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.
Hemodialysis
- 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.
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.
Dilated eye
Undilated eye
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.
back to the top
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.
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.
back to the top
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:
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.
Sources of fat
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.
back to the top
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.
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 tablets
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: (GI)
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.
One slice of bread has 15 grams of carbohydrate
back to the top
H
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.
Checking blood pressure
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.
back to the top
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):
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" or "chemical" 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:
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 pump
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. Also called physiologic insulin therapy.
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.
back to the top
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.
back to the top
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.
Kidneys
Kussmaul (KOOS-mall) breathing:
the rapid, deep, and labored breathing of people who have diabetic ketoacidosis.
back to the top
L
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 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 (Humalog) 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.
Liver
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.
back to the top
M
macrosomia (mack-roh-SOH-mee-ah):
abnormally large; in diabetes, refers to abnormally large babies that may be born to women with diabetes.
Macrosomia
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 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-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.
back to the top
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.
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.
NLD:
see necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum.
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.
non-proliferative retinopathy:
see background retinopathy
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.
back to the top
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.
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.
Ophthalmologist
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.
back to the top
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
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.
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.
Pharmacist
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, 70/30 insulin and 75/25 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.
Sources of protein
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.
back to the top
R
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.)
back to the top
S
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.
75/25 insulin:
premixed insulin that is 75 percent intermediate-acting (NPH) insulin and 25 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 2.6 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):
a device used to inject medications or other liquids into body tissues. The syringe for insulin has a hollow plastic tube with a plunger inside and a needle on the end.
Syringe
back to the top
T
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.
trans fats:
also trans fatty acids. Produced by partially hydrogenating plant oils to create solid saturated fats. Often found in margarine, shortening, and some commercial baked goods. Eating large amounts of trans fats may raise blood cholesterol and risk of heart disease.
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.
back to the top
U
U-100:
see unit of insulin.
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.
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
Glucose, a sign of diabetes or other diseases.
Protein, a sign of kidney damage, or nephropathy. (Also see albuminuria.)
White blood cells, a sign of urinary tract infection.
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.
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.
back to the top
V
vascular (VAS-kyoo-ler):
relating to the body's blood vessels.
Vascular system
vein:
a blood vessel 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.
back to the top
W
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 wounds do not become infected.
back to the top
X
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.
back to the top
Our glossary includes and builds on the definitions found in The Diabetes Dictionary (NIH Publication No. 07–3016, October 2006) published by the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse , is available on their website (http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/dictionary/index.htm) and is not copyrighted. The Clearinghouse encourages users of this publication to duplicate and distribute as many copies as desired.
The U.S. Government does not endorse or favor any specific commercial product or company. Trade, proprietary, or company names appearing in this document are used only because they are considered essential in the context of the information provided.
The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC) is a service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). For more information, visit their website at www.diabetes.niddk.nih.gov.