Glucose Regulation

Question 1

Definition of glucose regulation

Answer 1

Glucose regulation is the process of maintaining optimal blood glucose levels. The ultimate and result of glucose metabolism is cellular use of glucose for energy - ATP synthesis

Question 2

Definition of Glycogenolysis 

Answer 2

Refers to the breakdown of glycogen to glucose

Question 3

Definition of glycogen

Answer 3

Glycogen is the major form of stored glucose, primarily in the liver and muscle cells

Question 4

Definition of Glyconeogenesis

Answer 4

Refers to the process of producing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources – proteins and fats

Question 5

Definition of counter regulatory hormones

Answer 5

Released in response to cellular deficiency of glucose. Glucagon, cortisol, growth hormones, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. Counter regulatory hormones all lead to utilization of glycogen stores. These hormones are also increased with stress related conditions, both physical and emotional and are often referred to as stress hormones.

Question 6

Definition of insulin resistance

Answer 6

Refers to a state in which the body cells respond abnormally to the signaling action of insulin. In other words, there is not a problem with insulin supply, but, rather, with how the cell response to insulin signaling due the reduction of insulin receptors or glucose transport of molecules, resulting in sluggish glucose uptake by the cell.

Question 7

Euglycemia

Answer 7

Normal blood glucose levels
BG 70-140mg/dL normal
(pre and post pea dial)

Normal

Question 8

Hyperglycemia

Answer 8

High blood glucose levels
Post-Prandial BG >140mg/dL
(severe >180mg/dL)

Abnormal

Question 9

Hypoglycemia

Answer 9

Low blood glucose levels
BG <70mg/dL
(severe <50mg/dL)

Abnormal

Question 10

Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia

Answer 10

Reduced cognition, tremors, diaphoresis, weakness, hunger, headache, irritability, seizure

Question 11

Signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia

Answer 11

Polyuria, polydipsia, dehydration, fatigue, fruity odor to breath, Kussmaul breathing, weight loss, hunger, poor wound healing.

Question 12

Hormone to lower glucose

Answer 12

Insulin

Question 13

Counter regulatory hormones to raise glucose

Answer 13

Glucagon and cortisol

Question 14

Retinopathy

Answer 14

Consequence of hyperglycemia. Retinopathy is the leading cause of preventable blindness. It is caused by damage to the blood vessels of light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye/the retina. Symptoms of retinopathy include blurred vision, & a sudden shower of black floaters in your vision.

Question 15

Nephropathy

Answer 15

A consequence of hyperglycemia.
The deterioration of kidney function

Question 16

Peripheral neuropathy

Answer 16

A consequence of hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia is toxic to nerves, resulting in nerve damage and leading to peripheral neuropathy causing symptoms such as burning and numbness in the lower extremities.

Question 17

Consequences of hypoglycemia

Answer 17

Nervousness, irritability, diaphoresis, anxiety, palpitations, neurological changes, seizures, unconsciousness, death.
Because the brain depends on glucose as its only source of fuel, hypoglycemia can progress from mild symptoms to neurological changes, seizures, loss of consciousness, and death.