Seen component Q4 Flashcards
What is polyuria?
Frequent urination caused by the kidneys working harder to eliminate excess glucose from the blood.
Why do prediabetic individuals often urinate more frequently?
Because the kidneys are trying to remove the excess glucose from the bloodstream.
What does polydipsia mean in the context of prediabetes?
Increased thirst caused by dehydration from frequent urination due to high blood sugar.
How does high blood sugar lead to increased thirst?
Excess glucose causes more urination, leading to dehydration, which triggers thirst.
What is polyphagia?
Excessive hunger due to cells being deprived of glucose.
Why might someone with prediabetes feel hungrier than normal?
Because their cells aren’t getting enough glucose, prompting the body to seek more food.
How can fatigue be a symptom of prediabetes?
Fatigue occurs because the body can’t efficiently use glucose for energy.
Why does inefficient glucose utilization cause tiredness?
The body lacks the energy it would normally get from glucose, resulting in fatigue.
What is the link between high blood sugar and blurred vision?
High glucose can damage eye blood vessels and cause fluid shifts, affecting focus.
How does fluid in the eyes affect vision in prediabetes?
It causes changes in the lens shape, making it harder to focus, leading to blurred vision.
What are the three classic symptoms of prediabetes starting with ‘poly-‘?
- Polyuria
- Polydipsia
- Polyphagia
What does the term ‘prediabetes’ refer to?
A stage where blood glucose is elevated but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis.
Why is early recognition of prediabetic symptoms important?
It allows for lifestyle changes to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.
What lifestyle changes can help prevent progression from prediabetes to diabetes?
- Healthy diet
- Regular exercise
- Weight management
What system is primarily responsible for the symptoms seen in prediabetes?
The endocrine system, particularly issues with insulin and glucose metabolism.
What organ is responsible for filtering excess glucose into the urine?
The kidneys.
What happens to blood glucose levels in prediabetes?
They are elevated but not yet in the diabetic range.
Why does glucose accumulate in the blood in prediabetes?
Due to insulin resistance or impaired insulin production.
What role does insulin play in glucose metabolism?
Insulin helps cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream for energy.
Why might someone with prediabetes feel tired after eating?
Because their cells can’t efficiently use the glucose from food for energy.
How does dehydration develop in someone with prediabetes?
Through increased urination caused by high blood sugar.
What is the potential consequence of ignoring early prediabetes symptoms?
Progression to type 2 diabetes and associated complications.
What causes damage to the eyes in prediabetes?
Chronically high glucose damaging blood vessels and causing fluid shifts.
Can prediabetes be reversed?
Yes, with early lifestyle interventions and management.