Glossary
Hyperglycemia - High a level of glucose in the blood; a sign that diabetes is out of control. Many things can cause hyperglycemia. It occurs when the body does not have enough insulin or cannot use the insulin it does have to turn glucose into energy. Signs of hyperglycemia are great thirst, a dry mouth, and a need to urinate often. For people with insulin-dependent diabetes, hyperglycemia may lead to diabetic ketoacidosis.Hyperosmolar Coma - A coma (loss of consciousness) related to high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood and requiring emergency treatment. A person with this condition is usually older and weak from loss of body fluids and weight. The person may or may not have a previous history of diabetes. Ketones (acids) are not present in the urine.
Insulin - A hormone by the Pancreas. Insulin promotes glucose/sugar utilization and protein synthesis.
Pancreas - This is an elongated lobular shaped organ found in the abdomen starting from the first part of the small intestine.
Metabolism - A bio-chemical process through which energy consumption and energy production is carried out in cells.
Ketones - The end products of fat metabolism.
