lancet:

a
spring-loaded device used to prick the skin with a small
needle to obtain a drop of blood for blood glucose monitoring.

laser
surgery treatment:

a
type of therapy that uses a strong beam of light to treat
a damaged area. The beam of light is called a laser. A
laser is sometimes used to seal blood vessels in the eye
of a person with diabetes. See photocoagulation.

latent
autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA):

a
condition in which type 1 diabetes develops in adults.

LDL
cholesterol (kuh-LESS-tuh-rawl), stands for low-density
lipoprotein (LIP-oh-PRO-teen) cholesterol:

a
fat found in the blood that takes cholesterol around the
body to where it is needed for cell repair and also deposits
it on the inside of artery walls. Sometimes called “bad” cholesterol.

lente
(LEN-tay) insulin:

an
intermediate-acting insulin. On average, lente insulin
starts to lower blood glucose levels within 1 to 2 hours
after injection. It has its strongest effect 8 to 12 hours
after injection but keeps working for 18 to 24 hours after
injection. Also called L insulin.

limited
joint mobility:

a
condition in which the joints swell and the skin of the
hand becomes thick, tight, and waxy, making the joints
less able to move. It may affect the fingers and arms
as well as other joints in the body.

lipid
(LIP-id):

a
term for fat in the body. Lipids can be broken down by
the body and used for energy.

lipid
profile:

a
blood test that measures total cholesterol, triglycerides,
and HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is then calculated
from the results. A lipid profile is one measure of a
person’s risk of cardiovascular disease.

lipoatrophy
(LIP-oh-AT-ruh-fee):

loss
of fat under the skin resulting in small dents. Lipoatrophy
may be caused by repeated injections of insulin in the
same spot.

lipodystrophy
(LIP-oh-DIH-struh-fee):

defect
in the breaking down or building up of fat below the surface
of the skin, resulting in lumps or small dents in the
skin surface. (See lipohypertrophy or lipoatrophy.) Lipodystrophy
may be caused by repeated injections of insulin in the
same spot.

lipohypertrophy
(LIP-oh-hy-PER-truh-fee):

buildup
of fat below the surface of the skin, causing lumps. Lipohypertrophy
may be caused by repeated injections of insulin in the
same spot.

lispro
(LYZ-proh) insulin:

a
rapid-acting insulin. On average, lispro insulin starts
to lower blood glucose within 5 minutes after injection.
It has its strongest effect 30 minutes to 1 hour after
injection but keeps working for 3 hours after injection.

liver:

an
organ in the body that changes food into energy, removes
alcohol and poisons from the blood, and makes bile, a
substance that breaks down fats and helps rid the body
of wastes.

macrosomia
(mack-roh-SOH-mee-ah):

abnormally
large; in diabetes, refers to abnormally large babies
that may be born to women with diabetes.

macrovascular
(mack-roh-VASK-yoo-ler) disease:

disease
of the large blood vessels, such as those found in the
heart. Lipids and blood clots build up in the large blood
vessels and can cause atherosclerosis, coronary heart
disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.

macula
(MACK-yoo-la):

the
part of the retina in the eye used for reading and seeing
fine detail.

macular
(MACK-yoo-lur) edema (eh-DEE-mah):

swelling
of the macula.

maturity-onset
diabetes of the young (MODY):

a
kind of type 2 diabetes that accounts for 1 to 5 percent
of people with diabetes. Of the six forms identified,
each is caused by a defect in a single gene.

meglitinide
(meh-GLIH-tin-ide):

a
class of oral medicine for type 2 diabetes that lowers
blood glucose by helping the pancreas make more insulin
right after meals. (Generic name: repaglinide.)

metabolic
syndrome:

the
tendency of several conditions to occur together, including
obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes or pre-diabetes,
hypertensio, and high lipids.

metabolism:

the
term for the way cells chemically change food so that
it can be used to store or use energy and make the proteins,
fats, and sugars needed by the body.

metformin
(met-FOR-min):

an
oral medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. It lowers
blood glucose by reducing the amount of glucose produced
by the liver and helping the body respond better to the
insulin made in the pancreas. Belongs to the class of
medicines called biguanides. (Brand names: Glucophage,
Glucophage XR; an ingredient in Glucovance.)

mg/dL:

milligrams
(MILL-ih-grams) per deciliter (DESS-ih-lee-tur), a unit
of measure that shows the concentration of a substance
in a specific amount of fluid. In the United States, blood
glucose test results are reported as mg/dL. Medical journals
and other countries use millimoles per liter (mmol/L).
To convert to mg/dL from mmol/L, multiply mmol/L by 18.
Example: 10 mmol/L × 18 = 180 mg/dL.

microalbumin
(MY-kro-al-BYOO-min):

small
amounts of the protein called albumin in the urine detectable
with a special lab test.

microaneurysm
(MY-kro-AN-yeh-rizm):

a
small swelling that forms on the side of tiny blood vessels.
These small swellings may break and allow blood to leak
into nearby tissue. People with diabetes may get microaneurysms
in the retina of the eye.

Micronase:

see
glyburide.

microvascular
(MY-kro-VASK-yoo-ler) disease:

disease
of the smallest blood vessels, such as those found in
the eyes, nerves, and kidneys. The walls of the vessels
become abnormally thick but weak. Then they bleed, leak
protein, and slow the flow of blood to the cells.

miglitol
(MIG-lih-tall):

an
oral medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. It blocks
the enzymes that digest starches in food. The result is
a slower and lower rise in blood glucose throughout the
day, especially right after meals. Belongs to the class
of medicines called alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. (Brand
name: Glyset.)

mixed
dose:

a
combination of two types of insulin in one injection.
Usually a rapid- or short-acting insulin is combined with
a longer acting insulin (such as NPH insulin) to provide
both short-term and long-term control of blood glucose
levels.

mmol/L:

millimoles
per liter, a unit of measure that shows the concentration
of a substance in a specific amount of fluid. In most
of the world, except for the United States, blood glucose
test results are reported as mmol/L. In the United States,
milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) is used. To convert to
mmol/L from mg/dL, divide mg/dL by 18. Example: 180 mg/dL ÷ 18 = 10 mmol/L.

nateglinide
(neh-TEH-glin-ide):

an
oral medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. It lowers
blood glucose levels by helping the pancreas make more
insulin right after meals. Belongs to the class of medicines
called D-phenylalanine derivatives. (Brand name: Starlix.)

necrobiosis
(NEK-roh-by-OH-sis) lipoidica (lih-POY-dik-ah) diabeticorum
(DY-uh-bet-ih-KOR-um):

a
skin condition usually on the lower part of the legs.
Lesions can be small or extend over a large area. They
are usually raised, yellow, and waxy in appearance and
often have a purple border.

neovascularization
(NEE-oh-VASK-yoo-ler-ih-ZAY-shun):

the
growth of new, small blood vessels. In the retina, this
may lead to loss of vision or blindness.

nephrologist
(neh-FRAH-luh-jist):

a
doctor who treats people who have kidney problems.

nephropathy
(neh-FROP-uh-thee):

disease
of the kidneys. Hyperglycemia and hypertension can damage
the kidneys’ glomeruli. When the kidneys are damaged,
protein leaks out of the kidneys into the urine. Damaged
kidneys can no longer remove waste and extra fluids from
the bloodstream.

nerve
conduction studies:

tests
used to measure for nerve damage; one way to diagnose
neuropathy.

nerve
disease:

see
neuropathy.

neurologist
(ne-RAH-luh-jist):

a
doctor who specializes in problems of the nervous system,
such as neuropathy.

neuropathy
(ne-ROP-uh-thee):

disease
of the nervous system. The three major forms in people
with diabetes are peripheral neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy,
and mononeuropathy. The most common form is peripheral
neuropathy, which affects mainly the legs and feet.

NIDDM:

see
noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.

noninsulin-dependent
diabetes mellitus (NIDDM):

former
term for type 2 diabetes.

noninvasive
(NON-in-VAY-siv) blood glucose monitoring:

measuring
blood glucose without pricking the finger to obtain a
blood sample.

NPH
insulin:

an
intermediate-acting insulin; NPH stands for neutral protamine
Hagedorn. On average, NPH insulin starts to lower blood
glucose within 1 to 2 hours after injection. It has its
strongest effect 6 to 10 hours after injection but keeps
working about 10 hours after injection. Also called N
insulin.

nutritionist
(noo-TRIH-shuh-nist):

a
person with training in nutrition; may or may not have
specialized training and qualifications. See dietitian.

obesity:

a
condition in which a greater than normal amount of fat
is in the body; more severe than overweight; having a
body mass index of 30 or more.

obstetrician
(ob-steh-TRIH-shun):

a
doctor who treats pregnant women and delivers babies.

ophthalmologist
(AHF-thal-MAH-luh-jist):

a
medical doctor who diagnoses and treats all eye diseases
and eye disorders. Opthalmologists can also prescribe
glasses and contact lenses.

optician
(ahp-TI-shun):

a
health care professional who dispenses glasses and lenses.
An optician also makes and fits contact lenses.

optometrist
(ahp-TAH-meh-trist):

a
primary eye care provider who prescribes glasses and contact
lenses. Optometrists can diagnose and treat certain eye
conditions and diseases.

oral
glucose tolerance test (OGTT):

a
test to diagnose pre-diabetes and diabetes. The oral glucose
tolerance test is given by a health care professional
after an overnight fast. A blood sample is take, then
the patient drinks a high-glucose beverage. Blood samples
are taken at intervals for 2 to 3 hours. Test results
are compared with a standard and show how the body uses
glucose over time.

oral
hypoglycemic (hy-po-gly-SEE-mik) agents:

medicines
taken by mouth by people with type 2 diabetes to keep
blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible. Classes
of oral hypoglycemic agents are alpha-glucosidase inhibitors,
biguanides, D-phenylalanine derivatives, meglitinides,
sulfonylureas, and thiazolidinediones.

Orinase:

see
tolbutamide.

overweight:

an
above-normal body weight; having a body mass index of
25 to 29.9.

Glossary of terms that you will come across in regards to diabetes and diabetes management.

The glossary contains explanations of words that you may come across in everyday life as a diabetic or a diabetic carer. Simply click on a letter to view the definitions under that character.

Pharmacies play an important role in the care of people diagnosed with diabetes, as well as those at risk of developing the disease.

In fact in recent years, the role of pharmacists in the multidisciplinary approach to diabetes care has expanded in countries throughout the world.

Pharmacists and their staff see people with diabetes much more frequently than other healthcare professionals and this means they can:

• Identify individuals at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, offering them lifestyle advice and appropriate intervention to reduce their risk.
• Identify people with undiagnosed diabetes and refer them to GPs and other healthcare professionals for a diabetes test.
• Answer questions about diabetes and related health conditions.
• Offer guidance on the proper use of medications and other supplies used to treat diabetes.
• Reduce the risk of complications through early detection of diabetes and by contributing to the management of the risk factors for complications.

What diabetes care products do pharmacies offer?

Most pharmacies on the high street, including Boots, Lloyds Pharmacy chemists, offer a wide range of products to help people with diabetes manage their condition and prevent complications.

These typically include:

• Blood glucose monitoring systems – blood glucose meters, test strips and lancets
• Foot care products – foot care accessories, foot creams and heal balms
• Skin care products – moisturisers and itch relief creams
• Diet and weight loss products – Slimming aids, nutritional supplements and vitamins
• Glucose tablets and treatments
• Dental health products – toothpaste, toothbrushes and mouthwash

Some pharmacies also provide a diabetes screening service, working together with local professional health carers and diabetes associations to encourage people to have their diabetes risk assessed.

No terms in the Diabetes Glossary for Y.

No terms in the Diabetes Glossary for Z.

team
management:

a
diabetes treatment approach in which medical care is provided
by a team of health care professionals including a doctor,
a dietitia, a nurse, a diabetes educator, and others.
The team act as advisers to the person with diabetes.

thiazolidinedione
(THIGH-uh-ZOH-lih-deen-DYE-own):

a
class of oral medicine for type 2 diabetes that helps
insulin take glucose from the blood into the cells for
energy by making cells more sensitive to insulin. (Generic
names: pioglitazone and rosiglitazone.)

tight
control:

see
intensive therapy.

tolazamide
(tohl-AH-zah-mide):

an
oral medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. It lowers
blood glucose by helping the pancreas make more insulin
and by helping the body better use the insulin it makes.
Belongs to the class of medicines called sulfonylureas.
(Brand name: Tolinase.)

tolbutamide
(tohl-BYOO-tah-mide):

an
oral medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. It lowers
blood glucose by helping the pancreas make more insulin
and by helping the body better use the insulin it makes.
Belongs to the class of medicines called sulfonylureas.
(Brand name: Orinase.)

Tolinase:

see
tolazamide.

triglyceride
(try-GLISS-er-ide):

the
storage form of fat in the body. High triglyceride levels
may occur when diabetes is out of control.

type
1 diabetes:

a
condition characterized by high blood glucose levels caused
by a total lack of insulin. Occurs when the body’s immune
system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the
pancreas and destroys them. The pancreas then produces
little or no insulin. Type 1 diabetes develops most often
in young people but can appear in adults.

type
2 diabetes:

a
condition characterized by high blood glucose levels caused
by either a lack of insulin or the body’s inability to
use insulin efficiently. Type 2 diabetes develops most
often in middle-aged and older adults but can appear in
young people.

type
I diabetes:

former
term for type 1 diabetes.

type
II diabetes:

former
term for type 2 diabetes.

UKPDS:

see
United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study.

ulcer
(UL-sur):

a
deep open sore or break in the skin.

ultralente
(UL-truh-LEN-tay) insulin:

long-acting
insulin. On average, ultralente insulin starts to lower
blood glucose within 4 to 6 hours after injection. It
has its strongest effect 10 to 18 hours after injection
but keeps working 24 to 28 hours after injection. Also
called U insulin.

unit
of insulin:

the
basic measure of insulin. U-100 insulin means 100 units
of insulin per milliliter (mL) or cubic centimeter (cc)
of solution. Most insulin made today in the United States
is U-100.

United
Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS):

a
study in England, conducted from 1977 to 1997 in people
with type 2 diabetes. The study showed that if people
lowered their blood glucose, they lowered their risk of
eye disease and kidney damage. In addition, those with
type 2 diabetes and hypertension who lowered their blood
pressure also reduced their risk of stroke, eye damage,
and death from long-term complications.

U-100:

see
unit of insulin.

urea
(yoo-REE-uh):

a
waste product found in the blood that results from the
normal breakdown of protein in the liver. Urea is normally
removed from the blood by the kidneys and then excreted
in the urine.

uremia
(yoo-REE-mee-ah):

the
illness associated with the buildup of urea in the blood
because the kidneys are not working effectively. Symptoms
include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weakness,
and mental confusion.

urine:

the
liquid waste product filtered from the blood by the kidneys,
stored in the bladder, and expelled from the body by the
act of urinating.

urine
testing:

also
called urinalysis; a test of a urine sample to diagnose
diseases of the urinary system and other body systems.
In people with diabetes, a doctor may check for:

1.
Glucose, a sign of diabetes or other diseases.

2. Protei, a sign of kidney damage, or nephropathy. (Also
see albuminuria.)

3. White blood cells, a sign of urinary tract infection.

4. Ketones, a sign of diabetic ketoacidosis or other conditions.

Urine
may also be checked for signs of bleeding. Some tests
use a single urine sample. For others, 24-hour collection
may be needed. And sometimes a sample is “cultured”
to see exactly what type of bacteria grows.

urologist
(yoo-RAH-luh-jist):

a
doctor who treats people who have urinary tract problems.
A urologist also cares for men who have problems with
their genital organs, such as impotence.

background
retinopathy (REH-tih-NOP-uh-thee):

a
type of damage to the


retina


of the eye marked by bleeding, fluid accumulatio, and
abnormal dilation of the


blood vessels

Background retinopathy is an early stage of


diabetic
retinopathy

Also called simple or nonproliferative
(non-pro-LIF-er-uh-tiv) retinopathy.

BAMS:

acronym
for Batchelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery.

basal
rate:

a
steady trickle of low levels of longer-acting


insulin


,
such as that used in


insulin pumps

beta
cell:

a cell that makes


insulin

Beta cells are located in the


islets


of the


pancreas

BCEN:

acronym
for Board Certified in Emergency Nursing.

BCNP:

acronym
for Board Certified in Nuclear Pharmacy.

BCNSP:

acronym
for Board Certified in Nutrition Support Pharmacy.

BCPP:

acronym
for Board Certified in Psychiatric Pharmacy.

BCPS:

acronym
for Board Certified in Pharmacotherapy.

beta
cell:

a
cell that makes


insulin


Beta
cells are located in the


islets


of the


pancreas

biguanide
(by-GWAH-nide):

a
class of oral medicine used to treat


type
2 diabetes


that lowers


blood
glucose


by reducing the amount of


glucose


produced by the


liver


and
by helping the body respond better to


insulin

(Generic name: metformin.)

blood
glucose:

the
main


sugar


found in the blood
and the body’s main source of energy. Also called blood
sugar.

blood
glucose level:

the
amount of


glucose


in a given
amount of blood. It is noted in milligrams in a deciliter,
or


mg/dL

blood
glucose meter:

a
small, portable machine used by people with diabetes
to check their


blood glucose levels

After pricking the skin with a


lancet


,
one places a drop of blood on a test strip in the machine.
The meter (or monitor) soon displays the blood glucose
level as a number on the meter’s digital display.

blood
glucose monitoring:

checking


blood glucose level


on a regular
basis in order to manage diabetes. A


blood
glucose meter


(or blood glucose test strips
that change color when touched by a blood sample) is
needed for frequent blood glucose monitoring.

blood
pressure:

the
force of blood exerted on the inside walls of


blood
vessels


Blood pressure is expressed as
a ratio (example: 120/80, read as “120 over 80”). The
first number is the systolic (sis-TAH-lik) pressure,
or the pressure when the heart pushes blood out into
the


arteries


The second number
is the diastolic (DY-uh-STAH-lik) pressure, or the pressure
when the heart rests.

blood
sugar:

see


blood glucose

blood
sugar level:

see


blood glucose level

blood
urea (yoo-REE-uh) nitrogen (NY-truh-jen) (BUN):

a
waste product in the blood from the breakdown of


protein

The


kidneys


filter blood to
remove


urea


As kidney function
decreases, the BUN levels increase.

blood
vessels:

tubes
that carry blood to and from all parts of the body.
The three main types of blood vessels are


arteries


,


veins


, and


capillaries

BMI:

see


body mass index

body
mass index (BMI):

a
measure used to evaluate body weight relative to a person’s
height. BMI is used to find out if a person is underweight,
normal weight, overweight, or obese.

To
find BMI: Multiply body weight in pounds by 703. Divide
that number by height in inches. Divide that number
by height in inches again. Find the resulting number
in the chart below.

Below 18.5 is underweight.

18.5-24.9 is normal.

25.0-29.9 is overweight.

30.0 and above is obese.

bolus
(BOH-lus):

an
extra amount of


insulin


taken
to cover an expected rise in


blood glucose


,
often related to a meal or snack.

borderline
diabetes:

a term used for prediabetes. see


prediabetes

brittle
diabetes:

a
term used when a person’s


blood glucose
level


moves often from low to high and
from high to low.

BS:

acronym
for Batchelor of Science Degree.*

BSN:

acronym
for Batchelor of Science Degreen, Nursing.

BUN:

see


blood urea nitrogen

bunion
(BUN-yun):

a
bulge on the first joint of the big toe, caused by the
swelling of a fluid sac under the skin. This spot can
become red, sore, and infected.

vascular (VAS-kyoo-ler):

relating to the body’s blood vessels.

vein:

a blood vessel that carries blood to the
heart.

very-long-acting insulin:

a type of insulin that starts to lower
blood glucose within 1 hour after injection and keeps
working evenly for 24 hours after injection. See glargine
insulin.

very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)
cholesterol:

a form of cholesterol in the blood; high
levels may be related to cardiovascular disease.

vitrectomy (vih-TREK-tuh-mee):

surgery to restore sight in which the
surgeon removes the cloudy vitreous humor in the eye and
replaces it with a salt solution.

vitreous (VIH-tree-us) humor:

the clear gel that lies behind the eye’s
lens and in front of the retina.

VLDL cholesterol:

see very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

void:

to urinate; to empty the bladder.

CA:

acronym
for Certified Acupuncturist.

CAc:

acronym
for Certified Acupuncturist.

callus:

a
small area of skin, usually on the foot, that has become
thick and hard from rubbing or pressure.

calorie:

a
unit representing the energy provided by food.


Carbohydrate


,


protein


,


fat


,
and alcohol provide calories in the diet. Carbohydrate
and protein have 4 calories per gram, fat has 9 calories
per gram, and alcohol has 7 calories per gram.

CAMT:

acronym
for Certified Acupressure Massage Therapist.

CAPA:

acronym
for Certified Ambulatory Perianesthesia Nurse.

capillary
(KAP-ih-lair-ee):

the
smallest of the body’s


blood vessels

Oxygen and


glucose


pass through
capillary walls and enter the cells. Waste products
such as carbon dioxide pass back from the cells into
the blood through capillaries.

capsaicin
(kap-SAY-ih-sin):

an
ingredient in hot peppers that can be found in ointment
form for use on the skin to relieve pain from diabetic


neuropathy

carbohydrate
(kar-boh-HY-drate):

one
of the three main nutrients in food. Foods that provide
carbohydrate are


starches


,
vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and


sugars

carbohydrate
counting:

a
method of meal planning for people with diabetes based
on counting the number of


grams


of


carbohydrate


in food.

cardiologist
(kar-dee-AH-luh-jist):

a
doctor who treats people who have heart problems.

cardiovascular
(KAR-dee-oh-VASK-yoo-ler) disease:

disease
of the heart and


blood vessels


(


arteries


,


veins


,
and


capillaries


).

cataract
(KA-ter-act):

clouding
of the lens of the eye.

CCH:

acronym
for Certified in Classical Homeopathy.

CCNS:

acronym
for Certified Critical Care Nurse Specialist.

CCRC:

acronym
for Canadian Certified Rehabilitation Counsellor.

CCRN:

acronym
for Certified Critical Care Nurse.

CD:

acronym
for Certified Doula.

CDE:

see


certified diabetes educator

CFC:

acronym
for Certified Fitness Consultant (Canada).

cerebrovascular
(seh-REE-broh-VASK-yoo-ler) disease:

damage
to


blood vessels


in the brain.
Vessels can burst and bleed or become clogged with fatty
deposits. When blood flow is interrupted, brain cells
die or are damaged, resulting in a


stroke

certified
diabetes educator (CDE):

a
health care professional with expertise in diabetes
education who has met eligibility requirements and successfully
completed a certification exam. See


diabetes
educator

CGN:

acronym
for Certified Gastroenterology Nurse.

CGP:

acronym
for Certified Geriatric Pharmacist.

CGRN:

acronym
for Certified Gastroenterology Registered Nurse.

CH:

acronym
for Certified Herbalist.

Charcot’s
(shar-KOHZ) foot:

a
condition in which the joints and soft tissue in the
foot are destroyed; it results from damage to the nerves.

cheiroarthropathy
(KY-roh-ar-THRAHP-uh-thee):

see


limited joint mobility

cheiropathy
(ky-RAH-puh-thee):

see


limited joint mobility

CHHP:

acronym
for Certified Holistic Health Practitioner.

chlorpropamide
(klor-PROH-pah-mide):

an
oral medicine used to treat


type 2 diabetes

It lowers


blood glucose


levels
by helping the


pancreas


make
more


insulin


and by helping
the body better use the insulin it makes. Belongs to
the class of medicines called sulfonylureas. (Brand
name: Diabinese.)

cholesterol
(koh-LES-ter-all):

a
type of


fat


produced by the


liver


and found in the blood;
it is also found in some foods. Cholesterol is used
by the body to make


hormones


and build cell walls.

CHom:

acronym
for Certified in Homeopathy.

CHPN:

acronym
for Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse.

chronic:

describes
something that is long-lasting. Opposite of acute.

CHt:

acronym
for Certified Hypnotherapist.

circulation:

the
flow of blood through the body’s


blood vessels


and heart.

CMT:

acronym
for Certified Massage Therapist.

CNM:

acronym
for Certified Nurse Midwife.

CNN:

acronym
for Certified Nephrology Nurse.

COHN:

acronym
for Certified Occupational Health Nurse.

COHN/CM:

acronym
for Certified Occupational Health Nurse Case Manager.

COHN/S:

acronym
for Certified Occupational Health Nurse Specialist.

coma:

a
sleep-like state in which a person is not conscious.
May be caused by


hyperglycemia


(high


blood glucose


) or


hypoglycemia


(low blood glucose) in people with diabetes.

combination
oral medicines:

a
pill that includes two or more different medicines.
See


Glucovance

combination
therapy:

the
use of different medicines together (


oral
hypoglycemic agents


or an oral hypoglycemic
agent and


insulin


) to manage
the


blood glucose


levels of
people with


type 2 diabetes

complications:

harmful
effects of diabetes such as damage to the eyes, heart,


blood vessels


, nervous system,
teeth and gums, feet and skin, or


kidneys

Studies show that keeping


blood glucose


,


blood pressure


, and


low-density
lipoprotein cholesterol levels


close to
normal can help prevent or delay these problems.

congenital
(kun-JEN-ih-tul) defects:

problems
or conditions that are present at birth.

congestive
heart failure:

loss
of the heart’s pumping power, which causes fluids to
collect in the body, especially in the feet and lungs.

conventional
therapy:

a
term used in clinical trials where one group receives
treatment for diabetes in which


A1C


and


blood glucose levels


are kept
at levels based on current practice guidelines. However,
the goal is not to keep blood glucose levels as close
to normal as possible, as is done in


intensive
therapy


Conventional therapy includes
use of medication, meal planning, and exercise, along
with regular visits to health care providers.

coronary
artery disease:

see


coronary heart disease

coronary
(KOR-uh-ner-ee) heart disease:

heart
disease caused by narrowing of the


arteries


that supply blood to the heart. If the blood supply
is cut off the result is a heart attack.

CPAN:

acronym
for Certified Post-Anesthesia Nurse.

CPed:

acronym
for Certified Pedorthist

C-peptide
(see-peptide):

“Connecting
peptide,” a substance the


pancreas


releases into the bloodstream in equal amounts to


insulin

A test of C-peptide levels shows how much insulin the
body is making.

CPHQ:

acronym
for Certified Professional in Health Quality.

CPhT:

acronym
for Certified Pharmacy Technician.

CPHT:

acronym
for Certified Practitioner of Homeopathic Therapeutics.

CPN:

acronym
for Certified Pediatric Nurse.

CPNP:

acronym
for Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.

CPON:

acronym
for Certified Pediatric Oncology Nurse.

creatinine
(kree-AT-ih-nin):

a
waste product from


protein


in the diet and from the muscles of the body. Creatinine
is removed from the body by the


kidneys


;
as kidney disease progresses, the level of creatinine
in the blood increases.

CRNA:

acronym
for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.

CRRN:

acronym
for Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse.

CRRN-A:

acronym
for Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse, Advanced.

CRT:

acronym
for Certified Respiratory Therapist.

CSN:

acronym
for Certified School Nurse.

C-SSWS:

acronym
for Certified School Social Work Specialist.

CST:

acronym
for Certified Surgical Technologist.

CWS:

acronym
for Certified Wound Specialist.

wound care:

steps taken to ensure that a wound such
as a foot ulcer heals correctly. People with diabetes
need to take special precautions so wounds do not become
infected.

DAAPM

acronym
for Diplomate of the American Academy of Pain Management.

DAc:

acronym
for Diplomate in Acupuncture; Doctor of Acupuncture.

DABIM:

acronym
for Diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine.

DABMA:

acronym
for Diplomate of the American Board of Medical
Acupuncture.

DACBN:

acronym
for Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Board of Nutrition.

dawn
phenomenon (feh-NAH-meh-nun):

the
early-morning (4 a.m. to 8 a.m.) rise in


blood
glucose level

DC:

acronym
for Doctor of Chiropractic.

DCCT:

see


Diabetes Control and Complications Trial

DCSW:

acronym
for Diplomate in Clinical Social Work.

DDS:

acronym
for Doctor of Dentistry.

dehydration
(dee-hy-DRAY-shun):

the
loss of too much body fluid through frequent urinating,
sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.

dermopathy
(dur-MAH-puh-thee):

disease
of the skin.

desensitization
(dee-sens-ih-tiz-A-shun):

a
way to reduce or stop a response such as an allergic
reaction to something. For example, if someone has an
allergic reaction to something, the doctor gives the
person a very small amount of the substance at first
to increase one’s tolerance. Over a period of time,
larger doses are given until the person is taking the
full dose. This is one way to help the body get used
to the full dose and to prevent the allergic reaction.

dextrose
(DECKS-trohss), also called glucose:

simple


sugar


found in blood that
serves as the body’s main source of energy.

DHANP:

acronym
for Diplomate of the Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic
Physicians.

DHM
or DHm:

acronym
for Doctor of Homeopathic Medicine.

DHom:

acronym
for Homeopathic Diplomate (UK).

DHt:

acronym
for Diplomate in Homeotherapeutics.

DiaBeta:

see


glyburide

diabetes:

see


diabetes mellitus

Diabetes
Control and Complications Trial (DCCT):

a
study by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive
and Kidney Diseases, conducted from 1983 to 1993 in
people with


type 1 diabetes

The study showed that


intensive therapy


compared to


conventional therapy


significantly helped prevent or delay diabetes


complications

Intensive therapy included multiple daily


insulin
injections


or the use of an


insulin
pump


with multiple


blood glucose


readings each day. Complications followed in the study
included


diabetic retinopathy


,


neuropathy


, and


nephropathy

diabetes
educator:

a
health care professional who teaches people who have
diabetes how to manage their diabetes. Some diabetes
educators are


certified diabetes educators
(CDEs)


Diabetes educators are found in
hospitals, physician offices, managed care organizations,
home health care, and other settings.

diabetes
insipidus (in-SIP-ih-dus):

a
condition characterized by frequent and heavy urination,
excessive thirst, and an overall feeling of weakness.
This condition may be caused by a defect in the pituitary
gland or in the


kidney


In
diabetes insipidus,


blood glucose levels


are normal.

diabetes
mellitus (MELL-ih-tus):

a
condition characterized by


hyperglycemia


resulting from the body’s inability to use


blood
glucose


for energy. In


type
1 diabetes


, the


pancreas


no longer makes


insulin


and
therefore blood glucose cannot enter the cells to be
used for energy. In


type 2 diabetes


,
either the pancreas does not make enough insulin or
the body is unable to use insulin correctly.

Diabetes
Prevention Program (DPP):

a
study by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive
and Kidney Diseases conducted from 1998 to 2001 in people
at high risk for


type 2 diabetes

All study participants had


impaired glucose
tolerance


, also called

pre-diabetes

,
and were


overweight


The study
showed that people who lost 5 to 7 percent of their
body weight through a low-fat, low-calorie diet and
moderate exercise (usually walking for 30 minutes 5
days a week) reduced their risk of getting type 2 diabetes
by 58 percent. Participants who received treatment with
the oral diabetes drug metformin reduced their risk
of getting type 2 diabetes by 31 percent.

diabetic
diarrhea (dy-uh-REE-uh):

loose
stools, fecal incontinence, or both that result from
an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine and
diabetic


neuropathy


in the
intestines. This nerve damage can also result in constipation.

diabetic
eye disease:

see


diabetic retinopathy

diabetic
ketoacidosis (KEY-toe-ass-ih-DOH-sis) (DKA):

an
emergency condition in which extremely high


blood
glucose levels


, along with a severe lack
of


insulin


, result in the
breakdown of body


fat


for
energy and an accumulation of


ketones


in the blood and


urine


Signs
of DKA are nausea and vomiting, stomach pain, fruity
breath odor, and rapid breathing. Untreated DKA can
lead to


coma


and death.

diabetic
myelopathy (my-eh-LAH-puh-thee):

damage
to the spinal cord found in some people with diabetes.

diabetic
nephropathy:

see


nephropathy

diabetic
neuropathy:

see


neuropathy

diabetic
retinopathy (REH-tih-NOP-uh-thee):

diabetic
eye disease; damage to the small


blood vessels


in the


retina


Loss of vision
may result.

diabetogenic
(DY-uh-beh-toh-JEN-ic):

causing
diabetes. For example, some drugs cause


blood
glucose levels


to rise, resulting in diabetes.

diabetologist
(DY-uh-beh-TAH-luh-jist):

a
doctor who specializes in treating people who have diabetes.

Diabinese:

see


chlorpropamide

diagnosis
(DY-ug-NO-sis):

the
determination of a disease from its signs and symptoms.

dialysis
(dy-AL-ih-sis):

the
process of cleaning wastes from the blood artificially.
This job is normally done by the


kidneys

If the kidneys fail, the blood must be cleaned artificially
with special equipment. The two major forms of dialysis
are hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

• 
  hemodialysis
  (HE-mo-dy-AL-ih-sis)
  
  : the use of a machine
  to clean wastes from the blood after the kidneys have
  failed. The blood travels through tubes to a dialyzer
  (DY-uh-LY-zur), a machine that removes wastes and extra
  fluid. The cleaned blood then goes back into the body.

• 
  peritoneal
  (PEH-rih-tuh-NEE-ul) dialysis
  
  : cleaning the
  blood by using the lining of the abdomen as a filter.
  A cleansing solution called dialysate (dy-AL-ih-sate)
  is infused from a bag into the abdomen. Fluids and wastes
  flow through the lining of the belly and remain “trapped”
  in the dialysate. The dialysate is then drained from
  the belly, removing the extra fluids and wastes from
  the body.

dietitian
(DY-eh-TIH-shun):

a
health care professional who advises people about meal
planning, weight control, and diabetes management. A
registered dietitian (RD) has more training.

dilated
(DY-lay-ted) eye exam:

a
test done by an eye care specialist in which the pupil
(the black center) of the eye is temporarily enlarged
with eyedrops to allow the specialist to see the inside
of the eye more easily.

DiplAc
(NCCAOM):

acronym
for Board Certified Diplomate in Acupuncture of the
National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture
and Oriental Medicine.

DiplCH
(NCCAOM):

acronym
for Board Certified Diplomate in Chinese Herbology of
the National Commission for the Certification of Acupuncture
and Oriental Medicine.

DiplOBT
(NCCAOM):

acronym
for Board Certified Diplomate in Oriental Bodywork Therapy
of the National Commission for the Certification of
Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

DKA:

see


diabetic ketoacidosis

DMD:

acronym
for Doctor of Medical Dentistry.

DNBHE:

acronym
for Diplomate of the National Board of Homeopathic Examiners.

DO:

acronym
for Doctor of Osteopathy.

DOM:

acronym
for Doctor of Oriental Medicine.

D-phenylalanine
(dee-fen-nel-AL-ah-neen) derivative:

a
class of oral medicine for


type 2 diabetes


that lowers


blood glucose levels


by helping the


pancreas


make
more


insulin


right after meals.
(Generic name: nateglinide.)

DPM:

acronym
for Doctor of Podiatric Medicine

DPP:

see


Diabetes Prevention Program

DtP:

acronym
for Registered Dietitian (French-Canadian).

DTR:

acronym
for Dietetic Technicia, Registered.

Dupuytren’s
(doo-PWEE-trenz) contracture (kon-TRACK-chur):

a
condition associated with diabetes in which the fingers
and the palm of the hand thicken and shorte, causing
the fingers to curve inward.

DVM:

acronym
for Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.

Dymelor:

see


acetohexamide

xylitol
(ZY-lih-tall):

a carbohydrate-based sweetener found in
plants and used as a substitute for sugar; provides calories.
Found in some mints and chewing gum.

edema
(eh-DEE-muh):

swelling
caused by excess fluid in the body.

electromyography
(ee-LEK-troh-my-AH-gruh-fee) (EMG):

a
test used to detect nerve function. It measures the
electrical activity generated by muscles.

EMG:

see


electromyography

EMT:

acronym
for Emergency Medical Technician.

endocrine
(EN-doh-krin) gland:

a
group of specialized cells that release


hormones


into the blood. For example, the


islets


in the


pancreas


, which secrete


insulin


, are endocrine glands.

endocrinologist
(EN-doh-krih-NAH-luh-jist):

a
doctor who treats people who have


endocrine
gland


problems such as diabetes.

end-stage
renal disease (ESRD):

see


kidney failure

enzyme
(EN-zime):

protein


made by the body that brings about a chemical reaction,
for example, the enzymes produced by the gut to aid
digestion.

EPC:

acronym
for Certified Exercise Physiologist.

erectile
dysfunction:

see


impotence

euglycemia
(you-gly-SEEM-ee-uh):

a
normal level of


glucose


in
the blood.

exchange
lists:

one
of several approaches for diabetes meal planning. Foods
are categorized into three groups based on their nutritional
content. Lists provide the serving sizes for


carbohydrates


,
meat and meat alternatives, and


fats

These lists allow for substitution for different groups
to keep the nutritional content fixed.

FAAD:

acronym
for Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.

FAAFP:

acronym
for Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

FAAO:

acronym
for Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry.

FAAP:

acronym
for Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

FACE:

acronym
for Fellow of the American College of Endocrinology.

FACP:

acronym
for Fellow of the American College of Physicians.

FACS:

acronym
for Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

FADA:

acronym
for Fellow of the American Dietetic Association.

FAGD:

acronym
for Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry.

FAPhA:

acronym
for Fellow of the American Pharmaceutical Association.

FASHP:

acronym
for Fellow of the American Society of Health-System
Pharmacists.

fasting
blood glucose test:

a
check of a person’s


blood glucose


level after the person has not eaten for 8 to 12 hours
(usually overnight). This test is used to diagnose


pre-diabetes


and diabetes. It is also used to monitor people with
diabetes.

fat:

1.
One of the three main nutrients in food. Foods that
provide fat are butter, margarine, salad dressing, oil,
nuts, meat, poultry, fish, and some dairy products.
2. Excess


calories


are stored
as body fat, providing the body with a reserve supply
of energy and other functions.

FIACA:

acronym
for Fellow of the International Academy of Clinical
Acupuncture.

50/50
insulin:

premixed
insulin


that is 50 percent


intermediate-acting
(NPH) insulin


and 50 percent


short-acting
(regular) insulin

fluorescein
(fluh-RESS-ee-in) angiography (an-gee-AH-grah-fee):

a
test to examine


blood vessels


in the eye; done by injecting dye into an arm


vein


and then taking photos as the dye goes through the eye’s
blood vessels.

FNP:

acronym
for Family Nurse Practitioner.

FNP-C:

acronym
for Family Nurse Practitioner, Certified.

fructosamine
(frook-TOH-sah-meen) test:

measures the number of


blood
glucose


molecules (MAH-leh-kyools) linked
to


protein


molecules in the
blood. The test provides information on the average


blood glucose level


for the
past 3 weeks.

fructose (FROOK-tohss):

a


sugar


that occurs naturally in fruits and honey. Fructose
has 4


calories


per


gram

gangrene
(GANG-green):

the
death of body tissue, most often caused by a lack of
blood flow and infection. It can lead to amputation.

gastroparesis
(gas-tro-puh-REE-sis):

a
form of


neuropathy


that affects
the stomach. Digestion of food may be incomplete or
delayed, resulting in nausea, vomiting, or bloating,
making


blood glucose


control
difficult.

gestational
(jes-TAY-shun-ul) diabetes mellitus (MELL-ih-tus) (GDM):

a
type of


diabetes mellitus


that develops only during pregnancy and usually disappears
upon delivery, but increases the risk that the mother
will develop diabetes later. GDM is managed with meal
planning, activity, and, in some cases,


insulin

gingivitis
(JIN-jih-VY-tis):

a
condition of the gums characterized by inflammation
and bleeding.

gland:

a
group of cells that secrete substances. Endocrine glands
secrete


hormones


Exocrine
glands secrete salt,


enzymes


,
and water.

glargine
(GLAR-jeen) insulin:

very-long-acting
insulin


On average, glargine insulin
starts to lower


blood glucose levels


within 1 hour after


injection


and keeps working evenly for 24 hours after injection.

glaucoma
(glaw-KOH-muh):

an
increase in fluid pressure inside the eye that may lead
to loss of vision.

glimepiride
(gly-MEH-per-ide):

an
oral medicine used to treat


type 2 diabetes

It lowers


blood glucose


by
helping the


pancreas


make
more


insulin


and by helping
the body better use the insulin it makes. Belongs to
the class of medicines called sulfonylureas. (Brand
name: Amaryl.)

glipizide
(GLIH-pih-zide):

an
oral medicine used to treat


type 2 diabetes

It lowers


blood glucose


by
helping the


pancrea


s make
more


insulin


and by helping
the body better use the insulin it makes. Belongs to
the class of medicines called sulfonylureas. (Brand
names: Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL.)

glomerular
(glo-MEHR-yoo-lur) filtration rate:

measure
of the


kidney


‘s ability to
filter and remove waste products.

glomeruli
(glo-MEHR-yoo-lie):

plural
of


glomerulus

glomerulus
(glo-MEHR-yoo-lus):

a
tiny set of looping


blood vessels


in
the


kidney


where the blood
is filtered and waste products are removed.

glucagon
(GLOO-kah-gahn):

a


hormone


produced by the


alpha
cells


in the


pancreas

It raises


blood glucose


An
injectable form of glucagon, available by prescription,
may be used to treat severe


hypoglycemia

Glucophage,
Glucophage XR:

see


metformin

glucose:

one
of the simplest forms of


sugar

glucose
tablets:

chewable
tablets made of pure


glucose


used for treating


hypoglycemia

glucose
tolerance test:

see


oral glucose tolerance test

Glucotrol,
Glucotrol XL:

see


glipizide

Glucovance:

an
oral medicine used to treat


type 2 diabetes

It is a combination of


glyburide


and


metformin

glyburide
(GLY-buh-ride):

an
oral medicine used to treat


type 2 diabetes

It lowers


blood glucose


by
helping the


pancreas


make
more


insulin


and by helping
the body better use the insulin it makes. Belongs to
the class of medicines called sulfonylureas. (Brand
names: DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase; ingredient
in Glucovance.)

glycemic
(gly-SEE-mik) index:

a
ranking of


carbohydrate


-containing
foods, based on the food’s effect on


blood
glucose


compared with a standard reference
food.

glycogen
(GLY-koh-jen):

the
form of


glucose


found in the


liver


and muscles.

glycosuria
(gly-koh-SOOR-ee-ah):

the
presence of


glucose


in the


urine

glycosylated
hemoglobin:

see


A1C

Glynase
PresTab:

see


glyburide

Glyset:

see


miglitol

gram:

a
unit of weight in the metric system. An ounce equals
28 grams. In some


meal plans


for people with diabetes, the suggested amounts of food
are given in grams.

HDL
cholesterol (kuh-LESS-tuh-rawl), stands for high-density-lipoprotein
(LIP-oh-PRO-teen) cholesterol:

a


fat


found in the blood that
takes extra


cholesterol


from
the blood to the


liver


for
removal. Sometimes called “good” cholesterol.

hemodialysis:

see


dialysis

hemoglobin
A1C test:

see


A1C

heredity:

the
passing of a trait from parent to child.

HHNS:

see


hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketotic syndrome

high
blood glucose:

see


hyperglycemia

high
blood pressure:

see


hypertension

high-density
lipoprotein cholesterol:

see


HDL cholesterol

HLA:

see


human leukocyte antigens

HMD:

acronym
for Homeopathic Medical Doctor.

HNC:

acronym
for Holistic Nurse Certified.

home
glucose monitor:

see


blood glucose meter

honeymoon
phase:

temporary
remission of


hyperglycemia


that occurs in some people newly diagnosed with


type
1 diabetes


, when some


insulin


secretion resumes for a short time, usually a few months,
before stopping again.

hormone:

a
chemical produced in one part of the body and released
into the blood to trigger or regulate particular functions
of the body. For example,


insulin


is a hormone made in the


pancreas


that tells other cells when to use


glucose


for energy. Synthetic hormones, made for
use as medicines, can be the same or different from
those made in the body.

human
leukocyte antigens (HLA):

proteins


located on the surface of the cell that help the


immune
system


identify the cell either as one
belonging to the body or as one from outside the body.
Some patterns of these proteins may mean increased risk
of developing


type 1 diabetes

hyperglycemia
(HY-per-gly-SEE-mee-uh):

excessive
blood glucose. Fasting hyperglycemia is


blood
glucose


above a desirable level after
a person has fasted for at least 8 hours. Postprandial
hyperglycemia is blood glucose above a desirable level
1 to 2 hours after a person has eaten.

hyperinsulinemia
(HY-per-IN-suh-lih-NEE-mee-uh):

a
condition in which the level of


insulin


in the blood is higher than normal. Caused by overproduction
of insulin by the body. Related to


insulin
resistance

hyperlipidemia
(HY-per-li-pih-DEE-mee-uh):

higher
than normal


fat


and


cholesterol


levels in the blood.

hyperosmolar
(HY-per-oz-MOH-lur) hyperglycemic (HY-per-gly-SEE-mik)
nonketotic (non-kee-TAH-tik) syndrome (HHNS):

an
emergency condition in which one’s


blood
glucose level


is very high and


ketones


are not present in the


blood


or


urine


If HHNS is not treated,
it can lead to


coma


or death.

hypertension
(HY-per-TEN-shun):

a
condition present when blood flows through the


blood
vessels


with a force greater than normal.
Also called high


blood pressure

Hypertension can strain the heart, damage blood vessels,
and increase the risk of heart attack,


stroke


,


kidney problems


, and death.

hypoglycemia
(hy-po-gly-SEE-mee-uh):

a
condition that occurs when one’s


blood glucose


is lower than normal, usually less than 70


mg/dL

Signs include hunger, nervousness, shakiness, perspiratio,
dizziness or light-headedness, sleepiness, and confusion.
If left untreated, hypoglycemia may lead to unconsciousness.
Hypoglycemia is treated by consuming a


carbohydrate


-rich
food such as a


glucose tablet


or juice. It may also be treated with an injection of


glucagon


if the person is
unconscious or unable to swallow. Also called an


insulin
reaction

hypoglycemia
unawareness (un-uh-WARE-ness):

a
state in which a person does not feel or recognize the
symptoms of


hypoglycemia

People who have frequent episodes of hypoglycemia may
no longer experience the warning signs of it.

hypotension
(hy-poh-TEN-shun):

low


blood pressure


or a sudden
drop in blood pressure. Hypotension may occur when a
person rises quickly from a sitting or reclining position,
causing dizziness or fainting.