the fingers and arms as well as other joints in the body.
lipid
(LIP-id): a
term for fat in the body. Lipids can be
broken down by the body and used for energy.
lipid
profile: a blood test that measures total cholesterol,
triglycerides, and HDL cholesterol.
LDL cholesterol is then calculated from
the results. A lipid profile is one measure of a person's
risk of cardiovascular disease.
lipoatrophy
(LIP-oh-AT-ruh-fee): loss
of fat under the skin resulting in small dents. Lipoatrophy
may be caused by repeated injections of
insulin in the same spot.
lipodystrophy
(LIP-oh-DIH-struh-fee): defect
in the breaking down or building up of fat below the surface
of the skin, resulting in lumps or small dents in the
skin surface. (See lipohypertrophy
or lipoatrophy.) Lipodystrophy
may be caused by repeated injections of
insulin in the same spot.
lipohypertrophy
(LIP-oh-hy-PER-truh-fee): buildup
of fat below the surface of the skin, causing lumps. Lipohypertrophy
may be caused by repeated injections of
insulin in the same spot.
lispro
(LYZ-proh) insulin: a rapid-acting insulin.
On average, lispro insulin starts to lower blood glucose within 5 minutes after injection.
It has its strongest effect 30 minutes to 1 hour after
injection but keeps working for 3 hours after injection.
liver:
an organ in the body that changes food into energy,
removes alcohol and poisons from the blood, and makes
bile, a substance that breaks down fats
and helps rid the body of wastes.
long-acting
insulin: a type of insulin that starts to lower
blood glucose within 4
to 6 hours after injection
and has its strongest effect 10 to 18 hours after injection.
See ultralente insulin.
low
blood sugar: see
hypoglycemia.
low-density
lipoprotein cholesterol: see LDL
cholesterol.
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macrosomia
(mack-roh-SOH-mee-ah): abnormally large; in
diabetes, refers to abnormally large babies that may be
born to women with diabetes.
macrovascular
(mack-roh-VASK-yoo-ler) disease: disease
of the large blood vessels, such as those
found in the heart. Lipids and blood clots
build up in the large blood vessels and can cause atherosclerosis,
coronary heart disease, stroke,
and peripheral vascular disease.
macula
(MACK-yoo-la): the
part of the retina in the eye used for reading
and seeing fine detail.
macular
(MACK-yoo-lur) edema (eh-DEE-mah): swelling
of the macula.
maturity-onset
diabetes of the young (MODY): a kind of type
2 diabetes that accounts for 1 to 5 percent
of people with diabetes. Of the six forms identified,
each is caused by a defect in a single gene.
meglitinide
(meh-GLIH-tin-ide): a class of oral medicine
for type 2 diabetes that
lowers blood glucose by
helping the pancreas make
more insulin right after
meals. (Generic name: repaglinide.)
metabolic
syndrome: the tendency of several conditions
to occur together, including obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes or pre-diabetes,
hypertension, and high lipids.
metabolism:
the term for the way cells chemically change
food so that it can be used to store or use energy and
make the proteins, fats, and
sugars needed by the body.
metformin
(met-FOR-min): an
oral medicine used to treat type 2
diabetes. It lowers blood glucose
by reducing the amount of glucose produced
by the liver and helping the body respond
better to the insulin made in the pancreas.
Belongs to the class of medicines called biguanides. (Brand
names: Glucophage, Glucophage XR; an ingredient in Glucovance.)
mg/dL:
milligrams (MILL-ih-grams) per deciliter (DESS-ih-lee-tur),
a unit of measure that shows the concentration of a substance
in a specific amount of fluid. In the United States, blood glucose test results are reported as mg/dL. Medical
journals and other countries use millimoles per liter
(mmol/L). To convert to mg/dL from mmol/L,
multiply mmol/L by 18. Example: 10 mmol/L × 18 = 180
mg/dL.
microalbumin
(MY-kro-al-BYOO-min): small amounts of the
proteincalled albumin in the urine
detectable with a special lab test.
microaneurysm
(MY-kro-AN-yeh-rizm): a
small swelling that forms on the side of tiny blood vessels. These small swellings may break and allow
blood to leak into nearby tissue. People with diabetes
may get microaneurysms in the retina of
the eye.
Micronase:
see glyburide.
microvascular
(MY-kro-VASK-yoo-ler) disease: disease
of the smallest blood vessels, such as those
found in the eyes, nerves, and kidneys.
The walls of the vessels become abnormally thick but weak.
Then they bleed, leak protein, and slow
the flow of blood to the cells.
miglitol
(MIG-lih-tall): an
oral medicine used to treat type 2
diabetes. It blocks the enzymes
that digest starches in food. The result
is a slower and lower rise in blood glucose
throughout the day, especially right after meals. Belongs
to the class of medicines called alpha-glucosidase inhibitors.
(Brand name: Glyset.)
mixed
dose: a combination of two types of insulin
in one injection. Usually
a rapid- or short-acting insulin
is combined with a longer acting insulin (such as NPH
insulin) to provide both short-term and long-term
control of blood glucose levels.
mmol/L:
millimoles per liter, a unit of measure that shows
the concentration of a substance in a specific amount
of fluid. In most of the world, except for the United
States, blood glucose test results are reported
as mmol/L. In the United States, milligrams per deciliter
(mg/dL) is used. To convert to mmol/L from
mg/dL, divide mg/dL by 18. Example: 180 mg/dL ÷ 18
= 10 mmol/L.
MODY:
see maturity-onset diabetes of
the young.
monitor:
see blood glucose meter.
monofilament:
a short piece of nylon, like a hairbrush bristle,
mounted on a wand. To check sensitivity of the nerves
in the foot, the doctor touches the filament to the bottom
of the foot.
mononeuropathy
(MAH-noh-ne-ROP-uh-thee): neuropathy
affecting a single nerve.
myocardial
(my-oh-KAR-dee-ul) infarction (in-FARK-shun):
an
interruption in the blood supply to the heart because
of narrowed or blocked blood vessels. Also
called a heart attack.
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nateglinide
(neh-TEH-glin-ide): an oral medicine used to
treat type 2 diabetes.
It lowers blood glucose levels by helping
the pancreas make more insulin
right after meals. Belongs to the class of medicines called
D-phenylalanine derivatives. (Brand name: Starlix.)
necrobiosis
(NEK-roh-by-OH-sis) lipoidica (lih-POY-dik-ah) diabeticorum
(DY-uh-bet-ih-KOR-um): a skin condition usually
on the lower part of the legs. Lesions can be small or
extend over a large area. They are usually raised, yellow,
and waxy in appearance and often have a purple border.
neovascularization
(NEE-oh-VASK-yoo-ler-ih-ZAY-shun): the
growth of new, small blood vessels. In the
retina, this may lead to loss of vision
or blindness.
nephrologist
(neh-FRAH-luh-jist): a
doctor who treats people who have kidney
problems.
nephropathy
(neh-FROP-uh-thee): disease
of the kidneys. Hyperglycemia
and hypertension can damage the kidneys'
glomeruli. When the kidneys are damaged,
protein leaks out of the kidneys into the
urine. Damaged kidneys can no longer remove waste and
extra fluids from the bloodstream.
nerve
conduction studies: tests
used to measure for nerve damage; one way to diagnose
neuropathy.
nerve
disease: see
neuropathy.
neurologist
(ne-RAH-luh-jist): a doctor who specializes
in problems of the nervous system, such as neuropathy.
neuropathy
(ne-ROP-uh-thee): disease of the nervous system.
The three major forms in people with diabetes are peripheral
neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy,
and mononeuropathy. The most common form
is peripheral neuropathy, which affects mainly the legs
and feet.
NIDDM:
see noninsulin-dependent diabetes
mellitus.
noninsulin-dependent
diabetes mellitus (NIDDM): former term for
type 2 diabetes.
noninvasive
(NON-in-VAY-siv) blood glucose monitoring:
measuring blood glucose without pricking
the finger to obtain a blood sample.
NPH
insulin: an
intermediate-acting insulin; NPH stands
for neutral protamine Hagedorn. On average, NPH insulin
starts to lower blood glucose within 1 to
2 hours after injection. It has its strongest
effect 6 to 10 hours after injection but keeps working
about 10 hours after injection. Also called N insulin.
nutritionist
(noo-TRIH-shuh-nist): a
person with training in nutrition; may or may not have
specialized training and qualifications. See dietitian.
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obesity:
a condition in which a greater than normal amount
of fat is in the body; more severe than overweight;
having a body mass index of 30 or more.
obstetrician
(ob-steh-TRIH-shun): a doctor who treats pregnant
women and delivers babies.
OGTT:
see oral glucose tolerance test.
ophthalmologist
(AHF-thal-MAH-luh-jist): a medical doctor who
diagnoses and treats all eye diseases and eye disorders.
Opthalmologists can also prescribe glasses and contact
lenses.
optician
(ahp-TI-shun): a health care professional who
dispenses glasses and lenses. An optician also makes and
fits contact lenses.
optometrist
(ahp-TAH-meh-trist): a primary eye care provider
who prescribes glasses and contact lenses. Optometrists
can diagnose and treat certain eye conditions and diseases.
oral
glucose tolerance test (OGTT): a
test to diagnose pre-diabetes and diabetes.
The oral glucose tolerance test is given by a health care
professional after an overnight fast. A blood sample is
taken, then the patient drinks a high-glucose
beverage. Blood samples are taken at intervals for 2 to
3 hours. Test results are compared with a standard and
show how the body uses glucose over time.
oral
hypoglycemic (hy-po-gly-SEE-mik) agents: medicines
taken by mouth by people with type
2 diabetes to keep blood glucose levels
as close to normal as possible. Classes of oral hypoglycemic
agents are alpha-glucosidase inhibitors,
biguanides, D-phenylalanine derivatives,
meglitinides, sulfonylureas,
and thiazolidinediones.
Orinase:
see tolbutamide.
overweight:
an above-normal body weight; having a body mass
index of 25 to 29.9.
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pancreas
(PAN-kree-us): an organ that makes insulin
and enzymes for digestion. The pancreas
is located behind the lower part of the stomach and is
about the size of a hand.
pancreas
transplantation: surgical procedure to take
a healthy whole or partial pancreas from a donor and place
it into a person with diabetes.
pediatric
(pee-dee-AT-rik) endocrinologist (en-doh-krih-NAH-luh-jist):
a doctor who treats children who have endocrine
gland problems such as diabetes.
pedorthist
(ped-OR-thist): a health care professional
who specializes in fitting shoes for people with disabilities
or deformities. A pedorthist can custom-make shoes or
orthotics (special inserts for shoes).
periodontal
(PER-ee-oh-DON-tul) disease: disease
of the gums.
periodontist
(PER-ee-oh-DON-tist): a Doctor who specializes
in treating people who have gum diseases.
peripheral
(puh-RIF-uh-rul) neuropathy (ne-ROP-uh-thee): nerve
damage that affects the feet, legs, or hands. Peripheral
neuropathy causes pain, numbness, or a tingling feeling.
peripheral
(puh-RIF-uh-rul) vascular (VAS-kyoo-ler) disease (PVD):
a disease of the large blood vessels
of the arms, legs, and feet. PVD may occur when major
blood vessels in these areas are blocked and do not receive
enough blood. The signs of PVD are aching pains and slow-healing
foot sores.
peritoneal
dialysis: see dialysis.
pharmacist
(FAR-mah-sist): a health care professional
who prepares and distributes medicine to people. Pharmacists
also give information on medicines.
photocoagulation
(FOH-toh-koh-ag-yoo-LAY-shun): a treatment
for diabetic retinopathy. A strong beam
of light (laser) is used to seal off bleeding blood vessels in the eye and to burn away extra blood
vessels that should not have grown there.
pioglitazone
(py-oh-GLIT-uh-zone): an
oral medicine used to treat type 2
diabetes. It helps insulin take
glucose from the blood into the cells for
energy by making cells more sensitive to insulin. Belongs
to the class of medicines called thiazolidinediones. (Brand
name: Actos.)
podiatrist
(puh-DY-uh-trist): a doctor who treats people
who have foot problems. Podiatrists also help people keep
their feet healthy by providing regular foot examinations
and treatment.
podiatry
(puh-DY-uh-tree): the
care and treatment of feet.
point
system: a meal planning system that uses points
to rate the caloric content of foods.
polydipsia
(pah-lee-DIP-see-uh): excessive thirst; may
be a sign of diabetes.
polyphagia
(pah-lee-FAY-jee-ah): excessive
hunger; may be a sign of diabetes.
polyuria
(pah-lee-YOOR-ee-ah): excessive urination;
may be a sign of diabetes.
postprandial
(post-PRAN-dee-ul) blood glucose: the blood glucose level taken 1 to 2 hours after eating.
Prandin:
see repaglinide.
Precose:
see acarbose.
pre-diabetes:
a condition in which blood
glucose levels are higher than normal but
are not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. People
with pre-diabetes are at increased risk for developing
type 2 diabetes and for
heart disease and stroke.
Other names for pre-diabetes are impaired
glucose tolerance and impaired fasting
glucose.
premixed
insulin: a commercially produced combination
of two different types of insulin.
See 50/50 insulin and
70/30 insulin.
preprandial
(pree-PRAN-dee-ul) blood glucose: the
blood glucose level taken before eating.
prevalence:
the number of people in a given group or population
who are reported to have a disease.
proinsulin
(proh-IN-suh-lin): the substance made first
in the pancreas and then broken into several
pieces to become insulin.
proliferative
(pro-LIH-fur-ah-tiv) retinopathy (REH-tih-NOP-uh-thee):
a condition in which fragile new blood vessels
grow along the retina and in the vitreous
humor of the eye.
prosthesis
(prahs-THEE-sis): a
man-made substitute for a missing body part such as an
arm or a leg.
protein
(PRO-teen): 1.
One of the three main nutrients in food. Foods that provide
protein include meat, poultry, fish, cheese, milk, dairy
products, eggs, and dried beans. 2. Proteins are also
used in the body for cell structure, hormones
such as insulin, and other functions.
proteinuria
(PRO-tee-NOOR-ee-uh): the
presence of protein in the urine,
indicating that the kidneys are not working
properly.
pump:
see insulin pump.
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As
of now, no terms for Q here
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rapid-acting
insulin: a type of insulin that starts to lower
blood glucose within 5
to 10 minutes after injection
and has its strongest effect 30 minutes to 3 hours after
injection, depending on the type used. See aspart
insulin and lispro insulin.
rebound
hyperglycemia (HY-per-gly-SEE-mee-ah): a swing
to a high level of glucose
in the blood after a low level. See Somogyi
effect.
receptors:
see insulin receptors.
Recognized
Diabetes Education Programs: diabetes
self-management education programs that are approved
by the American Diabetes Association.
regular
insulin: short-acting
insulin. On average, regular insulin starts to
lower blood glucose within 30 minutes after
injection. It has its strongest effect 2
to 5 hours after injection but keeps working 5 to 8 hours
after injection. Also called R insulin.
renal
(REE-nal): having to do with the kidneys.
A renal disease is a disease of the kidneys. Renal failure
means the kidneys have stopped working.
renal
threshold (THRESH-hold) of glucose: the blood glucose concentration at which the kidneys
start to excrete glucose into the urine.
repaglinide
(reh-PAG-lih-nide): an oral medicine used to
treat type 2 diabetes.
It lowers blood glucose by helping the pancreas
make more insulin right after meals. Belongs
to the class of medicines called meglitinides. (Brand
name: Prandin.)
retina
(REH-ti-nuh): the
light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the back of
the eye.
retinopathy:
see background retinopathy,
proliferative retinopathy,
and diabetic retinopathy.
risk
factor: anything that raises the chances of
a person developing a disease.
rosiglitazone
(rose-ee-GLIH-tuh-zone): an
oral medicine used to treat type 2
diabetes. It helps insulin take
glucose from the blood into the cells for
energy by making cells more sensitive to insulin. Belongs
to the class of medicines called thiazolidinediones. (Brand
name: Avandia.)
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saccharin
(SAK-ah-rin): a
sweetener with no calories and no nutritional value.
secondary
diabetes: a type of diabetes caused by another
disease or certain drugs or chemicals.
self-management:
in diabetes, the ongoing process of managing diabetes.
Includes meal planning, planned physical activity, blood
glucose monitoring, taking diabetes medicines,
handling episodes of illness and of low and high blood
glucose, managing diabetes when traveling, and more. The
person with diabetes designs his or her own self-management
treatment plan in consultation with a variety of health
care professionals such as doctors, nurses, dietitians,
pharmacists, and others.
70/30
insulin: premixed insulin that
is 70 percent intermediate-acting (NPH) insulin
and 30 percent short-acting (regular) insulin.
sharps
container: a container for disposal of used
needles and syringes; often made of hard
plastic so that needles cannot poke through.
short-acting
insulin: a
type of insulin that starts to lower blood
glucose within 30 minutes after injection
and has its strongest effect 2 to 5 hours after injection.
See regular insulin.
side
effects: the unintended action(s) of a drug.
sliding
scale: a set of instructions for adjusting
insulin on the basis of blood glucose
test results, meals, or activity levels.
Somogyi
(suh-MOH-jee) effect, also called rebound hyperglycemia:
when the blood glucose level swings high
following hypoglycemia. The Somogyi effect
may follow an untreated hypoglycemic episode during the
night and is caused by the release of stress hormones.
sorbitol
(SORE-bih-tall): 1. A sugar alcohol
(sweetener) with 4 calories per gram.
2. A substance produced by the body in people with diabetes
that can cause damage to the eyes and nerves.
split
mixed dose: division of a prescribed daily
dose of insulin into two or more injections
given over the course of the day.
starch:
another name for carbohydrate,
one of the three main nutrients in food.
Starlix:
see nateglinide.
stroke:
condition caused by damage to blood vessels
in the brain; may cause loss of ability to speak or to
move parts of the body.
subcutaneous
(sub-kyoo-TAY-nee-us) injection: putting a
fluid into the tissue under the skin with a needle and
syringe.
sucralose:
a sweetener made from sugar but with
no calories and no nutritional value.
sucrose:
a two-part sugar made of glucose
and fructose. Known as table sugar or white
sugar, it is found naturally in sugar cane and in beets.
sugar:
1. A class of carbohydrates with
a sweet taste; includes glucose, fructose,
and sucrose. 2. A term used to refer to
blood glucose.
sugar
alcohols: sweeteners that produce a smaller
rise in blood glucose than other carbohydrates.
Their calorie content is about 2 calories
per gram. Includes erythritol, hydrogenated
starch hydrolysates, isomalt, lactitol, maltitol, mannitol,
sorbitol, and xylitol. Also
known as polyols (PAH-lee-alls.)
sugar
diabetes: former term for diabetes
mellitus.
sulfonylurea
(sul-fah-nil-yoo-REE-ah): a class of oral medicine
for type 2 diabetes that
lowers blood glucose by helping the pancreas
make more insulin and by helping the body
better use the insulin it makes. (Generic names: acetohexamide,
chlorpropamide, glimepiride, glipizide, glyburide, tolazamide,
tolbutamide.)
syndrome
x: see insulin resistance
and metabolic syndrome.
syringe
(suh-RINJ): Aube with a plunger inside and
a needle on the end.
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team
management:
a diabetes treatment approach in which medical care is
provided by a team of health care professionals including
a doctor, a dietitian,
a nurse, a diabetes educator,
and others. The team act as advisers to the person with
diabetes.
thiazolidinedione
(THIGH-uh-ZOH-lih-deen-DYE-own): a
class of oral medicine for type 2
diabetes that helps insulin
take glucose from the blood into the cells
for energy by making cells more sensitive to insulin.
(Generic names: pioglitazone and rosiglitazone.)
tight
control: see intensive therapy.
tolazamide
(tohl-AH-zah-mide): an
oral medicine used to treat type 2
diabetes. It lowers blood glucose
by helping the pancreas make more insulin
and by helping the body better use the insulin it makes.
Belongs to the class of medicines called sulfonylureas.
(Brand name: Tolinase.)
tolbutamide
(tohl-BYOO-tah-mide): an oral medicine used
to treat type 2 diabetes.
It lowers blood glucose by helping the pancreas
make more insulin and by helping the body
better use the insulin it makes. Belongs to the class
of medicines called sulfonylureas. (Brand name: Orinase.)
Tolinase:
see tolazamide.
triglyceride
(try-GLISS-er-ide): the
storage form of fat in the body. High triglyceride
levels may occur when diabetes is out of control.
type
1 diabetes: a
condition characterized by high blood glucose levels
caused by a total lack of insulin. Occurs
when the body's immune system attacks the
insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas
and destroys them. The pancreas then produces little or
no insulin. Type 1 diabetes develops most often in young
people but can appear in adults.
type
2 diabetes: a
condition characterized by high blood glucose levels
caused by either a lack of insulin or the
body's inability to use insulin efficiently. Type 2 diabetes
develops most often in middle-aged and older adults but
can appear in young people.
type
I diabetes: former
term for type 1 diabetes.
type
II diabetes: former
term for type 2 diabetes.
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UKPDS:
see United Kingdom Prospective
Diabetes Study.
ulcer
(UL-sur): a
deep open sore or break in the skin.
ultralente
(UL-truh-LEN-tay) insulin: long-acting
insulin. On average, ultralente insulin starts
to lower blood glucose within 4 to 6 hours
after injection. It has its strongest effect
10 to 18 hours after injection but keeps working 24 to
28 hours after injection. Also called U insulin.
unit
of insulin: the basic measure of insulin.
U-100 insulin means 100 units of insulin per milliliter
(mL) or cubic centimeter (cc) of solution. Most insulin
made today in the United States is U-100.
United
Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS):
a
study in England, conducted from 1977 to 1997 in people
with type 2 diabetes.
The study showed that if people lowered their blood glucose, they lowered their risk of eye disease
and kidney damage. In addition, those with
type 2 diabetes and hypertension who lowered
their blood pressure also reduced their
risk of stroke, eye damage, and death from
long-term complications.
U-100:
see unit of insulin.
urea
(yoo-REE-uh): a waste product found in the
blood that results from the normal breakdown of protein
in the liver. Urea is normally removed from
the blood by the kidneys and then excreted
in the urine.
uremia
(yoo-REE-mee-ah): the illness associated with
the buildup of urea in the blood because
the kidneys are not working effectively.
Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weakness,
and mental confusion.
urine:
the liquid waste product filtered from the blood by
the kidneys, stored in the bladder, and
expelled from the body by the act of urinating.
urine
testing: also called urinalysis; a test of
a urine sample to diagnose diseases of the urinary system
and other body systems. In people with diabetes, a doctor
may check for
1.
glucose, a sign of diabetes or other
diseases.
2. protein, a sign of kidney damage, or
glucose. (Also see albuminuria.)
3. White blood cells, a sign of urinary
tract infection.
4. ketones, a sign of
diabetic ketoacidosis
or other conditions.
Urine
may also be checked for signs of bleeding. Some tests
use a single urine sample. For others, 24-hour collection
may be needed. And sometimes a sample is "cultured"
to see exactly what type of bacteria grows.
urologist
(yoo-RAH-luh-jist): a
doctor who treats people who have urinary tract problems.
A urologist also cares for men who have problems with
their genital organs, such as impotence.
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vascular
(VAS-kyoo-ler):
relating to the body's impotence.
vein:
a impotence that carries blood to
the heart.
very-long-acting
insulin: a
type of insulin that starts to lower blood
glucose within 1 hour after injection
and keeps working evenly for 24 hours after injection.
See glargine insulin.
very-low-density
lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol: a
form of cholesterol in
the blood; high levels may be related to cardiovascular
disease.
vitrectomy
(vih-TREK-tuh-mee): surgery to restore sight
in which the surgeon removes the cloudy vitreous
humor in the eye and replaces it with a salt
solution.
vitreous
(VIH-tree-us) humor: the clear gel that lies
behind the eye's lens and in front of the retina.
VLDL
cholesterol: see very-low-density
lipoprotein cholesterol.
void:
to urinate; to empty the bladder.
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wound
care: steps taken to ensure that a wound
such as a foot ulcer heals correctly.
People with diabetes need to take special precautions
so
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xylitol
(ZY-lih-tall):
a carbohydrate-based sweetener found
in plants and used as a substitute for sugar;
provides calories. Found in some mints
and chewing gum.
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As
of now, no terms for Y
here
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As
of now, no terms for Z
here
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This
health article is made available by Dr. Joseph Barry. Diabetic office at 5415 West Genesee St, New York, NY, 13031 is easily accessible from yracuse, Warners, Marcellus, Liverpool, Elbridge, Memphis, Nedrow, Baldwinsville, Jordan, and Mottville.
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