Today an education of some of the education we have had in the past 6 months. This is a small dose of the really important terms we have learned recently that we had heard before but didn't understand - defined from that of a diabetic family!
This will educate you so when you speak to me or someone else with diabetes you might better understand what we are saying! (I put these in alpha order - for a much LONGER list of diabetic terminology see this website: http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/common-terms/common-terms-s-z.html)
A1C - A test that measures a person's average blood glucose level over the past 2 to 3 months. A VERY important test for those with diabetes to understand their overall health. The test shows the amount of glucose that sticks to the red blood cell, which is proportional to the amount of glucose in the blood.
Basal rate - steady trickle of low levels of longer-acting insulin, such as that used in insulin pumps. (Still don't fully understand this term but since we are headed towards a pump we are learning it now!)
Beta cell - a cell that makes insulin. Beta cells are located in the islets of the pancreas. Yeah this is really a technical but I hear it a lot for some reason!
Blood glucose (BG), BG level, BG meter, BG Monitoring - BG is the main sugar found in the blood and the body's main source of energy. Also called blood sugar. A BG meter is the small portable machine that Allison uses to check her blood glucose levels. After pricking her finger with her pricker, a drop of blood is put on a test strip in the machine. The meter displays the blood glucose level as a number on the meter's digital display. Checking blood glucose level on a regular basis (for Allison about 12-15 times a day) in order to manage diabetes.
Bolus (BOH -lus) - An extra amount of insulin taken to cover an expected rise in blood glucose, often related to a meal or snack (we call these the "extra shots.")
Carbohydrate and Carbohydrate counting - One of the three main nutrients in food. Foods that provide carbohydrates are starches, vegetables, fruits, dairy products and sugars. We have become mathematicians by counting the number of grams of carbohydrate in foods that Allison eats (and so has she!)
Certified diabetes educator (CDE ) - A health care professional with expertise in diabetes education - OR our families lifeline to remaining sane through all the "highs" and "lows"!!
Complications - We think about these but not that much - we will kick diabetes in the butt beforehand but just in case - 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 levels close to normal can help prevent or delay these problems.
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) - What took Allison to the ER! 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. Untreated DKA can lead to coma and death. SCARY thing!!!
Endocrinologist - Our doctor who treats us - and others with diabetes (we don't see them as much as our CDE !)
Glucagon - Something we NEVER want to have to use - a hormone produced by the alpha cells in the pancreas that raises blood glucose quickly - we have it as an emergency injectable to be used to treat severe hypoglycemia.
Glucose tablets - Chewable tablets made of pure glucose used for treating hypoglycemia - Allison prefers starburst and skittles!
Honeymoon phase - During this time Allison's pancreas may still secrete some insulin. Over time, this secretion stops and as this happens, she will require more insulin from injections. The honeymoon period is still in affect in Allison - we don't like to call it honeymoon that makes it sound good - it is more of a stress factor for us!
Hyperglycemia - Excessive blood glucose. Otherwise called a "HIGH".
Hypoglycemia - Blood glucose is lower than normal. Otherwise called a "LOW ". Signs include hunger, nervousness, shakiness, perspiration, 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. Immediate need to fix situation!
Insulin - A hormone that helps the body use glucose for energy. The beta cells of the pancreas make insulin. When the body cannot make enough insulin, it is taken by injection. A necessary for Allison's life now.
Ketone - A chemical produced when there is a shortage of insulin in the blood and the body breaks down body fat for energy. High levels of ketones can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis and coma. Allison hates testing for these - more of a fear than any type of pain!!
Pancreas - An organ that makes insulin and enzymes for digestion. The pancreas is located behind the lower part of the stomach and is about the size of a hand. One I don't think I have ever thought about before - but now it is our most important organ!
Team Management - A diabetes treatment approach in which medical care is provided by a team of health care professionals including a doctor, a dietitian, a nurse, a diabetes educator, and others. The team acts as advisers to the person with diabetes. Our team includes our friends, family and the American Diabetes Association - because mental and educational support is just as important to your management of this disease!!
Hope you have learned a little and can feel like you can understand when we say we are having a high or I am nervous and needing the juice bag because we are having a low.
Until there is a cure,
Jennifer
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