| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Diabetes Pills |
Pills or capsules that are taken by mouth to help lower the blood glucose level. These pills may work for people whose bodies are still making insulin. |
| Diabetic Eye Disease |
A disease of the small blood vessels of the retina of the eye in people with diabetes. In this disease, the vessels swell and leak liquid into the retina, blurring the vision and sometimes leading to blindness. |
| Diabetic Ketoacidosis |
High blood glucose with the presence of ketones in the urine and bloodstream, often caused by taking too little insulin or during illness. |
| Diabetic Kidney Disease |
Damage to the cells or blood vessels of the kidney. |
| Diabetic Nerve Damage |
Damage to the nerves of a person with diabetes. Nerve damage may affect the feet and hands, as well as major organs. |
| Dialysis |
A method for removing waste from the blood when the kidneys can no longer do the job. |
| Dilated Eye Exam |
Eye drops are placed in the eyes to widen the pupils to see the retina better. The eye doctor will look for changes in the retina in the back of the eyes. |
| Diphtheria |
An acute, contagious disease that causes fever and problems for the heart and nervous system. |
| EKG |
A test that measures the heart’s action. Also called an electrocardiogram. |
| Gestational Diabetes |
A type of diabetes that can occur in pregnant women who have not been known to have diabetes before. |
| Glucagon |
A hormone that raises the blood glucose level. |
| Glucose |
A sugar in our blood and a source of energy for our bodies. |
| Hyperglycemia |
A condition that occurs in people with diabetes when their blood glucose levels are too high. Symptoms include having to urinate often, being very thirsty, and losing weight. |
| Hypoglycemia |
A condition that occurs in people with diabetes when their blood glucose levels are too low. Symptoms include feeling anxious or confused, feeling numb in the arms and hands, and shaking or feeling dizzy. |
| Insulin |
A hormone that helps the body use blood glucose for energy. The beta cells of the pancreas make insulin. When people with diabetes can’t make enough insulin, they may have to inject it from another source. |
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