50/50 insulin
premixed insulin that is 50 percent intermediate-acting (NPH) insulin and 50 percent short-acting (regular) insulin .
70/30 insulin
premixed insulin that is 75 percent intermediate-acting (NPH) insulin and 25 percent short-acting (regular) insulin .
75/25 insulin
premixed insulin that is a 75 percent intermediate-acting (NPH) insulin and a 25 percent short-acting (regular) insulin .
A1C
A test that measures a person’s average blood glucose level over the past three months. Hemoglobin (HEE-mo-glo-bin) is the part of a red blood cell Read more»
acanthosis nigricans
(uh-kan-THO-sis NIH-grih-kans): a skin condition characterized by darkened skin patches; common in people whose body is not responding correctly to the insulin Read more»
acarbose
(AK-er-bose) an oral medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes . It blocks the enzymes that digest starches in food. The result is a slower and lower Read more»
ACE inhibitor
ACE inhibitors are medications that treat hypertension (High blood pressure) by relaxing the blood vessels. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors prevent an enzyme Read more»
acesulfame
acesulfame (a-see-SUL-fame) potassium (puh-TAS-ee-um): a dietary sweetener with no calories and no nutritional value. Also known as acesulfame-K. (Brand name: Sunett.) Read more»
acesulfame potassium
(a-see-SUL-fame puh-TAS-ee-um) a dietary sweetener with no calories and no nutritional value. Also known as acesulfame-K. (Brand name: Sunett.)
acetohexamide
(a-see-toh-HEX-uh-myde): an oral medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes . It lowers blood glucose by helping the pancreas make more insulin and by helping the body better use Read more»
Actos
Brand name for Pioglitazone
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 Read more»
adult-onset diabetes
former term for type 2 diabetes .
AGEs
(A-G-EEZ): stands for advanced glycosylation (gly-KOH-sih-LAY-shun) endproducts. AGEs are produced in the body when glucose links with protein . They play a role in Read more»
Agonist
An agonist is a substance that binds itself to a specific receptor and produces a physiological effect
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 Read more»
alpha cell
(AL-fa) a type of cell in the pancreas . Alpha cells make and release a hormone called glucagon . The body sends a signal to Read more»
alpha-glucosidase inhibitor
(AL-fa-gloo-KOH-sih-days) 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 Read more»
Amaryl
Brand name for 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 Read more»
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 Read more»
angiopathy
(an-gee-AH-puh-thee): any disease of the blood vessels ( veins , arteries , capillaries ) or lymphatic vessels.
Anorectic
a medication that suppresses the appetite
Anorexigen
a medication that suppresses the appetite
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 Read more»
antigens
substances that cause an immune response in the body. The body "sees" the antigens as harmful or foreign. To fight them, the Read more»
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 insulin
(ASS-part): a rapid-acting insulin . On average, aspart insulin (Novolog) starts to lower blood glucose within 10 to 20 minutes after injection . It has its strongest Read more»
aspartame
(ASS-per-tame): a dietary sweetener with almost no calories and no nutritional value. (Brand names: Equal, NutraSweet.)
asymptomatic
no symptoms; no clear sign of disease present.
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 Read more»
autoimmune disease
(AW-toh-ih-MYOON): disorder of the body’s immune system in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys body tissue that it believes to be foreign. Read more»
autonomic neuropathy
(aw-toh-NOM-ik ne-ROP-uh-thee): a type of neuropathy affecting the lungs, heart, stomach, intestines, bladder, or genitals.
Avandia
Brand name for rosiglitazone .
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 Read more»
basal rate
a steady trickle of low levels of longer-acting insulin , such as that used in insulin pumps .
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 Read more»
blood glucose
blood glucose, or commonly referred to as blood sugar, is the form of energy circulating in the blood stream. Blood glucose is Read more»
blood glucose level
the amount of glucose in a given amount of blood. It is noted in milligrams in a deciliter, or mg/dL.
blood glucose meter
a small, portable machine used by people with diabetes to check their blood sugar levels . After pricking the skin with a lancet , one places Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
blood sampling devices
a small instrument for pricking the skin with a fine needle to obtain a sample of blood to test for glucose (sugar). Read more»
blood sugar
Common name for Blood Glucose
blood sugar level
Common name for Blood Glucose Level .
blood urea nitrogen
(yoo-REE-uh NY-truh-jen) (BUN): a waste product in the blood from the breakdown of protein . The kidneys filter blood to remove urea . As kidney Read more»
blood vessels
tubes that carry blood to and from all parts of the body. The three main types of blood vessels are arteries , veins , Read more»
BMI
Abbreviation of 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 Read more»
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 pre-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
Abbreviation of 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. Read more»
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 Read more»
calcium channel blocker
a drug used to lower blood pressure .
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 . Read more»
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 disease
(KAR-dee-oh-VASK-yoo-ler) : disease of the heart and blood vessels ( arteries , veins , and capillaries ).
carpal tunnel syndrome
a severe disorder affecting the hand that may occur in people with diabetes ; caused by a pinched nerve.
cataract
(KA-ter-act): clouding of the lens of the eye.
CDE
Abbreviation for Certified Diabetes Educator
cerebrovascular disease
(seh-REE-broh-VASK-yoo-ler): damage to blood vessels in the brain. Vessels can burst and bleed or become clogged with fatty deposits. When blood flow is interrupted, Read more»
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 Read more»
Charcot’s foot
(shar-KOHZ) a condition in which the joints and soft tissue in the foot are destroyed; it results from damage to the nerves. Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
circulation
the flow of blood through the body’s blood vessels and heart.
clinical trial
a scientifically controlled study carried out in people, usually to test the effectiveness of a new treatment.
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 Read more»
combination oral medicines
a pill that includes two or more different medicines. See Glucovance .
combination therapy
the use of different medicines together ( oral hypoglycemic agents or an oral hypoglycemic agent and insulin ) to manage the blood glucose levels of people with type 2 diabetes . Read more»
complete proteins
a source of protein that contains an adequate proportion of all of the essential amino acids for the dietary needs of humans Read more»
complications
harmful effects of diabetes such as damage to the eyes, heart, blood vessels , nervous system, teeth and gums, feet and skin, or kidneys . Read more»
congenital defects
(kun-JEN-ih-tul) problems or conditions that are present at birth.
congestive heart failure
loss of the heart’s pumping power, which causes fluids to collect in the body, especially in the feet and lungs.
conventional therapy
a term used in clinical trials where one group receives treatment for diabetes in which A1C and blood glucose levels are kept at levels based on Read more»
coronary artery disease
Alternate name for Coronary Heart Disease .
coronary heart disease
(KOR-uh-ner-ee) heart disease caused by narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the heart. If the blood supply is cut off the Read more»
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 Read more»
D-phenylalanine derivative
(dee-fen-nel-AL-ah-neen): 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: Read more»
dawn phenomenon
(feh-NAH-meh-nun): the early-morning (4 a.m. to 8 a.m.) rise in blood glucose level .
DCCT
Abbreviation for Diabetes Control and Complications Trial .
debridement
the removal of infected, hurt, or dead tissue.
dehydration
(dee-hy-DRAY-shun): the loss of too much body fluid through frequent urinating, sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.
dermopathy
(dur-MAH-puh-thee): disease of the skin.
desensitization
(dee-sens-ih-tiz-A-shun): a way to reduce or stop a response such as an allergic reaction to something. For example, if someone has an Read more»
dextrose
(DECKS-trohss), also called glucose : simple sugar found in blood that serves as the body’s main source of energy.
diabetes
Common name for 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 . Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
diabetic eye disease
Common name for Diabetic Retinopathy .
diabetic ketoacidosis
KEY-toe-ass-ih-DOH-sis) (DKA): an emergency condition in which extremely high blood glucose levels , along with a severe lack of insulin , result in the breakdown of Read more»
diabetic myelopathy
(my-eh-LAH-puh-thee): damage to the spinal cord found in some people with diabetes.
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
Brand name for Chlorpropamide .
diagnosis
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, Read more»
diastolic blood pressure
The Blood Pressure when the heart rests.
dietitian
(DY-eh-TIH-shun): a health care professional who advises people about meal planning, weight control, and diabetes management. A registered dietitian (RD) has Read more»
dilated
(DY-lay-ted) eye exam: a test done by an eye care specialist in which the pupil (the black center) of the eye Read more»
DKA
Abbreviation for Diabetic Ketoacidosis .
DPP
Abbreviation for Diabetes Prevention Program .
Dupuytren’s contracture
(doo-PWEE-trenz kon-TRACK-chur): a condition associated with diabetes in which the fingers and the palm of the hand thicken and shorten, causing the Read more»
Dymelor
Brand name for Acetohexamide
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.
emergency medical identification
cards, bracelets, or necklaces with a written message used by people with diabetes or other medical problems to alert others in case of Read more»
EMG
Abbreviation for Electromyography .
end-stage renal disease
(ESRD): see kidney failure .
endocrine gland
(EN-doh-krin): a group of specialized cells that release hormones into the blood. For example, the islets in the pancreas , which secrete insulin , are endocrine Read more»
endocrinologist
(EN-doh-krih-NAH-luh-jist): a doctor who treats people who have endocrine gland problems such as diabetes.
endogenous
grown or made inside the body. Insulin made by a person’s own pancreas is endogenous insulin. Insulin that is made from beef or pork Read more»
enzyme
(EN-zime): protein made by the body that brings about a chemical reaction, for example, the enzymes produced by the gut to aid Read more»
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 Read more»
exogenous
grown or made outside the body; for instance, insulin made from pork or beef pancreas is exogenous insulin for people.
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 Read more»
fat
1. One of the three main nutrients in food. Foods that provide fat are butter, margarine, salad dressing, oil, nuts, meat, poultry, Read more»
fatty acids
a basic unit of fats . When insulin levels are too low or there is not enough glucose (sugar) to use for energy, the body Read more»
fiber
a substance found in foods that comes from plants. Fiber helps in the digestive process and is thought to lower and help Read more»
fluorescein angiography
(fluh-RESS-ee-in 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 Read more»
food exchange
See: exchange lists .
foot care
taking special steps to avoid foot problems such as sores, cuts, bunions, and calluses. Good care includes daily examination of the feet, Read more»
fructosamine test
(frook-TOH-sah-meen): 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 Read more»
fructose
(FROOK-tohss): a sugar that occurs naturally in fruits and honey. Fructose has 4 calories per gram .
gangrene
(GANG-green): the death of body tissue, most often caused by a lack of blood flow and infection. It can lead to amputation. Read more»
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, Read more»
gene
a basic unit of heredity. Genes are made of DNA, a substance that tells cells what to do and when do do Read more»
gestation
the length of a pregnancy.
gestational diabetes mellitus
(jes-TAY-shun-ul 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 Read more»
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 insulin
(GLAR-jeen): 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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
glomerular filtration rate
(glo-MEHR-yoo-lur) : 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.
GLP-1 agonists
GLP-1 agonists are a class of medications that help manage blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes and can also Read more»
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 Read more»
Glucophage, Glucophage XR
Brand name for Metformin .
glucose
glucose, or commonly referred to as blood sugar, is the form of energy circulating in the blood stream. Blood glucose is the Read more»
glucose tablets
chewable tablets made of pure glucose used for treating hypoglycemia .
Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL
Brand name for 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 Read more»
glycemic index
(gly-SEE-mik) (GI): a ranking of carbohydrate -containing foods, based on the food’s effect on blood glucose compared with a standard reference food.
glycemic response
the effect of different foods on blood glucose (sugar) levels over a period of time. Researchers have discovered that some kinds of foods may raise blood Read more»
glycosuria
(gly-koh-SOOR-ee-ah): the presence of glucose in the urine .
Glynase PresTab
Brand name for Glyburide .
gram
a unit of weight in the metric system. An ounce equals 28 grams. In some meal plans for people with diabetes, the Read more»
HDL Cholesterol
Abbreviation for High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol
heart disease
Heart disease is a broad term used to describe a range of diseases that affect your heart, and in some cases, your Read more»
hemodialysis
see dialysis .
hemoglobin A1C test
see A1C .
heredity
the passing of a trait from parent to child.
HHNS
Abbreviation for Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Syndrome .
high blood glucose
Common name for Hyperglycemia .
high blood pressure
Common name for Hypertension .
High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol
(LIP-oh-PRO-teen)(kuh-LESS-tuh-rawl): a fat found in the blood that takes extra cholesterol from the blood to the liver for removal. Sometimes called “good” Read more»
HLA
Abbreviation for Human Leukocyte Antigens .
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 Read more»
hormone
a chemical produced in one part of the body and released into the blood to trigger or regulate particular functions of the Read more»
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 Read more»
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. Read more»
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 Read more»
hyperlipidemia
(HY-per-li-pih-DEE-mee-uh): higher than normal fat and cholesterol levels in the blood.
hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome
(HY-per-oz-MOH-lur HY-per-gly-SEE-mik non-kee-TAH-tik) (HHNS): an emergency condition in which one’s blood glucose level is very high and ketones are not present in the blood or urine . Read more»
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 Read more»
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, Read more»
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 Read more»
hypotension
low blood pressure or a sudden drop in blood pressure. Hypotension may occur when a person rises quickly from a sitting or reclining position, Read more»
IDDM
Abbreviation for Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus , the former term for Type 1 Diabetes .
immune system
(ih-MYOON): 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 Read more»
immunosuppressive drugs
drugs that block the body’s ability to fight infection or foreign substances that enter the body. A person receiving a kidney or pancreas transplant Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
implantable insulin pump
(im-PLAN-tuh-bull): 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 Read more»
incomplete proteins
one having a ratio of essential amino acids different from that of the average body protein.
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
insulin allergy
when a person’s body has an allergic or bad reaction to taking insulin made from pork or beef or from bacteria, or because Read more»
insulin antagonist
something that opposes or fights the action of insulin . Insulin lowers the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood, whereas glucagon raises it; therefore, Read more»
insulin binding
when insulin attaches itself to something else. This can occur in two ways. First, when a cell needs energy, insulin can bind with Read more»
insulin pen
a device for injecting insulin that looks like a fountain pen and holds replaceable cartridges of insulin. Also available in disposable form. Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
insulin shock
Common name for Hypoglycemia
insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
(IDDM): former term for type 1 diabetes .
insulin-induced atrophy
small dents that form on the skin when a person keeps injecting a needle in the same spot. They are harmless. See Read more»
insulinoma
a tumor of the beta cells in the pancreas . An insulinoma may cause the body to make extra insulin , leading to hypoglycemia Read more»
intensive management
a form of treatment for insulin -dependent diabetes in which the main objective is to keep blood glucose (sugar) levels as close to the normal range as possible. Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
intermittent claudication
(IN-ter-MIT-ent CLAW-dih-KAY-shun): pain that comes and goes in the muscles of the leg. This pain results from a lack of blood supply Read more»
intramuscular injection
(in-trah-MUS-kyoo-lar): inserting liquid medication into a muscle with a syringe . Glucagon may be given by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection for hypoglycemia Read more»
islet cell autoantibodies
(EYE-let 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 Read more»
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 Read more»
islets
groups of cells located in the pancreas that make hormones that help the body break down and use food. For example, alpha cells Read more»
islets of Langerhans
Alternate name for Islets .
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 .
ketone
a chemical produced when there is a shortage of insulin in the blood and the body breaks down body fat for energy. High Read more»
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
Common name for 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 Read more»
kidneys
the two bean-shaped organs that filter wastes from the blood and form urine . The kidneys are located near the middle of the Read more»
Kussmaul breathing
(KOOS-mall): the rapid, deep, and labored breathing of people who have diabetic ketoacidosis.
lactic acidosis
the buildup of lactic acid in the body. The cells make lactic acid when they use glucose (sugar) for energy. If too much Read more»
LADA
Abbreviation for 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 Read more»
latent autoimmune diabetes in adults
(LADA): a condition in which type 1 diabetes develops in adults.
LDL cholesterol
Abbreviation for Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol
lente insulin
(LEN-tay): an intermediate-acting insulin. On average, lente insulin starts to lower blood glucose levels within 1 to 2 hours after injection . It Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
lipoatrophy
defect in the breaking down or building up of fat below the surface of the skin, resulting in lumps or small dents Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
lispro insulin
(LYZ-proh): a rapid-acting insulin. On average, lispro (Humalog) insulin starts to lower blood glucose within 5 minutes after injection. It has its Read more»
liver
an organ in the body that changes food into energy, removes alcohol and poisons from the blood, and makes bile, a substance Read more»
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 Read more»
low blood sugar
Common name for Hypoglycemia .
low-density lipoprotein cholesterol
(kuh-LESS-tuh-rawl LIP-oh-PRO-teen): a fat found in the blood that takes cholesterol around the body to where it is needed for cell repair and Read more»
macrosomia
(mack-roh-SOH-mee-ah): abnormally large; in diabetes, refers to abnormally large babies that may be born to women with diabetes.
macrovascular disease
(mack-roh-VASK-yoo-ler): Disease of the large blood vessels, such as those found in the heart. Lipids and blood clots build up in the Read more»
macular edema
(MACK-yoo-lur 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 Read more»
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: Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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. Read more»
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 Read more»
microvascular disease
(MY-kro-VASK-yoo-ler): disease of the smallest blood vessels , such as those found in the eyes, nerves, and kidneys . The walls of the vessels become Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
mmol/L
millimoles per liter, a unit of measure that shows the concentration of a substance in a specific amount of fluid. In most Read more»
MODY
Abbreviation for 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, Read more»
mononeuropathy
(MAH-noh-ne-ROP-uh-thee): neuropathy affecting a single nerve.
monounsaturated fats
are fatty acids that have a single double bond in the fatty acid chain and all of the remainder of the carbon Read more»
morbidity rate
the sickness rate; the number of people who are sick or have a disease compared with the number of people who are Read more»
myocardial infarction
(my-oh-KAR-dee-ul in-FARK-shun): an interruption in the blood supply to the heart because of narrowed or blocked blood vessels . Also called a heart attack. Read more»
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 Read more»
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
one of the 17 institutes that make up the National Institutes of Health, an agency of the Public Health Service.
necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum
(NEK-roh-by-OH-sis lih-POY-dik-ah 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 Read more»
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 Read more»
nerve conduction studies
tests used to measure for nerve damage; one way to diagnose neuropathy .
nerve disease
Common name for 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 Read more»
NIDDM
Abbreivation for Noninsulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus .
NLD
Abbreviation for Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum .
noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
(NIDDM): former term for type 2 diabetes .
noninvasive blood glucose monitoring
(NON-in-VAY-siv): 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 . Read more»
nutrition
the process by which the body draws nutrients from food and uses them to make or mend its cells.
nutritionist
(noo-TRIH-shuh-nist): a person with training in nutrition; may or may not have specialized training and qualifications. See dietitian .
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 Read more»
obstetrician
(ob-steh-TRIH-shun): a doctor who treats pregnant women and delivers babies.
OGTT
Abbreviation for 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. Read more»
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. Read more»
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 Read more»
oral hypoglycemic agents
(hy-po-gly-SEE-mik): 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 Read more»
Orinase
Brand name for Tolbutamide .
overweight
an above-normal body weight; having a body mass index of 25 to 29.9.
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 Read more»
pancreas transplantation
a surgical procedure to take a healthy whole or partial pancreas from a donor and place it into a person with diabetes. Read more»
pancreatitis
inflammation (pain, tenderness) of the pancreas ; it can make the pancreas stop working. It is caused by drinking too much alcohol, by Read more»
peak action
the time period when the effect of something is as strong as it can be such as when insulin in having the most Read more»
pediatric endocrinologist
(pee-dee-AT-rik 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 Read more»
periodontal disease
(PER-ee-oh-DON-tul): disease of the gums.
periodontist
(PER-ee-oh-DON-tist): a dentist who specializes in treating people who have gum diseases.
peripheral neuropathy
(puh-RIF-uh-rul ne-ROP-uh-thee): nerve damage that affects the feet, legs, or hands. Peripheral neuropathy causes pain, numbness, or a tingling feeling.
peripheral vascular disease
(puh-RIF-uh-rul VAS-kyoo-ler) (PVD): a disease of the large blood vessels of the arms, legs, and feet. PVD may occur when major blood vessels in Read more»
peritoneal dialysis
A method of Dialysis in which cleaning of the blood by using the lining of the abdomen as a filter. A cleansing solution Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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.
polyunsaturated fats
a type of fat that comes from vegetables.
polyuria
(pah-lee-YOOR-ee-ah): excessive urination; may be a sign of diabetes.
postprandial blood glucose
(post-PRAN-dee-ul): the blood glucose level taken 1 to 2 hours after eating.
Prandin
Brand name for Repaglinide .
prediabetes
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 Read more»
preeclampsia
a condition that some women with diabetes have during the late stages of pregnancy. Two signs of this condition are high blood pressure and swelling because Read more»
premixed insulin
a commercially produced combination of two different types of insulin . See 50/50 insulin , 70/30 insulin and 75/25 insulin.
preprandial blood glucose
(pree-PRAN-dee-ul): the blood glucose level taken before eating.
prognosis
telling a person now what is likely to happen in the future because of having a disease.
proinsulin
(proh-IN-suh-lin): the substance made first in the pancreas and then broken into several pieces to become insulin .
proliferative retinopathy
(pro-LIH-fur-ah-tiv 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, Read more»
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 .
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
renal
(REE-nal): having to do with the kidneys . A renal disease is a disease of the kidneys. Renal failure means the kidneys have Read more»
renal threshold 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 Read more»
retina
(REH-ti-nuh): the light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the back of the eye.
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 Read more»
saccharin
(SAK-ah-rin): a sweetener with no calories and no nutritional value.
saturated fat
is fat that consists of triglycerides containing only saturated fatty acid radicals. There are several kinds of naturally-occurring saturated fatty acids, which Read more»
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 Read more»
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a medication used to control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes, reduce the risk of stroke, heart Read more»
sharps container
a container for disposal of used needles and syringes ; often made of hard plastic so that needles cannot poke through.
shock
a severe condition that disturbs the body. A person with diabetes can go into shock when the level of blood glucose (sugar) drops suddenly. See Read more»
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 Read more»
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 effect, also called rebound hyperglycemia:
(suh-MOH-jee): when the blood glucose level swings high following hypoglycemia . The Somogyi effect may follow an untreated hypoglycemic episode during the night and is caused Read more»
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 Read more»
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
Brand name for 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 Read more»
subcutaneous injection
(sub-kyoo-TAY-nee-us): putting a fluid into the tissue under the skin with a needle and syringe .
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 Read more»
sugar
1. A class of carbohydrates with a sweet taste; includes glucose , fructose , and sucrose . 2. A term used to refer to blood glucose . Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
systemic
a word used to describe conditions that affect the entire body. Diabetes is a systemic disease because it involves many parts of the Read more»
team management
a diabetes treatment approach in which medical care is provided by a team of health care professionals including a doctor, a dietitian , Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
Tolinase
Brand name for Tolazamide .
toxemia of pregnancy
a condition in pregnant women in which poisons such as the body’s own waste products build up and may cause harm to Read more»
transaturated (trans) fat
is the common name for a type of unsaturated fat with trans-isomer fatty acid(s). Trans fats may be monounsaturated or polyunsaturated but Read more»
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
UKPDS
Abbreviation for United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study .
ulcer
(UL-sur): a deep open sore or break in the skin.
ultralente insulin
(UL-truh-LEN-tay): 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 Read more»
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 Read more»
unsaturated fat
is a fat or fatty acid in which there are one or more double bonds in the fatty acid chain.
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
urine
the liquid waste product filtered from the blood by the kidneys , stored in the bladder, and expelled from the body by the Read more»
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 Read more»
urologist
(yoo-RAH-luh-jist): a doctor who treats people who have urinary tract problems. A urologist also cares for men who have problems with their Read more»
vaginitis
an infection of the vagina usually caused by fungus. A woman with this condition may have itching or burning and may notice Read more»
vascular
(VAS-kyoo-ler): relating to the body’s blood vessels .
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 Read more»
very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol
(VLDL): 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 Read more»
vitreous humor
(VIH-tree-us): the clear gel that lies behind the eye’s lens and in front of the retina .
void
to urinate; to empty the bladder.
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 Read more»
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 Read more»
