Diabetes Flashcards
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition in which the amount of glucose in the blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly.
Why might the body not be able to use glucose in the blood properly?
The pancreas does not produce any insulin, or not enough, to help glucose enter the body’s cells.
Or the insulin produced does not work properly, which is known as insulin resistance.
What is insulin?
Insulin is the hormone produced by the pancreas that allows glucose to enter the body’s cells.
What is insulin used for?
To convert glucose into energy.
What is type 1 diabetes?
An auto-immune condition that is usually diagnosed in childhood.
How can someone who has type 1 diabetes control their condition?
Eat a balanced diet and engage in regular exercise.
What is the issue with insulin in type 2 diabetes?
The body makes little or no insulin and daily injections are needed to sustain life.
What is type 1 diabetes known as?
Insulin Dependent Diabetes
What is the issue with insulin in type 2 diabetes?
The body does not make enough insulin or the insulin which is produced dos not work effectively.
When does type 2 diabetes develop?
Gradually as people get older, usually after the age of 40.
What is type 2 diabetes known as?
Non-insulin Dependent Diabetes
What are the risk factors for type 1 diabetes?
The cause is uncertain.
It is thought to occur when insulin-producing cells in the body are gradually destroyed, possibly triggered by a virus or other type of infection.
Who is most likely at risk of developing type 1 diabetes?
Those who have a relative with diabetes.
What are the risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes?
Age
Obesity
Inactivity
Fat distribution
Family history
How does age increase your risk of type 2 diabetes?
Increases with age. Mainly those over 40.
What waist measurement for woman increases your risk of type 2 diabetes?
31.5 inches +
What waist measurement for asian men increases your risk of type 2 diabetes?
35 inches +
What waist measurement for white or black men increases your risk of type 2 diabetes?
37 inches +
How does inactivity increase your risk of type 2 diabetes?
Being inactive increases your risk of being overweight.
How does fat distribution increase your risk of type 2 diabetes?
Those with fat around the stomach and chest, ‘apple shaped’ individuals, are at a greater risk.
What other health problems may increase your risk of type 2 diabetes?
Circulation problems
Had a heart attack or stroke
High blood pressure
What are the effects of diabetes?
- Increased risk of heart attack or stroke
- Poor circulation to the legs
- Damage to the eyesight, possible blindness
- Damage to kidneys
What are the symptoms of diabetes?
Passing URINE more frequently, especially at night
Increased THIRST
Extreme TIREDNESS
Unexplained WEIGHT LOSS
GENITAL itching
SLOW HEALING of cuts and wounds
BLURRED vision
What should a diabetics diet consist of?
Low sugar
Low fat
Plenty of water
High in soluble fibre
Plenty of fruit and vegetables
