Diabetes- diagnosis, investigation

Question 1

what are some common symptoms of DM?

Answer 1

• polyuria
• polydispsia
• weight loss
• fatigue
• blurred vision

Question 2

what is polyuria?

Answer 2

due to osmotic diuresis when blood glucose exceeds renal threshold (excessive trips to the toilet)

Question 3

what is polydipsia?

Answer 3

due to resulting fluid and electrolyte loss= being thirsty

Question 4

what is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

Answer 4

-when there’s not enough insulin in the body and ketones start t build up
-normally the first presentation if diagnosis not made from common symptoms or interruption of insulin supply in a diagnosed type 1 diabetic or due to intercurrent illness e.g. infection or diarrhoea in type 1
medical emergency

Question 5

what are the symptoms of DKA?

Answer 5

• hyperventilations
• nausea and vomiting
• dehydration
• weakness
• ketone breath
• reduced consciousness

Question 6

what is hyperosmolar non-ketotic syndrome (HONK)?

Answer 6

like DKA potentially first presentation in type 2.

no significant ketosis and no acidosis, medical emergency

Question 7

what is HbA1c?

Answer 7

its a blood test

can be used as part of diagnosis of DM in type 2 DM