Diabetes Dictionary

Please look below for terms and their definitions.

A

Acarbose

An alpha-glucosidase enzyme inhibitor. Acarbose slows down the
enzyme from breaking down carbohydrates into glucose. This action
causes the reduction of glucose in the bloodstream.

Side effects include intestinal gas and diarrhea. This medication
is not recommended for individuals with poor kidney function and
reduced bowels function.

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 high intensity artificial sweetener with no calories and no
nutritional value. Also known as acesulfame-K. (Brand name: Sunett.) It
is 200 times sweeter than table sugar (sucrose). Health risk debates
makes this sweetener another controversial food additive.

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.

adiponectin (AH-dee-poh-neck-tin):

(also referred to as Acrp30, apM1) is a hormone that regulates the
amount of glucose and fatty acids in the bloodstream. Adiponectin is
secreted from fat cells into the bloodstream. Blood plasma has more
adiponectin than many other hormones. Higher levels of the hormone
results in lower body mass and lower levels is found in high body mass
individuals. TBy its activity, the hormone helps to prevent type 2
diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis. It effects insulin sensitivity.

Adult-Onset Diabetes: Former term for Type 2 diabetes.

aerobic exercise:

Aerobic exercise refers to the kind of fast-paced activity that
makes you “huff and puff.” It places demands on your cardiovascular
apparatus and, over time, produces beneficial changes in your
respiratory and circulatory systems.

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.

AGEs are produced outside of the body when sugar and protein are
heated in cooking/frying. Eating the fried protein enables us to ingest
the AGEs, thereby allowing these products to enter the blood stream and
attack the surface of structures and organs. It is believed the elderly
and diabetics are at risk of further injury from this source of AGEs.

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 nephropathy
(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 blood vessel 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:

A 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.

B

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.

Basic Science Study:

A laboratory study done at the molecular level of biology and/or
chemistry, to obtain necessary knowledge and background for later
research such as animal studies and clinical trials.

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 per 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. Does not take muscular development into
account.
To find BMI: Multiply body weight in pounds by 703. Divide that number
by height in inches. Divide that number by height in inches again. Find
the resulting number in the chart below.

Below 18.5 is underweight. 18.5–24.9 is normal. 25.0–29.9 is overweight. 30.0 and above is 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.

C

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. Diabetics are twice as likely to develop cataract as non-diabetics.

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.

clinical trial:

A research study in which a treatment or therapy is tested in
people t see whether it is safe and effective. Clinical trials are a
key part of the process in finding out which treatments, which do not,
and why. Clinical trial results also contribute new knowledge about
diseases and medical conditions.

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 pills:

Oral medications combined to provide two medical benefits to diabetics in one pill. For example:
metformin + pioglitazone;
metformin + rosiglitazone;
metformin + glyburide;
metformin + glipizide;
rosiglitazone + glimepiride.
Buying these pills may less expensive that buying the individual benefit pills

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.

controlled study:

A clinical trial in which one group receives a treatment under and
another group (the control group) receives either a placebo, standard
treatment, or no treatment.

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.

D

dawn phenomenon (feh-NAH-meh-nun):

The early-morning (4 a.m. to 8 a.m.) rise in blood glucose level.
After fasting during sleep, the body causes an increase in the glucose
in the blood. It is thought that the increase in glucose provides extra
energy to fuel the body.

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.

dehydrogenase:

An enzyme that oxydizes a substrate by transfering one or more protons and a pair of electrons to an acceptor.

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 nephropathy.

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:

Cross Section of Eye

Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of eye problems that people
with diabetes may face as a complication of diabetes. All can cause
severe vision loss or even blindness.

Diabetic eye disease may include:There are 3 eye diseases associated with diabetes complications: 

1.Diabetic retinopathy (see diabetic retinopathy). 

2. Glaucoma (see glaucoma).

3. Cataract (see cataract).

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):

A diabetic eye disease; damage to the small blood vessels in the retina. Loss of vision may result.
Diabetic retinopathy has four stages:

1. Mild Nonproliferative Retinopathy: At this earliest stage, microaneurysms occur. They are small areas of balloon-like swelling in the retina’s tiny blood vessels.
2. Moderate Nonproliferative Retinopathy: As the disease progresses, some blood vessels that nourish the retina are blocked.
3. Severe Nonproliferative Retinopathy:
Many more blood vessels are blocked, depriving several areas of the
retina with their blood supply. These areas of the retina send signals
to the body to grow new blood vessels for nourishment.
4. Proliferative Retinopathy:
At this advanced stage, the signals sent by the retina for nourishment
trigger the growth of new blood vessels. This condition is called
proliferative retinopathy. These new blood vessels are abnormal and
fragile. They grow along the retina and along the surface of the clear,
vitreous gel that fills the inside of the eye. By themselves, these
blood vessels do not cause symptoms or vision loss. However, they have
thin, fragile walls. If they leak blood, severe vision loss and even
blindness can 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.

E

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:

A 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.

Endocrinology:

A branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the endocrine system
and the specific hormones it secretes. Although other organs and body
parts are involved in secretions, the endocrine system is made up of
the following organs: adrenals, ovaries, pancreas, pituitary, testes,
thyroids.

endorphins (EN-dor-finz):

Hormones made in the brain and released in to the blood by the
pituitary gland, into the spinal cord & brain from the
hypothalamus. They appear to provide a sense of wellbeing and
pain-killing benefit. Beta-endorphins are believed to be released
during or after moderate to high level of physical activity when the
muscles are running low on oxygen. Some researcher believe early stages
of lactic acidosis trigger the release of these hormones.

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.

F

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:

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. Eating excess animal fat provides high amount of
cholesterol and triglycerides. We store excess calories 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.

foot ulcer

An open sore on your foot. Occurs when cuts or abrasions on your
feet are slow to heal because of poor circulation, often associated
with nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy). Amputation will result without
critical foot care.

Free radical:

A highly reactive chemical that attacks molecules that are key to
cell functioning, by capturing electrons and thus changing chemical
structures.

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. The following are characteristics of fructose:

1. Has 4 calories per gram. It is the sweetest natural sugar – 2 times sweeter than sucrose.

2. Is broken down only by the liver. So, it takes longer to be
digested. As a result, it has a lower glycemic index than glucose and
sucrose.

Attaches to micronutrients (chelates minerals like copper, chromium, and zinc) thereby robbing the body of these nutrients.

3. Because it processed in the liver, fructose may cause increased fat (triglyceride), and high insulin in the blood.

Functional food:

A food that has biologically active components (such as fish oils
or plant estrogens) that may provide health benefits beyond basic
nutrition.

G

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. The second leading cause of blindness. One cause of glaucoma
is the eyes inability to drain vitreous humor properly. This leads to
increased pressure on the structures of the eye (see diabetic eye
disease: cross section of the eye.

Inter ocular pressure (IOP) is measured by tonometry procedures.
The normal range is 7 to 21 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). A diabetic
is twice as likely to suffer from glaucoma than a non-diabetic. Also,
the benefit of surgery is reduced due to difficulty in some diabetics
to healing properly.

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 (GLU-kos):

Also known as dextrose is the most important and abundant sugar in
the world. All of our cells use it as the primary energy source. It is
a simple carbohydrate that delivers 4 Calories of energy per gram. It
is the most abundant simple sugar found in our blood. Glucose in high
concentration attaches to our cells (glycation) causing complications
of diabetes mellitus. Glucose is the building block for complex
carbohydrates like galactose, sucrose, and starch. Glucose is stored in
the liver and muscles as glycogen.

glucose tablets:

Chewable tablets made of pure glucose used for treating hypoglycemia.

glucose tolerance test:

see oral glucose tolerance test.

glucose monitor

An electronic device that measures glucose levels in a person’s
blood. The more common device uses a strip to absorb a drop of blood.
The unit analyzes the drop and in seconds presents the number in mg/dL.
The newest unit inserts a small sensor just under the skin. After a few
seconds it sends the value wirelessly to a receiver.

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.)

glycation

The result of simple sugars like glucose, fructose, and galactose attaching themselves to cells (protein or lipid).
When this happens inside the body complications of diabetes mellitus result. See neuropathy.

Glycated cells stay in the body twice as long as non-glycated
cells. Over a long period of time, damaged cells line the artery or
capillary causing the organ or structure to poorly function. For
example, the walls of blood vessels stiffen. This stiffening resists
blood flow. This results in increased blood pressure and eventual
bursting of the capillaries (in the case of the eye/retina.) This is
called retinal neuropathy. In the brain it is a stroke or an aneurism.

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
(glucose or white bread).

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 (gly-KOH-Sy-lay-ted):

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. One slice of bread has 15 grams of carbohydrate.

H

HbA1c:

Hemoglobin A1c, a blood test that measures a person’ average blood glucose level over a period of weeks or months.

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 (HEE-moh-glo-bin) A1C test:

see A1C or HbA1c.

heredity:

The passing of a trait from parent to child.

hexokinase:

The first enzyme of glycolysis in converting intercellular glucose
(a hexose a 6 carbon sugar) to Glucose-6-Phosphate using the gamma
phosphate ATP. Glycolysis is the process by which the cells of the body
convert glucose to chemical energy.

HHNS:

see hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome.

high blood glucose:

see hyperglycemia.

high blood pressure:

see hypertension.

high-density lipoprotein cholesterol:

see HDL cholesterol.

high fructose corn syrup (HFCS):

A man-made sweetener created by using enzymes to combine fructose
with glucose. It is made into different combinations: HFCS-90 is 90
(%)percent fructose and 10 % glucose, for pastry; HFCS-55 is 55 %
fructose and 45 % glucose, in soft drinks; HFCS-42 is 42 % fructose and
58 % glucose, used in sport drinks.

Benefit to food manufacturers are HFCS :

1. Cheaper than natural sugar due to U.S. imposed tariffs and import quota limits.

2. Increases the shelf life of products.

3. Easier to blend than sucrose because it is a liquid.

4. Fructose is 2 times sweeter than sucrose – use less.

5. Fructose has a lower glycemic index than glucose.

Negative controversy:

1. HFCS is produced with genetically modified enzymes.

2. Fructose attaches to micronutrients (chelates minerals like copper, chromium, and zinc) thereby robbing the body of these nutrients.

3. Fructose is broken down only by the liver. As a
result fructose may cause increased fat (triglyceride), LDL (bad)
cholesterol, and high insulin in the blood.

4. Eating a lot of fructose (by lab animals) cause insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance, and high insulin concentration in the blood of animals.

5. Unlike glucose, fructose does not cause you to feel full-you keep eating.

6. Unlike glucose, fructose does not suppress hunger.

High Intensity Sweeteners (HIS)

Man-made sweeteners providing zero calories and no nutrients.
The FDA has approved for use five sugar substitutes. See: acesulfame
potassium, aspartame, neotame, saccharin, and sucralose. The basis for
the ongoing controversy with these artificial sweeteners is whether
they are are health risks.

However, they have all been recommended for diabetics. Very small
amounts of these sweeteners are needed to match the sweetness profile
of sugar. As a result other ingredients are delivered with the HIS to
provide the mouthfeel we expect sweetened food and drinks.

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.

I

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):

Also called pre-diabetes is 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
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 accidental loss of urine or feces.

inhaled insulin:

A new treatment for taking fast-acting 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. It also
controls the liver’s action in storing glucose as glycogen. Insulin
helps in fatty acids synthesis.

The beta cells of the pancreas make insulin. Insulin from other
animals are different from human version. Pig insulin is the closest to
human insulin.

When the body cannot make enough insulin, insulin is taken by injection, through use of an insulin pump, or inhalation.

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.

J

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.

K

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 nephropathy.

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.

L

LADA:

see Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults.

lactic acidosis (LAK-tik) (AH-sid-OH-sis):

A potentially fatal condition caused by lactic acid buildup in the
blood. Lactic acidosis (LA) is an uncommon side effect of biguanine use
to treat Type 2 diabetes (see metformin). Biguanine appears to increase
the production of and decrease the release of lactate. Lactate or
lactic acid is an end-product of glucose breakdown by the cells of the
body.

Symptoms of lactic acidosis are, weakness & muscle pain,
numbness & tingling, deep breathing, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
LA also indicates kidney and liver disease.

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 innner
walls of arteries. 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 able to 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.

M

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):

A popular 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 protein called 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-noo-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.

N

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.

neotame

A high intensity artificial sweetener made by NutraSweet the makers of aspartame. Neotame is:

1. About 8,000 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar).

2. Has zero nutritional value.

3. Moderately heat stable.

4. Not widely used.

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 (noo-RAH-luh-jist):

A doctor who specializes in problems of the nervous system, such as neuropathy.

neuropathy (noo-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.

O

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.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s, for short) are a group of
polyunsaturated fatty acids that come from food sources, such as fish,
fish oil, some vegetable oils (primarily canola and soybean), walnuts,
wheat germ, and certain dietary supplements. As supplements, omega-3s
are marketed as capsules or oils, often as fish oil.

Omega-3s are important in a number of bodily functions, including
moving calcium and other substances in and out of cells, the relaxation
and contraction of muscles, blood clotting, digestion, fertility, cell
division, and growth.

Omega-3s have been the subject of much media attention in recent
years, because of studies finding they may be useful for such purposes
as decreasing the rate of heart disease, reducing inflammation, and
lowering triglyceride levels. Some countries and organizations have
issued formal recommendations on the intake of omega-3s, through meals,
oils, and possibly supplementation. Omega-3s have been of interest for
diabetes primarily because having diabetes increases a person’s risk
for heart disease and stroke.

Omega-3s appear to be safe for most adults at low-to-moderate
doses. There have been some safety questions raised about fish oil
supplements, because certain species of fish can be contaminated with
substances from the environment, like mercury, pesticides, or PCBs.

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
ToleranceTest 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.

P

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:

A 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.

pedorthics:

The design, manufacture, modification, and fit of footwear and
orthoses to help manage pain, discomfort, and disabilities in the legs
and feet. Orthoses are placed externally to accomplish the benefits.
For example, shoe inserts.

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 dentist 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.)

placebo:

An inert or sham treatment, such as a sugar pill.

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.