Diabetes Mellitus Flashcards
List the two types of diabetes
Diabetes 1 (because of diet)
Diabetes 2 (inherited)
Describe diabetes mellitus 1
It arises because of diet.
It is usually in children under 20 years.
There is insufficient production of insulin.
Describe diabetes mellitus 2.
It is inherited.
It is mostly in adults over 40 years.
There are normal amounts of insulin produced but the insulin does not work.
List the symptoms of diabetes.
-Polyuria
-Polydipsia
-Polyphagia
-Weight loss
What are the symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis?
-abdominal pain
-nausea and vomitting
-reduced level of consciousness.
How do we test for Diabetes?
By Fasting Blood Sugar Test.
Describe a Fasting Blood Sugar Test
It is a test used to measure the amount of glucose in the blood after a period of fasting for about 8-12hours.
How do you prepare for the Fasting Blood Sugar Test?
-Do not eat anything except for water for at least 8 hours before the test.
-Avoid alcohol or sugary drinks the day before the test.
-Inform the doctor about any medication you are taking as they may affect the results.
What is the normal blood sugar level?
3.5 to 6 mmol/L (63-108mg/dL)
What are the complications of Diabetes?
-diabetic ketoacidosis
-hypertension
-high serum cholesterol
-heart attack (Coronary Heart Disease)
-heart failure
-strokes
-kidney failure
-blindness
What is the scientific name of kidney failure?
Nephropathy
What is the scientific name of blindness due to diabetes?
Diabetic Retinopathy
What are the investigations of Diabetes?
-Full Blood Count
-Chest X-Ray
-Blood Gases
How do you prevent Diabetes?
-avoid sedentary lifestyle
-regular exercise
-doing the fasting blood sugar test once in a while.
-reducing weight.
