Diabetes Management and Treatment

A set of vocabulary flashcards regarding diabetes, its management, treatment, and related complications for exam preparation.

Diabetes

A metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels over prolonged periods.

HbA1C

A measure of average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months.

Impaired Glucose Tolerance

A condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

A test that measures the body's response to sugar; it involves fasting and then consuming a glucose-rich beverage.

Hypoglycemia

A condition where blood sugar levels fall below normal, often resulting in symptoms such as confusion and irritability.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels.

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

A serious complication of diabetes that occurs when the body starts breaking down fats at an abnormal rate, leading to ketone buildup in the blood.

Hyperglycemia

A condition characterized by an excessive amount of glucose in the bloodstream.

Glucagon

A hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels by promoting glycogen breakdown.

Biguanides

A class of oral diabetes medications, such as Metformin, that help decrease insulin resistance.

Sulfonylureas

A class of drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes that work by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin.

Long-acting Insulin

Insulin that is released slowly over a longer period, helping maintain blood sugar levels.

Thiazolidinediones

A class of diabetes medications that increase insulin sensitivity.

Self Monitoring Blood Glucose

The process of frequently checking blood glucose levels using a personal glucose meter.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Nerve damage that can occur due to prolonged high blood sugar, leading to pain or loss of sensation in extremities.

A1C Goal

The target percentage of the HbA1C test results for patients with diabetes, typically set below 6.5% to reduce health risks.

Exercise for Diabetes

Physical activity that helps improve glycemic control, support weight loss, and enhance emotional well-being for diabetic individuals.

Compression Therapy

Treatment to improve circulation or reduce swelling, often needed in diabetic patients.

Dia-B

Short form often referring to diabetes in spoken language (less common).

Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Syndrome (HHNKS)

A serious condition resulting from extremely high blood sugar levels, leading to severe dehydration without significant ketone formation.

What is Hyperglycemia?

Hyperglycemia is a condition characterized by an excessive amount of glucose in the bloodstream.

What are the causes of Hyperglycemia?

Common causes include insufficient insulin production, insulin resistance, stress, illness, and certain medications.

What are the symptoms of Hyperglycemia?

Symptoms may include frequent urination, increased thirst, fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches.

How is Hyperglycemia treated?

Treatment can involve adjusting diabetes medications, increasing physical activity, and monitoring blood glucose levels.

What are the potential complications of untreated Hyperglycemia?

Untreated hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS).