Carbohydrates and Arterial Blood Gases Overview

What are the three classifications of carbohydrates?

Monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides.

What is the primary sugar used in metabolism?

Glucose.

Where is glucose stored in the body?

As glycogen in the liver and muscle.

What hormone lowers blood glucose levels?

Insulin.

What hormone raises blood glucose levels?

Glucagon.

What are the effects of cortisol, epinephrine, and growth hormone on glucose levels?

They increase glucose levels.

What characterizes Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus?

Autoimmune destruction of beta cells leading to insulin deficiency.

What characterizes Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?

Insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency.

List some common symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus.

Polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, weight loss.

What is the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) level that indicates diabetes?

FPG >= 126 mg/dL.

What is the purpose of the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)?

To assess glucose metabolism after a 75g glucose load.

What does HbA1c reflect?

The 2-3 month average glucose level.

What is hypoglycemia defined as?

Blood glucose level < 70 mg/dL.

What is lactose intolerance caused by?

Deficiency of lactase.

What do arterial blood gases (ABGs) provide information about?

Oxygenation, ventilation, and acid-base status.

What are the normal pH ranges for arterial blood gases?

7.35-7.45.

What condition is indicated by increased pCO2?

Respiratory acidosis.

What is the compensation mechanism for metabolic disorders?

Lungs compensate quickly.

What does hypoxemia refer to?

Low pO2 in the blood.

What does the A-a gradient assess?

The cause of hypoxemia.

What does a right shift in the oxygen dissociation curve indicate?

Decreased affinity for oxygen.