Diabetes Flashcards
Type 1 Diabetes
Lack of insulin production by the beta cells of the pancreas
Type 2 Diabetes
Insulin resistance at the target cells (high insulin levels)
Signs and symptoms of diabetes
Polyuria, polyphagia, polydipsia, hyperglycaemia, weight loss
Hypoglycaemia vs Hyperglycaemia
Hypo - fatigue, hunger, headache, tachycardia, irritability
Hyper - frequent urination, blurred vision, decreased HR, increased thirst
What is HbA1c?
Haemoglobin A1c, minor component of RBC to which glucose is bound.
How many weeks is HbA1c tested over?
4-6 weeks (life of RBC)
Why is HbA1c tested?
To determine how much glucose is circulating in the blood
What is insulin?
A hormone secreted by the beta cells of the pancreas.
What stimulates the release of insulin?
Glucose
What does insulin initiate?
Glucose uptake by muscles, liver and adipose tissue
What group of people are insulin dependent?
Type 1 - due to lack of insulin production
Why do type 2 diabetics feel as though they have “more energy” after they start. insulin therapy?
Extra insulin helps the blood glucose move into your muscles and cells to be used for more energy.
Normal HbA1c levels
53mmol/L or below
Why can’t insulin be taken as a tablet?
Because normal digestion destroys it.
