National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse 

The Diabetes The Diabetes 


Dictionary Dictionary 

U.S. Department 

of Health and 

Human Services 

NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse

The Diabetes 

Dictionary 

Some terms listed have many meanings; only those meanings that relate to 

diabetes are included. Words that appear in bold italic are listed elsewhere 

in the dictionary. 

Information in this dictionary is not a substitute for a visit to your doctor. 

Talk with a health professional if you have a problem with your diabetes. 

The U.S. Government does not endorse or favor any specific commercial 

product or company. Trade, proprietary, or company names appearing in 

this document are used only because they are considered necessary in the 

context of the information provided. If a product is not mentioned, the 

omission does not mean or imply that the product is unsatisfactory. 

U.S. Department 


of Health and 


Human Services
 

NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse
Pronunciation Guide 

This pronunciation guide uses letters and letter combinations, rather than 

phonetic symbols, to stand for the various sounds in the English language. 

Vowels 

a cat, bat 

ah father 

air pear, hair 

ar park 

ay say, came, weigh 

aw saw, bought 

e bet, set

 eh (used at the end of a syllable or when 

standing alone) 

examples: 

meadow (MEH-doh) 

enemy (EH-nuh-mee) 

but

diet (DY-et) 

ee feet, neat 

i sit, igloo

 ih (used at the end of a syllable or when 

standing alone) 

examples: 

chicken (CHIH-ken) 

miracle (MIHR-ih-kuhl) 

but

picnic (PIK-nik) 

ihr near, here 

y fire, idol

 eye (used at the beginning of a syllable or 

when standing alone) 

examples: 

iron (EYE-urn) 

chloride (KLOR-eyed) 

but

silent (SY-luhnt) 

o hot, cot 

oh coat, home 

oo food, rude 

or tore, soar, for 

oi soil, boy 

ou now, couch 

u put, foot 

uh about, sum, china 

ur hurt, alert 

yoo use 

yoor cure 

Consonants 

b bat, job 

ch chop, itch 

d dig, bed 

f fur, tough, calf 

g grape, big 

h happy 

j joke, nudge 

k kite, car, tack 

l lip, sell 

m move, jam 

n not, knee 

ng ring 

p play, hop 

r rain, fur 

s set, tips 

ss bus, guess, fence 

sh shy, fish 

t toy, boat 

th breath 

v vine, have 

w walk, where 

y yes 

z zip, jazz, has 

zh measure
 

 

A
 acanthosis nigricans (ak-anTHOH-siss) (NIG-rih-kanz): a 

skin condition characterized 

by darkened skin patches; 

common in people whose body 

is not responding correctly to 

the insulin they make in their 

pancreas, a condition called 

insulin resistance. This skin 

condition is also seen in people 

who have pre-diabetes or type 2 

diabetes. 

acarbose (A-kahr-bohss): an oral 

medicine used to treat type 2 

diabetes. Acarbose slows down 

the digestion of foods high 

in carbohydrate, such as rice, 

bread, milk, and fruit. The 

result is a slower and lower 

rise in blood glucose throughout 

the day, especially right after 

meals. Acarbose belongs to the 

class of medicines called alphaglucosidase inhibitors. (Brand 

name: Precose.) 

ACE inhibitor (ayss) (in-HIB-ih-tur): 

an oral medicine that lowers 

blood pressure. ACE stands 

for angiotensin-converting 

enzyme. For people with diabetes, 

especially those who have protein 

(albumin) in the urine, it also 

helps slow down kidney damage. 

acesulfame potassium (AY-seeSUHL-faym) (poh-TASS-eeuhm): a dietary sweetener 

with no calories and no 

nutritional value. Also known 

as acesulfame-K. (Brand name: 

Sunett.) 

Actoplus Met (AK-toh-pluhss) 

(met): the brand name of an 

oral medicine used to treat 

type 2 diabetes; a combination of 

pioglitazone and metformin. 

Actos (AK-tohss): see pioglitazone. 

acute (uh-KYOOT): describes 

something that happens 

suddenly and for a short time. 

Opposite of chronic, or longlasting. 

acute renal failure (uh-KYOOT) 

(REE-nuhl) (FAYL-yoor): 

sudden and temporary loss of 

kidney function. See chronic 

kidney disease. 

adhesive capsulitis (ad-HEE-siv) 

(KAP-soo-LY-tiss): a condition 

of the shoulder associated with 

diabetes that results in pain and 

loss of the ability to move the 

shoulder in all directions. 

adult-onset diabetes (uh-DUHLTAWN-set) (DY-uh-BEE-teez): 

former term for type 2 diabetes. 

1
 
 

 

A
 AGEs (AY-JEE-EEZ): stands 

for advanced glycosylation end 

products. AGEs are produced 

in the body when glucose links 

with protein. They play a role in 

damaging blood vessels, which can 

lead to diabetes complications. 

albumin (al-BYOO-min): the main 

protein in blood. Over several 

years, people who are developing 

diabetic kidney disease leak 

small amounts of albumin 

into the urine, a condition 

called microalbuminuria. As 

kidney disease progresses, 

more albumin leaks into 

the urine, a condition called 

macroalbuminuria or proteinuria. 

As the amount of albumin in 

the urine increases, the kidneys’ 

ability to filter the blood 

decreases. 

albuminuria (al-BYOO-min-YOOree-uh): a condition in which 

the urine has more than normal 

amounts of a protein called 

albumin. Albuminuria may be 

a sign of nephropathy, or kidney 

disease. See albumin. 

alpha cell (AL-fuh) (sel): a type 

of cell in the pancreas. Alpha 

cells make and release a hormone 

called glucagon. The body 

sends a signal to the alpha cells 

to make glucagon when blood 

glucose falls too low. Then 

glucagon reaches the liver, where 

it tells the liver to release glucose 

into the blood for energy. 

alpha-glucosidase inhibitor 

(AL-fuh-gloo-KOH-sih-dayss) 

(in-HIB-ih-tur): a class of oral 

medicine for type 2 diabetes that 

slows down the digestion of 

foods high in carbohydrate, such 

as rice, bread, milk, and fruit. 

The result is a slower and lower 

rise in blood glucose after meals. 

(Generic names/Brand names: 

acarbose/Precose; miglitol/Glyset.) 

alternative site testing: using 

areas of the body other than 

the fingertips for blood glucose 

monitoring. 

Amaryl (AM-uh-ril): see 

glimepiride. 

amputate (AM-pyoo-tayt): to cut 

a part, such as a foot, from the 

body. 

2
 
A
 amylin (AM-ih-lin): a hormone 

formed by beta cells in the 

pancreas. Amylin regulates the 

timing of glucose release into 

the bloodstream after eating 

by slowing the emptying of the 

stomach. 

amylin mimetic (AM-ih-lin) (mihMET-ik): a type of injectable 

medicine for diabetes that mimics 

the effect of the hormone 

amylin. This medicine helps 

food move more slowly through 

the stomach and helps keep 

the liver from releasing stored 

glucose. (Generic name/Brand 

name: pramlintide acetate/ 

Symlin.) 

amyotrophy (uh-my-OT-roh-fee): 

a type of neuropathy resulting in 

pain, weakness, or wasting in 

the muscles. 

anemia (uh-NEE-mee-uh): a 

condition in which the number 

of red blood cells is less than 

normal, resulting in less oxygen 

carried to the body’s cells. 

Anemia can cause extreme 

fatigue. 

angiopathy (AN-jee-OP-uh-thee): 

any disease of the blood vessels 

(arteries, capillaries, veins) or 

lymphatic vessels. 

antibodies (AN-tee-BOD-eez): 

proteins made by the body to 

protect itself from foreign 

substances such as bacteria 

or viruses. People get type 1 

diabetes when their bodies make 

antibodies that destroy the 

body’s own insulin-making beta 

cells. 

A1C (AY-WUHN-SEE): a test that 

measures a person’s average 

blood glucose level over the past 

2 to 3 months. Hemoglobin is 

the part of a red blood cell that 

carries oxygen to the cells and 

sometimes joins with the glucose 

in the bloodstream. Also called 

hemoglobin A1C or glycosylated 

hemoglobin, 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. Results are 

given as a percentage or as an 

average glucose value, called an 

estimated average glucose. 

Apidra (uh-PEE-druh): see insulin 

glulisine. 

ARB (arb): an oral medicine that 

lowers blood pressure. ARB 

stands for angiotensin receptor 

blocker. For people with 

diabetes, especially those who 

have protein (albumin) in the 

urine, it also helps slow down 

kidney damage. 

3
 
 

 	 	 	 	

	 	 	 	

	 	 	

A
 arteriosclerosis (ar-TIHRee-oh-sklur-OH-siss): see 

atherosclerosis. 

artery (AR-tur-ee): a large blood 

vessel that carries blood with 

oxygen from the heart to all 

parts of the body. 

aspartame (ASS-par-taym): a 

dietary sweetener with almost no 

calories and no nutritional value. 

atherosclerosis (ATH-ur-oh-sklurOH-siss): clogging, narrowing, 

and hardening of the body’s 

large blood vessels, also called 

arteries. Atherosclerosis can lead 

to coronary heart disease, heart 

attacks, peripheral arterial disease, 

strokes, and transient ischemic 

attacks. It can also damage the 

arteries that go to the kidneys. 

A healthy blood vessel 

A narrowed blood vessel 

athlete’s foot (ATH-leets) (fut): 

a fungal infection of the skin 

on the foot, also called tinea 

pedis. The fungus is common in 

people with diabetes, the elderly, 

and people with an impaired 

immune system. The skin may 

peel, crack, bleed, or cause pain. 

Some people have no symptoms 

and do not know they have an 

infection. The affected skin is 

also more vulnerable to bacteria 

that cause cellulitis. 

Common Types of Athlete’s Foot 

•	moccasin, which affects the

soles of the feet 

•	interdigital, which affects the

skin between the toes 

•	inflammatory or blistering,

which affects the soles and 

sides of the feet 

autoimmune disease (AW-tohih-MYOON) (dih-ZEEZ): a 

disorder of the body’s immune 

system in which the immune 

system mistakenly attacks and 

destroys body tissue it believes to 

be foreign. 

4
 
 

A–B
 autonomic neuropathy (AW-tohNOM-ik) (noo-ROP-uh-thee): a 

type of neuropathy affecting the 

lungs, heart, stomach, intestines, 

bladder, or genitals. 

Avandamet (uh-VAN-duh-met): the 

brand name of an oral medicine 

used to treat type 2 diabetes; a 

combination of rosiglitazone and 

metformin. 

Avandaryl (uh-VAN-duh-ril): the 

brand name of an oral medicine 

used to treat type 2 diabetes; a 

combination of rosiglitazone and 

glimepiride. 

Avandia (uh-VAN-dee-uh): see 

rosiglitazone. 

background retinopathy (BAKground) (RET-ih-NOP-uh-thee): 

a type of damage to the retina 

of the eye marked by bleeding, 

fluid accumulation, and 

abnormal dilation of the blood 

vessels. Background retinopathy 

is an early stage of diabetic 

retinopathy. Also called simple 

or nonproliferative retinopathy. 

basal rate (BAY-suhl) (rayt): a 

continuous supply of low levels 

of longer-acting insulin, as used 

in insulin pumps. 

beta cell (BAY-tuh) (sel): a cell 

that makes insulin. Beta cells 

are located in the islets of the 

pancreas. 

biguanide (by-GWAH-nyd): 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. This type of medicine 

also helps treat insulin resistance, 

a condition in which the body 

doesn’t use insulin the way it 

should. (Generic names/Brand 

names: metformin/Glucophage, 

Glucophage XR, Riomet.) 

5
 
 

B
 blood glucose (bluhd) (GLOOkohss): the main sugar found in 

the blood and the body’s main 

source of energy. Also called 

blood sugar. 

blood glucose level (bluhd) 

(GLOO-kohss) (LEV-uhl): the 

amount of glucose in a given 

amount of blood. In the United 

States, blood glucose levels are 

noted in milligrams per deciliter, 

or mg/dL. 

blood glucose meter (bluhd) 

(GLOO-kohss) (MEE-tur): 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 then displays the blood 

glucose reading. 

Blood glucose meter 

blood glucose monitoring (bluhd) 

(GLOO-kohss) (MON-ih-TURing): checking blood glucose levels 

by using a blood glucose meter 

or blood glucose test strips that 

change color when touched by a 

blood sample in order to manage 

diabetes. 

blood pressure: the force of blood 

exerted on the inside walls of 

blood vessels. Blood pressure is 

expressed as two numbers. For 

example, a blood pressure result 

of 120/80 is said as “120 over 

80.” The first number is the 

systolic pressure, or the pressure 

when the heart pushes blood into 

the arteries. The second number 

is the diastolic pressure, or the 

pressure when the heart rests. 

blood sugar: see blood glucose. 

blood sugar level: see blood glucose 

level. 

blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (bluhd) 

(yoo-REE-uh) (NY-troh-jen): a 

waste product in the blood that 

comes from the breakdown of 

protein. The kidneys filter blood 

to remove urea. As kidney 

function decreases, the BUN 

level increases. 

6
 
B
 blood vessels (bluhd) (VESS-uhlz): 

tubes that carry blood to and 

from all parts of the body. The 

three main types of blood vessels 

are arteries, capillaries, and veins. 

BMI: see body mass index. 

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 below. 

18 and 

below is 

underweight. 

19 to 24 is 

normal. 

25 to 29 is 

overweight. 

30 and 

above is 

obese. 

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. 

body tissue: a group of cells in the 

body that performs a specific 

function. 

bolus (BOH-luhss): an extra 

amount of insulin taken to cover 

an expected rise in blood glucose, 

often related to a meal or snack. 

borderline diabetes (BOR-dur-lyn) 

(DY-uh-BEE-teez): a former 

term for type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. 

brittle diabetes (BRIH-tuhl) 

(DY-uh-BEE-teez): a term used 

when a person’s blood glucose 

level moves often from low to 

high and from high to low. 

BUN (BEE-YOO-EN): see blood 

urea nitrogen. 

bunion (BUHN-yuhn): 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. 

Byetta (by-YAY-tuh): see exenatide. 

7
 
C
 callus (KAL-uhss): 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, fat, protein, 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. 

Candida (KAN-did-uh): a fungus 

that is normally found in the 

body but commonly becomes 

overgrown in people with 

diabetes. Overgrowth is due to 

increased sugar in the body and 

a weakened immune system. Use 

of antibiotics or birth control 

pills also increases the risk of 

candida overgrowth. Candida

overgrowth can lead to infection, 

causing itching, skin lesions, or 

rash. Some common areas of 

infection are in or around the 

mouth, armpits, groin, vagina, 

and nails. 

CAPD (SEE-AY-PEE-DEE): see 

continuous ambulatory peritoneal 

dialysis under dialysis. 

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-HYdrayt): one of the three main 

nutrients in food. Foods that 

provide carbohydrate are 

starches, vegetables, fruits, dairy 

products, and sugars. 

Sources of carbohydrate 

8
 
 

C
 carbohydrate counting (KAR-bohHY-drayt) (KOUN-ting): a 

method of meal planning for 

people with diabetes based on 

counting the number of grams of 

carbohydrate in food. 

cardiologist (KAR-dee-OL-oh-jist): 

a doctor who treats people who 

have heart problems. 

cardiovascular disease (KAR-deeoh-VASS-kyoo-lur) (dih-ZEEZ): 

disease of the heart and blood 

vessels (arteries, capillaries, and 

veins). 

carpal tunnel syndrome (KARpuhl) (TUHN-uhl) (SINdrohm): a common form of 

neuropathy occurring with 

diabetes. Symptoms of carpal 

tunnel syndrome include 

nighttime hand tingling and pain 

and numbness and weakness 

in the hand and wrist that 

sometimes radiates up the arm. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome often 

affects both wrists and occurs 

more often in women than men. 

cataract (KAT-uh-rakt): clouding 

of the lens of the eye. 

CCPD: see continuous cycling 

peritoneal dialysis under dialysis. 

CDE: see certified diabetes educator. 

celiac disease (SEE-lee-ak) (dihZEEZ): the inability to digest 

and absorb proteins called gluten 

found in wheat, rye, and barley. 

Celiac disease causes damage to 

the lining of the small intestine 

and prevents absorption of 

nutrients. Also called celiac 

sprue, gluten intolerance, and 

nontropical sprue. 

cellulitis (SEL-yoo-LY-tiss): a skin 

infection caused by bacteria 

that gets into the skin through a 

wound. Cellulitis may develop 

from skin problems such as 

ulcers, eczema, psoriasis, or a 

fungal infection like athlete’s foot. 

People with diabetes, peripheral 

arterial disease, or a weakened 

immune system may develop 

cellulitis. If not treated with 

antibiotics, the infection can 

spread to the blood or lymph 

nodes and cause death. 

cerebral vascular disease (sehREE-bruhl) (VASS-kyoo-lur) 

(dih-ZEEZ): damage to blood 

vessels in the brain. Vessels 

can burst and bleed or become 

clogged with fatty deposits. A 

stroke results when blood flow 

is interrupted and brain cells 

die or are damaged. 

9
 
 

C
 certified diabetes educator (CDE) 

(SER-tih-fyd) (DY-uh-BEEteez) (EH-juh-KAY-tur): a 

health care professional with 

expertise in diabetes education 

who has met eligibility 

requirements and successfully 

completed a certification exam. 

See diabetes educator. 

CGMS: see continuous glucose 

monitoring system. 

Charcot’s foot (SHAHR-kohz) 

(fut): a condition resulting from 

nerve damage in which the joints 

and soft tissue in the foot are 

destroyed. 

cheiroarthropathy (KY-roh-arTHROP-uh-thee): see limited 

joint mobility. 

cheiropathy (ky-ROP-uh-thee): 

see limited joint mobility. 

chlorpropamide (klor-PROHpuh-myd): an oral medicine 

used to treat type 2 diabetes. 

Chlorpropamide lowers blood 

glucose levels by helping the 

pancreas make more insulin 

and by helping the body better 

use the insulin it makes. 

Chlorpropamide belongs to 

the class of medicines called 

sulfonylureas. (Brand name: 

Diabinese.) 

cholesterol (koh-LESS-tur-ol): a 

type of fat produced by the 

liver and found in the blood. 

Cholesterol is also found in some 

foods. The body uses cholesterol 

to make hormones and build cell 

walls. 

chronic (KRON-ik): describes 

something that is long-lasting. 

Opposite of acute. 

chronic kidney disease (CKD) 

(KRON-ik) (KID-nee) (dihZEEZ): any condition that 

causes reduced kidney function 

over a period of time. CKD 

is present when a patient’s 

glomerular filtration rate remains 

below 60 milliliters per minute 

for more than 3 months. CKD 

may develop over many years 

and lead to end-stage renal 

disease. 

circulation (SUR-kyoo-LAYshuhn): the flow of blood 

through the body’s blood vessels 

and heart. 

CKD: see chronic kidney disease. 

claudication (CLAW-dih-KAYshuhn): see intermittent 

claudication. 

10
 
 

C
 coma (KOH-muh): a sleeplike 

state in which a person is not 

conscious. A coma may be 

caused by hyperglycemia (high 

blood glucose) or hypoglycemia 

(low blood glucose) in people with 

diabetes. 

combination diabetes pill (KOMbih-NAY-shuhn) (DY-uh-BEEteez) (pil): a pill that includes 

two different medicines. 

combination therapy: the use of 

different medicines together to 

manage blood glucose levels. 

complications (KOM-plih-KAYshuhnz): 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 LDL cholesterol 

levels close to normal can help 

prevent or delay these problems. 

congenital defects (kon-JEN-ihtuhl) (DEE-fekts): problems 

or conditions that are present 

at birth. 

congestive heart failure (kon-JESStiv) (hart) (FAYL-yoor): the 

type of heart failure in which loss 

of the heart’s pumping power 

causes fluid to build up in the 

body. 

constipation (KON-stih-PAYshuhn): a condition in which 

the stool becomes hard and dry. 

A person who is constipated 

usually has fewer than three 

bowel movements in a week. 

Bowel movements may be 

painful. 

continuous ambulatory peritoneal 

dialysis (kon-TIN-yoo-uhss) 

(AM-byoo-luh-TOR-ee) (PAIRih-toh-NEE-uhl) (dy-AL-ihsiss): see continuous ambulatory 

peritoneal dialysis under dialysis. 

continuous cycling peritoneal 

dialysis (kon-TIN-yoo-uhss) 

(SY-kling) (PAIR-ih-tohNEE-uhl) (dy-AL-ih-siss): see 

continuous cycling peritoneal 

dialysis under dialysis. 

continuous glucose monitoring 

system (CGMS) (kon-TIN-yoouhss) (GLOO-kohss) (MON-ihTUR-ing) (SISS-tuhm): a small 

sensor inserted below the skin 

that measures blood glucose levels 

approximately 12 times an hour. 

continuous subcutaneous insulin 

injection (kon-TIN-yoo-uhss) 

(SUHB-kyoo-TAY-nee-uhss) 

(IN-suh-lin) (in-JEK-shuhn): 

see insulin pump. 

11
 
 

C
 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 (KORuh-nair-ee) (AR-tur-ee) (dihZEEZ): see coronary heart 

disease. 

coronary heart disease (KOR-uhnair-ee) (hart) (dih-ZEEZ): 

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. 

C-peptide (SEE-PEP-tyd): 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. 

C-reactive protein (SEE-ree-AKtiv) (PROH-teen): a substance 

produced in the liver in response 

to injury or inflammation. 

Elevated levels of C-reactive 

protein are associated with a 

higher risk of heart attack and 

stroke. 

creatinine (kree-AT-ih-neen): a 

waste product from meat 

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. 

creatinine clearance (kree-AT-ihneen) (KLIHR-ants): a test 

that measures how efficiently 

the kidneys remove creatinine 

and other wastes from the 

blood. Low creatinine clearance 

indicates impaired kidney 

function. 

CSII (continuous subcutaneous 

insulin injection) (SEE-ESSEYE-EYE): see insulin pump. 

12
 
 

 

 

 

 

D
 dawn phenomenon (dawn) (fuhNOM-uh-non): the earlymorning (4 a.m. to 8 a.m.) rise in 

blood glucose. 

DCCT: see Diabetes Control and 

Complications Trial. 

debridement (day-breed-MAW): 

removal of dead or infected tissue 

from a wound. Debridement 

can be done with enzymes; 

mechanically, such as in a 

whirlpool; or through surgery. 

dehydration (dee-hy-DRAYshuhn): the loss of too much 

body fluid through frequent 

urinating, sweating, diarrhea, or 

vomiting. 

dermopathy (dur-MOP-uh-thee): 

disease of the skin. 

dextrose (DEKS-trohss): simple 

sugar found in blood that serves 

as the body’s main source of 

energy. Also called glucose. 

DiaBeta (dy-uh-BAY-tuh): see 

glyburide. 

diabetes (DY-uh-BEE-teez): a 

condition characterized by 

hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) 

resulting from the body’s 

inability to use blood glucose 

for energy. In type 1 diabetes, 

the pancreas no longer makes 

insulin; 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. 

Also called diabetes mellitus. 

Diabetes Control and 

Complications Trial (DCCT) 

(DY-uh-BEE-teez) (konTROHL) (and) (KOM-plihKAY-shuhnz) (TRY-uhl): 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 with conventional 

therapy significantly helped 

prevent or delay diabetic 

retinopathy, kidney disease, and 

nerve disease. Intensive therapy 

included multiple daily injections 

of insulin or the use of an insulin 

pump with multiple blood glucose 

readings each day. 

13
 
 

D
 diabetes educator (DY-uh-BEEteez) (EH-juh-KAY-tur): a 

health care professional who 

teaches people who have 

diabetes how to manage their 

condition. 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 (DY-uh-BEEteez) (in-SIH-puh-duhss): 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 

the kidney. In diabetes insipidus, 

blood glucose levels are normal. 

diabetes mellitus (DY-uh-BEEteez) (MEH-luh-tuhss): see 

diabetes. 

Diabetes Prevention Program 

(DPP) (DY-uh-BEE-teez) (preeVEN-shuhn) (PROH-gram): 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, lowcalorie diet and moderate 

physical activity—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. 

diabetes self-management (DY-uhBEE-teez) (self-MAN-uhjment): see self-management. 

14
 
 

 

D
 diabetic diarrhea (DY-uh-BET-ik) 

(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 (DY-uhBET-ik) (eye) (dih-ZEEZ): see 

diabetic retinopathy. 

diabetic gastropathy (DY-uhBET-ik) (gass-TROP-uh-thee): 

see gastropathy. 

diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) 

(DY-uh-BET-ik) (KEE-toh-ASSih-DOH-siss): 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 (DY-uhBET-ik) (MY-uh-LOP-uh-thee): 

damage to the spinal cord found 

in some people with diabetes. 

diabetic nephropathy (DY-uhBET-ik) (neh-FROP-uh-thee): 

see nephropathy. 

diabetic neuropathy (DY-uhBET-ik) (noo-ROP-uh-thee): 

see neuropathy. 

diabetic retinopathy (DY-uhBET-ik) (RET-ih-NOP-uh-thee): 

damage to the small blood vessels 

in the retina. Loss of vision may 

result. Also called diabetic eye 

disease. 

diabetogenic (DY-uh-BET-ohJEN-ik): causing diabetes. For 

example, some drugs cause blood 

glucose levels to rise, resulting in 

diabetes. 

diabetologist (DY-uh-beh-TOL-uhjist): a doctor who specializes 

in treating people who have 

diabetes. 

Diabinese (dy-AB-ih-neez): see 

chlorpropamide. 

diagnosis (DY-ag-NOH-siss): the 

determination of a disease from 

its signs and symptoms. 

15
 
 

	 	

 

 

 

 

 

D
 dialysis (dy-AL-ih-siss): 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. 

n hemodialysis (HEE-mohdy-AL-ih-siss): the use of a 

machine to clean wastes from 

the blood after the kidneys 

have failed. The blood travels 

through tubes to a dialyzer, a 

machine that removes wastes 

and extra fluid. The cleaned 

blood then flows through 

another set of tubes back into 

the body. 

Hemodialysis 

n	 peritoneal dialysis (PAIR-ihtoh-NEE-uhl) (dy-AL-ih-siss): 

cleaning of the blood by using 

the lining of the abdominal 

cavity, or belly, as a filter. A 

cleansing liquid, called dialysis 

solution, is drained from a 

bag into the abdomen. Fluid 

and wastes flow through 

the lining of the abdominal 

cavity and remain “trapped” 

in the dialysis solution. The 

solution is then drained from 

the abdomen, removing the 

extra fluid and wastes from 

the body. The two main 

types of peritoneal dialysis 

are continuous ambulatory 

peritoneal dialysis and 

continuous cycling peritoneal 

dialysis. 

• continuous ambulatory 

peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) 

(kon-TIN-yoo-uhss) (AMbyoo-luh-TOR-ee) 

(PAIR-ih-toh-NEE-uhl) 

(dy-AL-ih-siss): a form 

of peritoneal dialysis that 

needs no machine. With 

CAPD, the blood is always 

being cleaned. The dialysis 

solution passes from a 

plastic bag through 

a catheter and into the 

abdomen. The dialysis 

solution stays in the 

abdomen with the catheter 

sealed. After several hours, 16 
 

 

 

 

 

D
 the person using CAPD 

drains the solution back into 

a disposable bag. Then the 

person refills the abdomen 

with fresh solution through 

the same catheter to begin 

the cleaning process again. 

• continuous cycling 

peritoneal dialysis (CCPD) 

(kon-TIN-yoo-uhss) (SYkling) (PAIR-ih-toh-NEEuhl) (dy-AL-ih-siss): a form 

of peritoneal dialysis that 

uses a machine. This 

machine automatically fills 

and drains the dialysis 

solution from the abdomen. 

A typical CCPD schedule 

involves three to five 

exchanges during the 

night while the person 

sleeps. During the day, 

the person using CCPD 

performs one exchange, 

draining the dialysis 

solution after an entire day. 

dialysis solution (dy-AL-ih-siss) 

(suh-LOO-shuhn): a cleansing 

liquid used in the two major 

forms of dialysis—hemodialysis 

and peritoneal dialysis. Dialysis 

solution contains dextrose, a 

sugar, and other chemicals 

similar to those in the body. 

Dextrose draws wastes and extra 

fluid from the body into the 

dialysis solution. 

diastolic pressure (DY-uhSTOL-ik) (PRESH-ur): 

the blood pressure when the 

heart rests. 

dietitian (DY-uh-TISH-uhn): a 

health care professional who 

advises people about meal 

planning, weight control, 

and diabetes management. A 

registered dietitian (RD) has 

met certain requirements. 

dilated eye exam (DY-lay-ted) (eye) 

(ek-ZAM): 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. 

Dilated eye 

Undilated eye 

17
 
 

D
 dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor 

(dy-PEP-tih-dil) (PEP-tih-dayssFOR) (in-HIB-ih-tur): see 

DPP-4 inhibitor. 

DKA: see diabetic ketoacidosis. 

D-phenylalanine derivative (DEEFEN-il-AL-uh-neen) (duh-RIVuh-tiv): a type of oral medicine 

for type 2 diabetes that lowers 

blood glucose levels by helping the 

pancreas make more insulin right 

after meals. (Generic name/ 

Brand name: nateglinide/Starlix.) 

DPP: see Diabetes Prevention 

Program. 

DPP-4 inhibitor (DEE-PEE-PEEFOR) (in-HIB-ih-tur): a class of 

oral medicine used to treat type 2 

diabetes that lowers blood glucose 

by helping the body make more 

insulin when it’s needed. This 

type of medicine also helps keep 

the liver from putting stored 

blood glucose into the blood. 

(Generic name/Brand name: 

sitagliptin phosphate/Januvia.) 

Duetact (DOO-uh-tak): the brand 

name of an oral medicine 

used to treat type 2 diabetes; a 

combination of pioglitazone 

and glimepiride. 

Dupuytren’s contracture (doopwee-TRENZ) (kon-TRAKchur): a condition associated 

with diabetes in which the fingers 

and the palm of the hand thicken 

and shorten, causing the fingers 

to curve inward. 

duration: in referring to insulin, 

the length of time during 

which insulin keeps lowering 

blood glucose levels. Duration 

may also refer to the length of 

time a person has had diabetes, 

which determines a person’s 

risk of developing diabetes 

complications. 

18
 
 

E
 eAG: see estimated average glucose. 

edema (eh-DEE-muh): swelling 

caused by too much fluid in the 

body. 

electromyography (EMG) (ee-LEKtroh-my-OG-ruh-fee): a test 

used to detect nerve function. 

Electromyography measures the 

electrical activity generated by 

muscles. 

EMG: see electromyography. 

endocrine gland (EN-doh-krin) 

(gland): a group of specialized 

cells that releases hormones 

into the blood. For example, 

the islets in the pancreas, which 

secrete insulin, are endocrine 

glands. 

endocrinologist (EN-doh-krihNOL-uh-jist): a doctor who 

treats people who have endocrine 

gland problems such as diabetes. 

end-stage renal disease (ESRD) 

(END-STAYJ) (REE-nuhl) (dihZEEZ): total and permanent 

kidney failure. When the 

kidneys fail, the body retains 

fluid. Harmful wastes build 

up. A person with ESRD needs 

treatment to replace the work of 

the failed kidneys. 

enzyme (EN-zym): protein made 

by the body that brings about a 

chemical reaction—for example, 

the enzymes produced by the gut 

to aid digestion. 

erectile dysfunction (ee-REK-tyl) 

(diss-FUHNK-shuhn): the 

inability to get or maintain an 

erection for satisfactory sexual 

intercourse. Also called impotence. 

ESRD: see end-stage renal disease. 

estimated average glucose (ESStuh-may-ted) (AV-ur-ij) (GLOOkohss): also called eAG or 

average glucose; another way to 

report the results of an A1C test. 

The A1C test measures average 

glucose levels over the past 2 to 

3 months. In the past, results 

were reported as a percentage. 

Results reported as an eAG are 

given as mg/dL, the same units 

used for self-monitoring of blood 

glucose with a blood glucose 

meter. For example, results of 

an A1C test can be reported as 

an eAG of 126 mg/dL, which is 

equal to 6 percent. 

euglycemia (YOO-gly-SEEmee-uh): a normal level of 

glucose in the blood. 

19
 
E–F
 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 

substitutes, and fats. These 

lists allow for substitution for 

different groups to keep the 

nutritional content fixed. 

exenatide (eks-EN-uh-tyd): an 

injectable medicine for diabetes 

that mimics the effect of 

incretin hormones, a type of 

gastrointestinal hormone. This 

medicine helps food move more 

slowly through the stomach 

and helps keep the liver from 

releasing stored glucose. (Brand 

name: Byetta.) 

fasting blood glucose test (FASSting) (bluhd) (GLOO-kohss) 

(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 see whether people 

with diabetes are keeping blood 

glucose levels on target. 

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. 

Sources of fat 

20
 
 

F–G
 fluorescein angiography (flor-ESSee-in) (AN-jee-OG-ruh-fee): a 

test to examine blood vessels in 

the eye that is done by injecting 

dye into an arm vein and then 

taking photos as the dye goes 

through the eye’s blood vessels. 

focal neuropathy (FOH-kuhl) 

(noo-ROP-uh-thee): a type of 

neuropathy in which a single 

nerve or a group of nerves is 

affected, producing sudden 

weakness or pain. 

fructosamine test (frook-TOHSSuh-meen) (test): measures 

the number of blood glucose 

molecules linked to protein 

molecules in the blood. The 

test provides information about 

a person’s average blood glucose 

level for the previous 3 weeks. 

fructose (FROOK-tohss): a sugar 

that occurs naturally in fruits and 

honey. Fructose has 4 calories 

per gram. 

GAD65 (GAD-SIKS-tee-FYV): see 

islet cell autoantibodies. 

gangrene (GANG-green): the 

death of body tissue, most often 

caused by a lack of blood flow 

and infection. Gangrene can 

lead to amputation. 

gastrointestinal (GASS-troh-inTESS-tin-uhl): related to the 

stomach and intestines. 

gastroparesis (GASS-troh-puhREE-siss): 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. 

gastropathy (gass-TROP-uh-thee): 

a form of neuropathy that affects 

the stomach. Symptoms may 

include nausea, discomfort, a 

feeling of fullness, and vomiting. 

The stomach may be delayed in 

emptying, called gastroparesis. 

GDM: see gestational diabetes 

mellitus. 

21
 
 

G
 gestational diabetes mellitus 

(GDM) (jess-TAY-shuhn-uhl) 

(DY-uh-BEE-teez) (MEH-luhtuhss): a type of diabetes that 

develops only during pregnancy 

and usually disappears upon 

delivery but increases the 

mother’s risk of developing 

diabetes later in life. GDM is 

managed with meal planning, 

physical activity, and, in some 

cases, medication. 

GFR: see glomerular filtration rate. 

gingivitis (JIN-jih-VY-tiss): 

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. 

glaucoma (glaw-KOH-muh): an 

increase in fluid pressure inside 

the eye that may lead to vision 

loss. 

glimepiride (gly-MEP-ih-ryd): an 

oral medicine used to treat 

type 2 diabetes. Glimepiride 

lowers blood glucose by helping 

the pancreas make more 

insulin and by helping the body 

better use the insulin it makes. 

Glimepiride belongs to the class 

of medicines called sulfonylureas. 

(Brand name: Amaryl.) 

glipizide (GLIP-ih-zyd): an oral 

medicine used to treat type 2 

diabetes. Glipizide lowers blood 

glucose by helping the pancreas 

make more insulin and by 

helping the body better use 

the insulin it makes. Glipizide 

belongs to the class of medicines 

called sulfonylureas. (Brand 

names: Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL.) 

glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 

(gloh-MAIR-yoo-lur) (fil-TRAYshuhn) (rayt): the rate at which 

the kidneys filter wastes and extra 

fluid from the blood, measured 

in milliliters per minute. 

glomeruli (gloh-MAIR-yoo-ly): 

plural of glomerulus. 

glomerulus (gloh-MAIR-yoo-luhss): 

a tiny set of looping blood vessels 

where the blood is filtered in the 

kidney. 

22
 
 

G
 glucagon (GLOO-kuh-gon): a 

hormone produced by the alpha 

cells in the pancreas. Glucagon 

raises blood glucose. An 

injectable form of glucagon, 

available by prescription, 

may be used to treat severe 

hypoglycemia. 

Glucophage, Glucophage XR 

(GLOO-koh-fahj): see 

metformin. 

glucose (GLOO-kohss): one of the 

simplest forms of sugar. 

glucose gel (GLOO-kohss) (jel): 

pure glucose in gel form used for 

treating hypoglycemia. 

glucose tablets (GLOO-kohss) 

(TAB-lets): chewable tablets 

made of pure glucose used for 

treating hypoglycemia. 

Glucose tablets 

glucose tolerance test (GLOOkohss) (TOL-ur-uhnss) (test): 

see oral glucose tolerance test. 

Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL (GLOOkuh-trohl): see glipizide. 

Glucovance (GLOO-koh-vanss): 

the brand name of an oral 

medicine used to treat type 2 

diabetes; a combination of 

glyburide and metformin. 

glyburide (GLY-buh-ryd): an oral 

medicine used to treat type 2 

diabetes. Glyburide lowers blood 

glucose by helping the pancreas 

make more insulin and by 

helping the body better use the 

insulin it makes. Glyburide 

belongs to the class of medicines 

called sulfonylureas. (Brand 

names: DiaBeta, Glynase 

PresTab, Micronase.) 

glycemic index (gly-SEE-mik) 

(IN-deks): a ranking of a 

carbohydrate-containing food, 

based on the food’s effect on 

blood glucose compared with a 

standard reference food. 

glycemic load (gly-SEE-mik) (lohd): 

a ranking of a carbohydratecontaining food, based on the 

food’s glycemic index and the 

amount of carbohydrate in a 

typical serving. 

23
 
 

G–H
 glycogen (GLY-koh-jen): the form 

of glucose found in the liver and 

muscles; the main source of 

stored fuel in the body. 

glycosuria (GLY-koh-SYOOree-uh): the presence of glucose 

in the urine. 

glycosylated hemoglobin (GLY-kohSY-lay-ted) (HEE-moh-GLOHbin): see A1C. 

Glynase PresTab (GLY-nayz) 

(PRESS-TAB): see glyburide. 

Glyset (GLY-set): 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. 

One slice of bread has 

15 grams of carbohydrate. 

HDL cholesterol (AYCH-DEE-EL) 

(koh-LESS-tur-ol): stands 

for high-density lipoprotein 

cholesterol, which is a fat found 

in the blood that takes extra 

cholesterol from the blood to the 

liver for removal. Sometimes 

called “good” cholesterol. 

heart attack: a condition in which 

the blood vessels to the heart 

become totally or partially 

blocked by fatty deposits. 

When the blood supply is cut 

off or reduced, oxygen and 

other needed supplies can’t get 

through. Then heart muscle can 

die. Also called a myocardial 

infarction. 

heart failure: a chronic condition 

in which the heart cannot pump 

blood properly. 

hemodialysis (HEE-moh-dy-AL-ihsiss): see dialysis. 

hemoglobin A1C test (HEE-mohGLOH-bin) (AY-WUHN-SEE) 

(test): see A1C. 

heredity (huh-RED-ih-tee): the 

passing of a trait from parent 

to child. 

HHNS: see hyperosmolar 

hyperglycemic nonketotic 

syndrome. 

24
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

H
 high blood glucose (hy) (bluhd) 

(GLOO-kohss): see 

hyperglycemia. 

high blood pressure: see 

hypertension. 

high-density lipoprotein cholesterol 

(HY-DEN-sih-tee) (LIP-ohPROH-teen) (koh-LESS-tur-ol): 

see HDL cholesterol. 

HLA: see human leukocyte antigens. 

home glucose monitor (hohm) 

(GLOO-kohss) (MON-ih-tur): 

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—for 

example, 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. 

Humalog (YOO-muh-lawg): see 

insulin lispro. 

Humalog Mix 50/50 (YOO-muhlawg) (mix): see pre-mixed 

insulin. 

Humalog Mix 75/25 (YOO-muhlawg) (mix): see pre-mixed 

insulin. 

human leukocyte antigens (HLA) 

(HYOO-man) (LOO-koh-syt) 

(AN-tih-jens): 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. 

Humulin (YOO-myoo-lin): 

see pre-mixed insulin. 

Humulin 70/30 (YOO-myoo-lin): 

see pre-mixed insulin. 

Humulin N (YOO-myoo-lin): 

see NPH insulin. 

Humulin R (YOO-myoo-lin): 

see regular insulin. 

25
 
 

H
 hyperglycemia (HY-pur-glySEE-mee-uh): higher than 

normal 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-pur-IN-suhlin-EE-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-pur-LIP-ihDEE-mee-uh): higher than 

normal fat and cholesterol levels 

in the blood. 

hyperosmolar hyperglycemic 

nonketotic syndrome (HHNS) 

(HY-pur-oz-MOH-lur) 

(HY-pur-gly-SEE-mik) (nonkee-TOT-ik) (SIN-drohm): 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-pur-TENshuhn): 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. 

Checking blood pressure 

hypoglycemia (HY-poh-glySEE-mee-uh): also called 

low blood glucose, a condition 

that occurs when one’s blood 

glucose is lower than normal, 

usually below 70 mg/dL. 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 

26
 
 

 

 

H–I
 consuming a carbohydrate-rich 

food such as glucose tablets or 

juice. Hypoglycemia 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 

(HY-poh-gly-SEE-mee-uh) 

(uhn-uh-WAIR-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 hypoglycemia’s 

typical warning signs. 

hypotension (HY-poh-TENshuhn): 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. 

IA-2A (EYE-AY-TOO-AY): see 

islet cell autoantibodies. 

IAA (EYE-AY-AY): see islet cell 

autoantibodies. 

ICA512 (EYE-SEE-AY-FYVWUHN-TOO): see islet cell 

autoantibodies. 

ICA (EYE-SEE-AY): see islet cell 

autoantibodies. 

IDDM (EYE-DEE-DEE-EM): 

see insulin-dependent diabetes 

mellitus. 

IFG (EYE-EF-JEE): see impaired 

fasting glucose. 

IGT (EYE-JEE-TEE): see impaired 

glucose tolerance. 

immune system (ih-MYOON) 

(SISS-tuhm): the body’s system 

for protecting itself from viruses 

and bacteria or any foreign 

substances. 

immunosuppressant (IM-yoo-nohsoo-PRESS-uhnt): a drug given 

to stop the natural responses 

of the body’s immune system. 

Immunosuppressants are given 

to prevent organ rejection in 

people who have received organ 

transplants and to patients with 

autoimmune diseases. 

27
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I

impaired fasting glucose (IFG) 

(im-PAIRD) (FASS-ting) 

(GLOO-kohss): a condition in 

which a fasting blood glucose test 

shows a level of glucose higher 

than normal but not high enough 

for a diagnosis of diabetes. IFG, 

also called pre-diabetes, is a level 

of 100 to 125 mg/dL. People with 

pre-diabetes are at increased risk 

for developing type 2 diabetes, 

heart disease, and stroke. 

impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) 

(im-PAIRD) (GLOO-kohss) 

(TOL-ur-uhnss): a condition 

in which blood glucose levels are 

higher than normal but are not 

high enough for a diagnosis of 

diabetes. IGT, also called prediabetes, is a level of 140 to 199 

mg/dL 2 hours after the start 

of an oral glucose tolerance test. 

People with pre-diabetes are at 

increased risk for developing 

type 2 diabetes, heart disease, 

and stroke. Other names for 

IGT that are no longer used 

are “borderline,” “subclinical,” 

“chemical,” or “latent” diabetes. 

implantable insulin pump 

(im-PLANT-uh-buhl) (IN-suhlin) (puhmp): a small pump 

placed inside the body to deliver 

insulin in response to remotecontrol commands from the user. 

impotence (IM-puh-tenss): see 

erectile dysfunction. 

incidence (IN-sih-denss): a 

measure of how often a disease 

occurs; the number of new cases 

of a disease among a certain 

group of people for a certain 

period of time. 

incontinence (in-KON-tih-nenss): 

loss of bladder or bowel control; 

the accidental loss of urine or 

feces. 

incretin mimetic (IN-krit-in) (mihMET-ik): a type of injectable 

medicine for diabetes that mimics 

the effect of incretin hormones, a 

type of gastrointestinal hormone. 

This medicine helps food 

move more slowly through the 

stomach and helps keep the liver 

from releasing stored glucose. 

(Generic name/Brand name: 

exenatide/Byetta.) 

inhaled insulin (in-HAYLD) 

(IN-suh-lin): a type of insulin 

under development taken with 

a special device that enables 

the user to breathe in insulin 

through the mouth. 

injection (in-JEK-shuhn): inserting 

liquid medication or nutrients 

into the body with a syringe. 

28
 
 

 

I

injection site rotation (in-JEKshuhn) (syt) (roh-TAY-shuhn): 

changing the places on the 

body where insulin is injected. 

Rotation prevents the formation 

of lipodystrophies. 

injection sites (in-JEK-shuhn) 

(syts): places on the body where 

insulin is injected. 

insulin (IN-suh-lin): 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, insulin must be taken by 

injection or other means. 

insulin adjustment (IN-suh-lin) 

(uh-JUHST-ment): a change in 

the amount of insulin a person 

with diabetes takes based on 

factors such as meal planning, 

physical activity, and blood 

glucose levels. 

insulin aspart (IN-suh-lin) (ASSpart): a rapid-acting insulin with 

an onset of 15 minutes, a peak at 

30 to 90 minutes, and a duration 

of 3 to 5 hours. (Brand name: 

NovoLog.) 

insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus 

(IDDM) (IN-suh-lin-duhPEN-dent) (DY-uh-BEE-teez) 

(MEH-luh-tuhss): former term 

for type 1 diabetes. 

insulin detemir (IN-suh-lin) (DETih-mihr): a long-acting insulin 

with an onset of 1 hour, no peak, 

and a duration of 20 to 26 hours. 

(Brand name: Levemir.) 

insulin glargine (IN-suh-lin) 

(GLAR-jeen): a type of longacting insulin with an onset of 

1 hour, no peak, and a duration 

of 20 to 26 hours. (Brand name: 

Lantus.) 

insulin glulisine (IN-suh-lin) 

(gloo-LY-seen): a type of 

rapid-acting insulin with an onset 

of 15 minutes, a peak at 30 to 

90 minutes, and a duration of 3 to 

5 hours. (Brand name: Apidra.) 

insulin infuser (IN-suh-lin) 

(in-FYOO-zur): a device for 

taking insulin in which a small 

tube is inserted just below the 

skin and remains in place for 

several days. Insulin is injected 

into the end of the tube. 

insulin lispro (IN-suh-lin) (LISSproh): a type of rapid-acting 

insulin with an onset of 

15 minutes, a peak at 30 to 

90 minutes, and a duration of 3 to 

5 hours. (Brand name: Humalog.) 

29
 
I

insulinoma (IN-suh-lih-NOHmuh): a tumor of the beta 

cells in the pancreas. An 

insulinoma may cause the body 

to make extra insulin, leading to 

hypoglycemia. 

insulin pen (IN-suh-lin) (pen): a 

device for injecting insulin that 

looks like a fountain pen and 

holds replaceable cartridges 

of insulin. Also available in 

disposable form. 

insulin pump (IN-suh-lin) (puhmp): 

an insulin-delivering device 

about the size of a deck of cards 

that can be worn on a belt or 

kept in a pocket. An insulin 

pump connects to narrow, 

flexible plastic tubing that ends 

with a needle inserted just under 

the skin. Users set the pump 

to give a steady trickle or basal 

amount of insulin continuously 

throughout the day. Pumps 

release bolus doses of insulin at 

meals and at times when blood 

glucose is too high, based on 

doses set by the user. 

insulin reaction (IN-suh-lin) (reeAK-shuhn): when the level of 

glucose in the blood is too low 

(below 70 mg/dL). Also called 

hypoglycemia. 

insulin receptors (IN-suh-lin) (reeSEP-turz): areas on the outer 

part of a cell that allow the cell 

to bind with insulin in the blood. 

When the cell and insulin bind, 

the cell can take glucose from the 

blood and use it for energy. 

insulin resistance (IN-suh-lin) 

(ree-ZISS-tuhnss): the body’s 

inability to respond to and use 

the insulin it produces. Insulin 

resistance may be linked to 

obesity, hypertension, and high 

levels of fat in the blood. 

insulin shock (IN-suh-lin) (shok): 

see hypoglycemia. 

intensive therapy: a treatment for 

diabetes in which blood glucose 

is kept as close to normal as 

possible. Optimal blood glucose 

levels are reached through 

frequent injections of insulin 

or use of an insulin pump, 

meal planning, adjustment of 

medicines, and physical activity. 

People undergoing intensive 

therapy work closely with their 

health care team. 

30
 
 

I

intermediate-acting insulin 

(IN-tur-MEE-dee-uht-AKT-ing) 

(IN-suh-lin): a type of insulin 

with an onset of 1 to 3 hours, a 

peak at 8 hours, and a duration of 

12 to 16 hours. See NPH insulin. 

intermittent claudication (IN-turMIT-ent) (CLAW-dih-KAYshuhn): pain that comes and 

goes in the muscles of the leg. 

This pain results from a lack 

of blood supply to the legs and 

usually happens when walking or 

exercising. 

intramuscular injection (IN-truhMUHSS-kyoo-lur) (in-JEKshuhn): inserting liquid 

medication into a muscle with a 

syringe. Glucagon may be given 

by intramuscular or subcutaneous 

injection for hypoglycemia. 

islet cell autoantibodies (ICAs) 

(EYE-let) (sel) (AW-toh-AN-tihbod-eez): proteins found in the 

blood of people newly diagnosed 

with type 1 diabetes. They are 

also found in people who may 

be developing type 1 diabetes. 

The presence of ICAs indicates 

the body’s immune system has 

been damaging beta cells in the 

pancreas. The antibodies that 

are routinely tested for include 

IAA, IA-2A, ICA512, and GAD65 

(also called GAD or GADA). 

islets (EYE-lets): groups of cells 

located in the pancreas that 

make hormones that help the 

body break down and use food. 

For example, alpha cells make 

glucagon and beta cells make 

insulin. Also called islets of 

Langerhans. 

islets of Langerhans (EYE-lets) 

(uhv) (LAHNG-ur-hahnz): 

see islets. 

islet transplantation (EYE-let) 

(TRANZ-plan-TAY-shuhn): 

moving the islets from a donor 

pancreas into a person whose 

pancreas has stopped producing 

insulin. Beta cells in the islets 

make the insulin that the body 

needs for using blood glucose. 

31
 
J–K
 Janumet (JAN-yoo-met): the 

brand name of an oral medicine 

used to treat type 2 diabetes; 

a combination of sitagliptin 

phosphate and metformin. 

Januvia (juh-NOO-vee-uh): see 

sitagliptin phosphate. 

jet injector (jet) (in-JEK-tur): a 

device that uses high pressure 

instead of a needle to propel 

insulin through the skin and into 

the body. 

juvenile diabetes (JOO-vuh-nyl) 

(DY-uh-BEE-teez): former 

term for insulin-dependent 

diabetes mellitus (IDDM) or 

type 1 diabetes. 

ketoacidosis (KEE-toh-ASSih-DOH-siss): see diabetic 

ketoacidosis. 

ketone (KEE-tohn): 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. Sometimes referred to as 

ketone bodies. 

ketonuria (KEE-toh-NYOO-ree-uh): 

a condition occurring when ketones 

are present in the urine, a warning 

sign of diabetic ketoacidosis. 

ketosis (kee-TOH-siss): a ketone 

buildup in the body that may lead 

to diabetic ketoacidosis. Signs of 

ketosis are nausea, vomiting, and 

stomach pain. 

32
 
 

K–L
 kidney: one of the two bean-shaped 

organs that filter wastes from the 

blood. The kidneys are located 

near the middle of the back, one 

on each side of the spine. They 

create urine, which is delivered 

to the bladder. 

Kidneys 

Kidneys 

kidney disease: see nephropathy. 

kidney failure: loss of kidney 

function. See acute renal failure, 

chronic kidney disease, and endstage renal disease. 

Kussmaul breathing (KOOS-moul) 

(BREE-thing): the rapid, deep, 

and labored breathing of people 

who have diabetic ketoacidosis. 

lactic acidosis (LAK-tik) (ASS-ihDOH-siss): a serious condition 

in which there is a buildup of 

lactic acid in the body. Lactic 

acidosis can result from diabetic 

ketoacidosis, liver disease, or 

kidney disease. 

LADA (LAH-DUH): see latent 

autoimmune diabetes in adults. 

lancet (LAN-set): a spring-loaded 

device used to prick the skin 

with a small needle to obtain a 

drop of blood for blood glucose 

monitoring. 

Lantus (LAN-tuhss): see insulin 

glargine. 

laser 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. 

33
 
 

L
 latent autoimmune diabetes in 

adults (LADA) (LAY-tent) 

(AW-toh-ih-MYOON) (DY-uhBEE-teez) (in) (uh-DUHLTS): 

a type of diabetes, usually first 

diagnosed after age 30, in which 

people show signs of both type 1 

diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Most 

people with LADA still produce 

their own insulin when first 

diagnosed and do not require 

insulin injections. Some experts 

believe that LADA is a slowly 

developing kind of type 1 

diabetes because patients have 

antibodies against the insulinproducing beta cells in the 

pancreas. Several years after 

diagnosis, people with LADA 

must take insulin to control blood 

glucose levels. 

LDL cholesterol (EL-DEE-EL) 

(koh-LESS-tur-ol): stands 

for low-density lipoprotein 

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. 

Levemir (LEV-uh-mihr): see 

insulin detemir. 

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 (LIP-id) (PROH-fyl): 

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-rohfee): loss of fat under the 

skin resulting in small dents. 

Lipoatrophy may be caused by 

repeated injections of insulin in 

the same spot. 

34
 
 

 

 

 

L
 lipodystrophy (LIP-oh-DISS-trohfee): a 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. Lipodystrophy may 

be caused by repeated injections 

of insulin in the same spot. See 

lipoatrophy and lipohypertrophy. 

lipohypertrophy (LIP-oh-hy-PURtroh-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. 

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. 

Liver 

Liver 

long-acting insulin (long-AK-ting) 

(IN-suh-lin): a type of insulin 

with an onset of 1 hour, no peak, 

and a duration of 20 to 26 hours. 

See insulin detemir and insulin 

glargine. 

low blood glucose (loh) (bluhd) 

(GLOO-kohss): see 

hypoglycemia. 

low blood pressure: see 

hypotension. 

low-density lipoprotein cholesterol 

(LOH-DEN-sih-tee) (LIP-ohPROH-teen) (koh-LESS-tur-ol): 

see LDL cholesterol. 

lymphatic vessels (lim-FAT-ik) 

(VESS-uhlz): thin tubes in the 

body that carry white blood cells 

and lymphatic fluid. Lymphatic 

fluid has cells that fight 

infection. 

35
 
M
 macrosomia (MAK-roh-SOHmee-uh): abnormally large; in 

diabetes, refers to abnormally 

large babies that may be born to 

women with diabetes. 

Macrosomia 

macrovascular disease (MAK-rohVASS-kyoo-lur) (dih-ZEEZ): 

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 arterial disease. 

macula (MAK-yoo-luh): the part 

of the retina in the eye used for 

reading and seeing fine detail. 

macular edema (MAK-yoo-lur) 

(eh-DEE-muh): swelling of the 

macula. 

maturity-onset diabetes of the 

young (MODY) (muh-CHURih-tee-AWN-set) (DY-uh-BEEteez) (uhv) (thuh) (yuhng): a 

monogenic form of diabetes 

that usually first occurs during 

adolescence or early adulthood. 

meglitinide (meh-GLIH-tih-nyd): 

a type of oral medicine for 

type 2 diabetes that lowers blood 

glucose by helping the pancreas 

make more insulin right after 

meals. (Generic name/Brand 

name: repaglinide/Prandin.) 

metabolic syndrome (MET-uhBOL-ik) (SIN-drohm): a 

grouping of health conditions 

associated with an increased 

risk for heart disease and 

type 2 diabetes. Conditions 

include hypertension, a large 

waist, high triglyceride levels, 

low HDL cholesterol levels, and 

above-normal blood glucose 

levels. Metabolic syndrome was 

previously called Syndrome X. 

metabolism (meh-TAB-ohlizm): all of the chemical and 

physical processes in the body 

necessary for life. Processes 

include breaking down food for 

energy and producing needed 

substances. 

36
 
 

 

 

 

M
 Metaglip (MET-uh-glip): the 

brand name of an oral medicine 

used to treat type 2 diabetes; a 

combination of glipizide and 

metformin. 

metformin (met-FOR-min): an 

oral medicine used to treat 

type 2 diabetes. Metformin 

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. 

Metformin belongs to the class 

of medicines called biguanides. 

(Brand names: Glucophage, 

Glucophage XR, Riomet.) 

mg/dL: milligrams per deciliter 

(MIL-ih-gramz) (pur) (DESSih-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-kroh-al-BYOOmin): small amounts of the 

protein called albumin in the 

urine detectable with a special 

laboratory test. See albumin. 

microaneurysm (MY-kroh-ANyoo-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 (MY-kroh-nayz): see 

glyburide. 

microvascular disease (MY-krohVASS-kyoo-lur) (dih-ZEEZ): 

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-tol): an oral 

medicine used to treat type 2 

diabetes. Miglitol slows down 

the digestion of foods high in 

carbohydrate, such as rice, bread, 

milk, and fruit. The result is a 

slower and lower rise in blood 

glucose after meals. Miglitol 

belongs to the class of medicines 

called alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. 

(Brand name: Glyset.) 

37
 
 

M
 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 to provide 

both short- and long-term 

control of blood glucose levels. 

mmol/L: millimoles per liter (MILih-mohlz) (pur) (LEE-tur); 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. 

MODY (MOH-dee): see maturityonset diabetes of the young. 

monitor: see blood glucose meter. 

monofilament (MON-oh-FIL-uhment): a short piece of nylon, 

like a hairbrush bristle, mounted 

on a wand. To check sensitivity 

of the nerves in the foot, the 

doctor touches the filament to 

the bottom of the foot. 

monogenic (MON-oh-JEN-ik): 

related to a single gene. Some 

rare forms of diabetes are 

monogenic, including neonatal 

diabetes mellitus and maturityonset diabetes of the young 

(MODY). 

mononeuropathy (MON-ohnoo-ROP-uh-thee): a type of 

neuropathy affecting a single 

nerve. 

myocardial infarction (MY-ohKAR-dee-uhl) (in-FARK-shuhn): 

see heart attack. 

38
 
 

 

 

 

N
 NAFLD (EN-AY-EF-EL-DEE): 

see nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. 

NASH (nuhsh): see nonalcoholic 

steatohepatitis. 

nateglinide (nuh-TEG-lih-nyd): 

an oral medicine used to treat 

type 2 diabetes. Nateglinide 

lowers blood glucose levels by 

helping the pancreas make 

more insulin right after meals. 

Nateglinide belongs to the 

class of medicines called 

D-phenylalanine derivatives. 

(Brand name: Starlix.) 

NDM: see neonatal diabetes mellitus. 

necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum 

(NEK-roh-by-OH-siss) (lihPOY-dih-kuh) (DY-uh-bet-ihKOR-uhm): 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. 

neonatal diabetes mellitus (NDM) 

(NEE-oh-NAY-tuhl) (DY-uhBEE-teez) (MEH-luh-tuhss): a 

rare, monogenic form of diabetes 

that occurs in the first 6 months 

of life. In about half of those 

with NDM, the condition is 

lifelong and is called permanent 

neonatal diabetes mellitus (PNDM). 

In the rest of those with NDM, 

the condition is transient and 

disappears during infancy but 

can reappear later in life; this 

type of NDM is called transient 

neonatal diabetes mellitus 

(TNDM). 

neotame (NEE-oh-taym): a dietary 

sweetener with no calories and 

no nutritional value. 

neovascularization (NEE-ohVASS-kyoo-lar-ih-ZAY-shuhn): 

the growth of new, small blood 

vessels. In the retina, this may 

lead to vision loss or blindness. 

nephrologist (neh-FROL-uh-jist): 

a doctor who treats people who 

have kidney problems. 

nephropathy (neh-FROP-uhthee): 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 wastes and extra fluid 

from the bloodstream. 

nerve conduction studies: tests 

used to measure for nerve 

damage; one way to diagnose 

neuropathy. 

nerve disease: see neuropathy. 

39
 
 

 

N
 neurogenic bladder (NOO-rohJEN-ik) (BLAD-ur): loss 

of bladder control caused by 

damage to the nerves controlling 

the bladder. 

neurologist (noo-ROL-uh-jist): 

a doctor who specializes in 

problems of the nervous system, 

such as neuropathy. 

neuropathy (noo-ROP-uhthee): 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 the legs and feet. 

NIDDM (EN-EYE-DEEDEE-EM): see noninsulindependent diabetes mellitus. 

nonalcoholic fatty liver disease 

(NAFLD) (NON-al-kohHOL-ik) (FAT-ee) (LIV-ur) 

(dih-ZEEZ): fat in the liver. 

NAFLD can lead to nonalcoholic 

steatohepatitis (NASH) and 

chronic liver disease. NAFLD 

can be a complication of insulin 

resistance and diabetes. 

nonalcoholic steatohepatitis 

(NASH) (NON-al-koh-HOL-ik) 

(STEE-uh-toh-HEP-uh-TYtiss): a common liver disease, 

often without symptoms, that 

resembles alcoholic liver disease 

but occurs in people who 

drink little or no alcohol. The 

major characteristic of NASH 

is fat in the liver, along with 

inflammation and damage. 

NASH can be a complication of 

insulin resistance and diabetes. 

noninsulin-dependent diabetes 

mellitus (NIDDM) (NON-INsuh-lin-duh-PEN-dent) (DY-uhBEE-teez) (MEH-luh-tuhss): 

former term for type 2 diabetes. 

noninvasive blood glucose 

monitoring (NON-in-VAY-siv) 

(bluhd) (GLOO-kohss) (MONih-TUR-ing): measuring blood 

glucose without pricking the 

finger to obtain a blood sample. 

40
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

N–O
 Novolin 70/30 (NOH-voh-lin): 

see pre-mixed insulin. 

Novolin N (NOH-voh-lin): 

see NPH insulin. 

Novolin R (NOH-voh-lin): 

see regular insulin. 

NovoLog (NOH-voh-lawg): 

see insulin aspart. 

NovoLog Mix 70/30 (NOH-vohlawg) (mix): see pre-mixed 

insulin. 

NPH insulin (EN-PEE-AYCH) 

(IN-suh-lin): an intermediateacting insulin with an onset of 

1 to 3 hours, a peak at 8 hours, 

and a duration of 12 to 16 hours. 

Also called N insulin. (Brand 

names: Humulin N, Novolin N.) 

nutritionist (noo-TRISH-uhnist): a person with training 

in nutrition; may or may not 

have specialized training and 

qualifications. See dietitian. 

obesity (oh-BEE-sih-tee): 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-stuh-TRISH-uhn): 

a doctor who treats pregnant 

women and delivers babies. 

OGTT: see oral glucose tolerance 

test. 

onset: in referring to insulin, how 

soon the insulin starts to lower 

blood glucose levels after it is 

taken. Onset may also refer to 

the time when a person’s diabetes 

began. 

ophthalmologist (AHF-thal-MOLuh-jist): a medical doctor who 

diagnoses and treats all eye 

diseases and eye disorders. 

Ophthalmologists can also 

prescribe glasses and contact 

lenses. 

Ophthalmologist 

41
 
 

O
 optician (op-TISH-uhn): a health 

care professional who dispenses 

glasses and lenses. An optician 

also makes and fits contact 

lenses. 

optometrist (op-TOM-uh-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) 

(OR-uhl) (GLOO-kohss) 

(TOL-ur-uhnss) (test): 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 taken and then the patient 

drinks a high-glucose beverage. 

Blood samples are taken at 

hourly intervals for 2 to 3 hours. 

Test results are compared with a 

standard and show how the body 

uses glucose over time. 

oral hypoglycemic agents 

(OR-uhl) (HY-poh-gly-SEEmik) (AY-jents): medicines 

taken by mouth by people 

with type 2 diabetes to keep 

blood glucose levels as close to 

normal as possible. Types of 

oral hypoglycemic agents are 

alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, 

biguanides, D-phenylalanine 

derivatives, DPP-4 inhibitors, 

meglitinides, sulfonylureas, and 

thiazolidinediones. 

overweight: an above-normal body 

weight; having a body mass index 

of 25 to 29. 

42
 
 

 

P
 PAD (PEE-AY-DEE): see 

peripheral arterial disease. 

pancreas (PAN-kree-uhss): 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. 

Pancreas 

Pancreas 

pancreas transplantation (PANkree-uhss) (TRANZ-plan-TAYshuhn): a surgical procedure to 

take a healthy whole or partial 

pancreas from a donor and place 

it into a person with diabetes. 

pancreatitis (PAN-kree-uh-TYtiss): an irritation of the 

pancreas that can cause it to 

stop working. Pancreatitis can 

be acute or chronic. Diabetes 

may develop when pancreatic 

tissue is destroyed from chronic 

pancreatitis and the insulinproducing cells of the pancreas, 

called beta cells, have been 

damaged. Pancreatitis can also 

occur as a side effect of the 

diabetes medication exenatide 

(Byetta). 

PCOS (PEE-SEE-OH-ESS): see 

polycystic ovary syndrome. 

peak: in referring to insulin speeds, 

the length of time the insulin is 

working hardest to lower blood 

glucose levels. 

pediatric endocrinologist (PEEdee-AT-rik) (en-doh-krih-NAHluh-jist): a doctor who treats 

children who have endocrine 

gland problems such as diabetes. 

pedorthist (ped-OR-thist): a health 

care professional who specializes 

in fitting shoes for people with 

disabilities or deformities. A 

pedorthist can custom-make 

shoes or orthotics (special inserts 

for shoes). 

43
 
 

 

P
 pen injector (pen) (in-JEK-tur): 

a penlike device for injecting 

insulin; contains a needle and a 

cartridge of insulin. 

periodontal disease (PAIR-ee-ohDON-tuhl) (dih-ZEEZ): disease 

of the gums. 

periodontist (PAIR-ee-oh-DONtist): a dentist who specializes 

in treating people who have gum 

diseases. 

peripheral arterial disease (PAD) 

(puh-RIF-ur-uhl) (ar-TEEree-uhl) (dih-ZEEZ): also 

called peripheral vascular 

disease; a condition in which 

the large blood vessels of the 

legs are narrowed or blocked 

by fatty deposits, decreasing 

blood flow to the legs and feet. 

PAD increases the chances of 

amputation, heart attack, and 

stroke. 

peripheral neuropathy (puh-RIFur-uhl) (noo-ROP-uh-thee): 

nerve damage that affects the 

feet, legs, or hands. Peripheral 

neuropathy causes pain, 

numbness, or a tingling feeling. 

peripheral vascular disease (PVD) 

(puh-RIF-ur-uhl) (VASS-kyoolur) (dih-ZEEZ): see peripheral 

arterial disease. 

peritoneal dialysis (PAIR-ih-tohNEE-uhl) (dy-AL-ih-siss): see 

dialysis. 

permanent neonatal diabetes 

mellitus (PNDM) (PUR-muhnent) (NEE-oh-NAY-tuhl) 

(DY-uh-BEE-teez) (MEH-luhtuhss): a rare, monogenic form 

of diabetes that first occurs in 

the first 6 months of life and is a 

permanent condition. 

pharmacist (FAR-muh-sist): a 

health care professional who 

prepares and distributes 

medicine to people. Pharmacists 

also give information about 

medicines. 

Pharmacist 

44
 
P
 photocoagulation (FOH-tohkoh-AG-yoo-LAY-shuhn): a 

treatment for diabetic retinopathy. 

A laser—a strong beam of 

light—is used to seal off bleeding 

blood vessels in the eye and to 

burn away extra blood vessels 

that should not have grown 

there. 

pioglitazone (py-oh-GLIH-tuhzohn): an oral medicine used to 

treat type 2 diabetes. Pioglitazone 

helps treat insulin resistance, the 

condition in which your body 

doesn’t use insulin the way it 

should. Pioglitazone belongs 

to the class of medicines called 

thiazolidinediones. (Brand name: 

Actos.) 

PNDM: see permanent neonatal 

diabetes mellitus. 

podiatrist (poh-DY-uh-trist): a 

doctor who treats people who 

have foot problems. Podiatrists 

also help people keep their feet 

healthy by providing regular foot 

examinations and treatment. 

podiatry (poh-DY-uh-tree): the 

care and treatment of feet. 

point system: a meal-planning 

system that uses points to rate 

the caloric content of foods. 

polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) 

(POL-ee-SISS-tik) (OH-vuhree) (SIN-drohm): a condition 

in which women have high levels 

of male hormones, increasing 

the risk of irregular or absent 

menstrual cycles, infertility, 

obesity, ovarian cysts, heart 

disease, and diabetes. PCOS is 

associated with insulin resistance. 

polydipsia (POL-ee-DIP-see-uh): 

excessive thirst; may be a sign of 

diabetes. 

polyphagia (POL-ee-FAY-jee-uh): 

excessive hunger; may be a sign 

of diabetes. 

polyuria (POL-ee-YOO-ree-uh): 

excessive urination; may be a 

sign of diabetes. 

postprandial blood glucose 

(pohst-PRAN-dee-uhl) (bluhd) 

(GLOO-kohss): the blood 

glucose level 1 to 2 hours after 

eating. 

pramlintide acetate (PRAMlin-tyd) (ASS-ih-tayt): an 

injectable medicine used to 

treat diabetes. Pramlintide helps 

food move more slowly through 

the stomach and helps keep 

the liver from releasing stored 

glucose. Pramlintide belongs 

to the class of medicines called 

amylin mimetics. (Brand name: 

Symlin.) 

45
 
 

 

 

	 	 	 	 	 	

 

	 	 	 	 	 	

 

	 	 	 	 	 	

 

	 	 	 	 	 	

 

	 	 	 	 	 	

 

 

P
 Prandin (PRAN-din): see 

repaglinide. 

Precose (PREE-kohss): see 

acarbose. 

pre-diabetes (PREE-dy-uh-BEEteez): a condition in which blood 

glucose levels are higher than 

normal but are not high enough 

for a diagnosis of diabetes. 

People with pre-diabetes are at 

increased risk for developing 

type 2 diabetes, heart disease, 

and stroke. Other names for 

pre-diabetes are impaired glucose 

tolerance and impaired fasting 

glucose. 

pre-mixed insulin (PREE-MIKSD) 

(IN-suh-lin): a commercially 

produced combination of 

two different types of insulin. 

Several types are available: 

n	 Pre-mixed NPH and regular 

insulin: 

• 70 percent NPH and

30 percent regular (Brand 

names: Humulin 70/30, 

Novolin 70/30.) 

• 50 percent NPH and

50 percent regular (Brand 

name: Humulin 50/50.) 

n	 Pre-mixed insulin lispro 

suspension and insulin lispro: 

• 75 percent insulin lispro

protamine and 25 percent 

insulin lispro (Brand name: 

Humalog Mix 75/25.) 

• 50 percent insulin lispro

protamine and 50 percent 

insulin lispro (Brand name: 

Humalog Mix 50/50.) 

n	 Pre-mixed insulin aspart 

protamine suspension and 

insulin aspart: 

• 70 percent insulin aspart

protamine and 30 percent 

insulin aspart (Brand name: 

NovoLog Mix 70/30.) 

preprandial blood glucose (preePRAN-dee-uhl) (bluhd) 

(GLOO-kohss): the blood 

glucose level before eating. 

prevalence (PREV-uh-luhnss): 

the number of people in a given 

group or population who are 

reported to have a disease. 

46
 
P
 proinsulin (proh-IN-suh-lin): 

the substance made first in the 

pancreas and then broken into 

several pieces to become insulin. 

proliferative retinopathy (prohLIF-ur-uh-tiv) (RET-ih-NOPuh-thee): a condition in which 

fragile new blood vessels grow 

along the retina and in the 

vitreous humor of the eye. 

prosthesis (pross-THEE-siss): 

a man-made substitute for a 

missing body part such as an arm 

or a leg. 

protein (PROH-teen): 1. one of 

the three main nutrients 

in food. Foods that provide 

protein include meat, poultry, 

fish, cheese, milk, dairy products, eggs, and dried beans. 

2. proteins are also used in the 

body for cell structure, hormones 

such as insulin, and other 

functions. 

Sources of protein 

47
 

proteinuria (proh-teen-YOOree-uh): a condition in which 

the urine contains large amounts 

of protein, a sign that the kidneys 

are not working properly. 

proximal neuropathy (PROK-sihmuhl) (noo-ROP-uh-thee): a 

type of neuropathy that causes 

pain in the thighs, hips, or 

buttocks and leads to weakness 

in the legs. 

pump: see insulin pump. 
 

R
 rapid-acting insulin (RA-pid-AKting) (IN-suh-lin): a type of 

insulin with an onset of 

15 minutes, a peak at 30 to 

90 minutes, and a duration of 

3 to 5 hours. See insulin aspart, 

insulin glulisine, and insulin 

lispro. 

rebound hyperglycemia (REEbound) (HY-pur-gly-SEEmee-uh): see Somogyi effect. 

receptors (ree-SEP-turz): see 

insulin receptors. 

Recognized Diabetes Education 

Programs (REH-kig-NYZD) 

(DY-uh-BEE-teez) (EH-juhKAY-shuhn) (PROH-gramz): 

diabetes self-management 

education programs that are 

approved by the American 

Diabetes Association. 

regular insulin (REH-gyuh-lur) 

(IN-suh-lin): a short-acting 

insulin with an onset of 30 to 

60 minutes, a peak of 2 to 4 hours, 

and a duration of 5 to 8 hours. 

Also called R insulin. (Brand 

names: Humulin R, Novolin R.) 

renal (REE-nuhl): of or relating to 

the kidneys. A renal disease is 

a disease of the kidneys. Renal 

failure means the kidneys have 

stopped working. 

renal threshold of glucose (REEnuhl) (THRESH-ohld) (uhv) 

(GLOO-kohss): the blood 

glucose concentration at which 

the kidneys start to excrete 

glucose into the urine. 

repaglinide (ruh-PAG-luh-nyd): 

an oral medicine used to treat 

type 2 diabetes. Repaglinide 

lowers blood glucose by helping 

the pancreas make more insulin 

right after meals. Repaglinide 

belongs to the class of medicines 

called meglitinides. (Brand 

name: Prandin.) 

retina (RET-ih-nuh): the lightsensitive layer of tissue that 

lines the back of the eye. 

retinal hemorrhages (RET-ih-nuhl) 

(HEM-uh-ruhj-ez): bleeding 

blood vessels in the retina, which 

can cause protein deposits, or 

exudates, in the retina. Laser 

surgery is required to prevent 

blindness. Retinal hemorrhage 

is a common form of diabetic 

retinopathy. 

48
 
 

 

R–S
 retinopathy (RET-ih-NOPuh-thee): see background 

retinopathy, proliferative 

retinopathy, and diabetic 

retinopathy. 

R insulin (AR) (IN-suh-lin): see 

regular insulin. 

Riomet (RY-oh-met): see 

metformin. 

risk factor: anything that raises the 

chances of a person developing a 

disease. 

rosiglitazone (rohss-ih-GLIHtuh-zohn): an oral medicine 

used to treat type 2 diabetes. 

Rosiglitazone helps treat insulin 

resistance, the condition in which 

your body doesn’t use insulin 

the way it should. Rosiglitazone 

belongs to the class of medicines 

called thiazolidinediones. (Brand 

name: Avandia.) 

saccharin (SAK-uh-rin): a dietary 

sweetener with no calories and 

no nutritional value. 

saturated fat: a type of dietary 

fat that can increase the risk 

of heart disease. Saturated fat 

is found in meat, poultry skin, 

butter, lard, shortening, and all 

milk and dairy products except 

fat-free versions. 

secondary diabetes (SEK-uhnDAIR-ee) (DY-uh-BEE-teez): 

a type of diabetes caused by 

another disease or certain drugs 

or chemicals. 

self-management: the ongoing 

process of managing diabetes. 

Includes meal planning, planned 

physical activity, blood glucose 

monitoring, taking diabetes 

medicines, handling episodes of 

illness and of low blood glucose 

and high blood glucose, managing 

diabetes when traveling, and 

more. The person with diabetes 

designs his or her own selfmanagement treatment plan in 

consultation with a variety of 

health care professionals such 

as doctors, nurses, dietitians, 

pharmacists, and others. 

sharps container: a container for 

the disposal of used needles 

and syringes; often made of 

hard plastic so needles cannot 

penetrate the container. 

49
 
 

S
 

short-acting insulin (short-AK-ting) 

(IN-suh-lin): a type of insulin 

with an onset of 30 to 60 minutes, 

a peak at 2 to 4 hours, and a 

duration of 5 to 8 hours. See 

regular insulin. 

side effects: the unintended 

action(s) of a drug. 

sitagliptin phosphate (sih-tuhGLIP-tin) (FOSS-fayt): an oral 

medicine used to treat type 2 

diabetes. Sitagliptin lowers blood 

glucose by helping the body make 

more insulin when it’s needed. 

It also helps keep the liver from 

putting stored glucose into the 

blood. Sitagliptin belongs to 

the class of medicines called 

DPP-4 inhibitors. (Brand name: 

Januvia.) 

sliding scale: a set of instructions 

for adjusting insulin on the basis 

of blood glucose test results, 

meals, or activity levels. 

Somogyi effect (soh-MOHjee) (uh-FEKT): when the 

blood glucose level swings high 

following low blood glucose, or 

hypoglycemia. The Somogyi 

effect may follow an untreated 

hypoglycemic episode during 

the night and is caused by the 

release of stress hormones. Also 

called rebound hyperglycemia. 

sorbitol (SOR-bih-tol): 1. a sugar 

alcohol—a sweetener—with 

4 calories per gram. 2. a 

substance produced by the 

body in people with diabetes 

that can cause damage to the 

eyes and nerves. 

split mixed dose: division of a 

prescribed daily dose of insulin 

into two or more injections given 

over the course of the day. 

starch: another name for 

carbohydrate, one of the three 

main nutrients in food. 

Starlix (STAR-liks): see nateglinide. 

stroke: a condition in which the 

blood supply to the brain is 

suddenly cut off, caused by a 

blockage or the bursting of 

a blood vessel in the brain or 

neck. Then brain tissue can be 

damaged. A stroke can cause 

a person to lose the ability to 

speak or move parts of the body. 

subcutaneous injection (SUHBkyoo-TAY-nee-uhss) (in-JEKshuhn): putting a fluid into 

the tissue under the skin with a 

needle and syringe. 

sucralose (SOO-kruh-LOHSS): a 

dietary sweetener made from 

sugar but with no calories and no 

nutritional value. 

50
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

S
 sucrose (SOO-krohss): a twopart sugar made of glucose and 

fructose. Known as table sugar or 

white sugar, it is found naturally 

in sugar cane and beets. 

sugar: 1. a class of carbohydrates 

with a sweet taste; includes 

glucose, fructose, and sucrose. 

2. a term used to refer to blood 

glucose. 

sugar alcohols: sweeteners that 

produce a smaller rise in blood 

glucose than other carbohydrates. 

Their calorie content is about 

2 calories per gram. Includes 

erythritol, hydrogenated starch 

hydrolysates, isomalt, lactitol, 

maltitol, mannitol, sorbitol, and 

xylitol. Also known as polyols. 

sugar diabetes (SHU-gur) (DY-uhBEE-teez): former term for 

diabetes mellitus. 

sulfonylurea (SUHL-foh-nilyoo-REE-uh): a class of oral 

medicine for type 2 diabetes 

that lowers blood glucose by 

helping the pancreas make more 

insulin and by helping the body 

better use the insulin it makes. 

(Generic names/Brand names: 

chlorpropamide/Diabinese; 

glimepiride/Amaryl; glipizide/ 

Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL; glyburide/ 

DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, 

Micronase; tolazamide [generic 

only]; tolbutamide [generic only].) 

Sunett (SOO-net): see acesulfame 

potassium. 

Symlin (SIM-lin): see pramlintide 

acetate. 

Syndrome X: see insulin resistance 

and metabolic syndrome. 

syringe (suh-RINJ): a device used 

to inject medications or other 

liquids into body tissues. The 

syringe for insulin has a hollow 

plastic tube with a plunger inside 

and a needle on the end. 

Syringe 

systolic pressure (siss-TOL-ik) 

(PRESH-ur): the blood pressure 

when the heart pushes blood out 

into the arteries. 

51
 
 

 

T
 team management: a diabetes 

treatment approach in which 

medical care is provided by a 

team of health care professionals 

including a doctor, dietitian, 

nurse, diabetes educator, and 

others. The team provides 

information and advises the 

person with diabetes. 

thiazolidinedione (THY-uhZOHL-ih-deen-DY-ohn): 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/Brand names: 

pioglitazone/Actos; rosiglitazone/ 

Avandia.) 

TIA (TEE-EYE-AY): see transient 

ischemic attack. 

tight control: see intensive therapy. 

tinea pedis (TIN-ee-uh) (PEEdiss): see athlete’s foot. 

TNDM: see transient neonatal 

diabetes mellitus. 

tolazamide (tol-AZ-uh-myd): 

an oral medicine used to treat 

type 2 diabetes. Tolazamide 

lowers blood glucose by helping 

the pancreas make more 

insulin and by helping the body 

better use the insulin it makes. 

Tolazamide belongs to the class 

of medicines called sulfonylureas. 

(Available only in generic form.) 52 

tolbutamide (tol-BYOO-tuh-myd): 

an oral medicine used to treat 

type 2 diabetes. Tolbutamide 

lowers blood glucose by helping 

the pancreas make more 

insulin and by helping the body 

better use the insulin it makes. 

Tolbutamide belongs to the class 

of medicines called sulfonylureas. 

(Available only in generic form.) 

trans fat: a type of dietary fat 

that increases the risk of heart 

disease. Trans fat is produced 

when liquid oils are turned 

into solids through a process 

called hydrogenation. Foods 

with trans fat include those 

listing hydrogenated or partially 

hydrogenated fat on the 

label, such as crackers, snack 

foods, commercially produced 

baked goods, and some stick 

margarines. 

transient ischemic attack (TIA) 

(TRANZ-see-uhnt) (iss-KEEmik) (uh-TAK): a condition in 

which blood flow to the brain is 

temporarily blocked. TIAs can 

cause temporary weakness or 

numbness, sudden confusion, 

dizziness, vision problems, or 

severe headache. 
 

 

T
 transient neonatal diabetes mellitus 

(TNDM) (TRANZ-see-uhnt) 

(NEE-oh-NAY-tuhl) (DY-uhBEE-teez) (MEH-luh-tuhss): a 

rare, monogenic form of diabetes 

that occurs in the first 6 months 

of life. TNDM disappears 

during infancy but can reappear 

later in life. 

transplant (TRANZ-plant): 

replacement of a damaged or 

diseased organ with a healthy 

one. 

triglyceride (try-GLISS-ur-eyed): 

the storage form of fat in the 

body. High triglyceride levels 

may occur when diabetes is out 

of control. 

type 1 diabetes (typ) (whuhn) 

(DY-uh-BEE-teez): 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 (typ) (too) (DY-uhBEE-teez): 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 children, teens, and young 

people. 

type I diabetes (typ) (whuhn) 

(DY-uh-BEE-teez): former 

term for type 1 diabetes. 

type II diabetes (typ) (too) (DY-uhBEE-teez): former term for 

type 2 diabetes. 

53
 
 

 

U
 U-100 (YOO-whuhn-HUHN-dred): 

see unit of insulin. 

UKPDS: see United Kingdom 

Prospective Diabetes Study. 

ulcer (UHL-sur): a deep, open 

sore or break in the skin. 

United Kingdom Prospective 

Diabetes Study (UKPDS) 

(yoo-NY-ted) (KING-duhm) 

(pruh-SPEK-tiv) (STUHD-ee): 

a British study 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. 

unit of insulin (YOO-nit) (uhv) 

(IN-suh-lin): 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. 

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-uh): 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. 

urinalysis (YOOR-ih-NAL-ih-siss): 

a test of a urine sample that can 

reveal many problems of the 

urinary tract and other body 

systems. The sample may be 

observed for color, cloudiness, 

concentration; signs of drug use; 

chemical composition, including 

glucose; the presence of protein, 

blood cells, or germs; or other 

signs of disease. 

urine (YOOR-in): liquid waste 

product filtered from the blood 

by the kidneys, stored in the 

bladder, and expelled from the 

body by the act of urinating. 

urologist (yoo-ROL-uh-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 erectile 

dysfunction. 

54
 
 

 

V
 vaginal yeast (VAJ-ih-nuhl) (yeest): 

see Candida. 

vascular (VASS-kyoo-lur): relating 

to the body’s blood vessels. 

Vascular system 

vein (vayn): a blood vessel that 

carries blood to the heart. 

very-low-density lipoprotein 

(VLDL) cholesterol (VAIRee-loh-DEN-sih-tee) (LIP-ohPROH-teen) (koh-LESS-tur-ol): 

see VLDL cholesterol. 

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 humor (VIT-ree-uhss) 

(HYOO-mur): the clear gel that 

lies behind the eye’s lens and in 

front of the retina. 

VLDL cholesterol (VEE-ELDEE-EL) (koh-LESS-tur-ol): 

stands for very-low-density 

lipoprotein cholesterol. A form 

of cholesterol in the blood. 

High levels may be related to 

cardiovascular disease. 

void (voyd): to urinate; to empty 

the bladder. 

55
 
W–X
 wound care: steps taken to ensure a 

wound such as a foot ulcer heals 

correctly. People with diabetes 

need to take special precautions 

so wounds do not become 

infected. 

xylitol (ZY-lih-tol): a carbohydratebased sweetener found in plants 

and used as a substitute for 

sugar; provides calories. Found 

in some mints and chewing gum. 

56
 
Notes
 

57
 
Notes
 

58
 
 

 

 

 

National Diabetes 

Information Clearinghouse 

1 Information Way
 

Bethesda, MD 20892–3560
 

Phone: 1–800–860–8747
 

TTY: 1–866–569–1162
 

Fax: 703–738–4929
 

Email: ndic@info.niddk.nih.gov
 

Internet: www.diabetes.niddk.nih.gov
 

The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC) is a service 

of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases 

(NIDDK). The NIDDK is part of the National Institutes of Health 

of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Established 

in 1978, the Clearinghouse provides information about diabetes to 

people with diabetes and to their families, health care professionals, 

and the public. The NDIC answers inquiries, develops and distributes 

publications, and works closely with professional and patient 

organizations and Government agencies to coordinate resources about 

diabetes. 

Publications produced by the Clearinghouse are carefully reviewed by 

both NIDDK scientists and outside experts. 

This publication is not copyrighted. The Clearinghouse encourages 

users of this publication to duplicate and distribute as many copies as 

desired. 

This publication is available at www.diabetes.niddk.nih.gov.

This publication may contain information about medications. When 

prepared, this publication included the most current information available. 

For updates or for questions about any medications, contact the U.S. Food 

and Drug Administration toll-free at 1–888–INFO–FDA (1–888–463–6332) 

or visit www.fda.gov. Consult your doctor for more information. 
U.S. DEPArTMENT OF HEALTH 

AND HUMAN SErvICES 

National Institutes of Health 

National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse 

NIH Publication No. 10–3016 

December 2009