It's hard to believe that February, 2022 is almost over. With the 2022 Olympics, COVID restrictions and the demonstrations in our nation's capital, I have watched and listened to a lot of news. I am always in awe of the Olympians who work so hard to reach their goal(s), but as individuals with diabetes, we do the same. Excellence is not always possible, and just like them we have good and bad days.
Today's picture is the second puzzle we have done in the past couple of weeks. The title "Nevertheless, She Persisted" is of some notable women from the last 150 years. Again, the theme of persistence for us with diabetes.
Were you satisfied with your quiz results? Was there a topic you felt you needed more information from your health-care team? Is there a topic you want to suggest for discussion in this blog?
1)Type 1 diabetes is a disease of complete insulin deficiency
True - the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans of the pancreas are not producing any insulin. Type 1 usually occurs at earlier ages and there is only one method of treatment and that of course is insulin.
2)Insulin resistance is one of the causes of Type 11 diabetes
True- The body's cells start to resist the effects of insulin. Because of this, glucose cannot enter into the cells and this leads to the buildup of glucose in the blood. The exact reason for insulin resistance it not really known, however, some contributing factors include being overweight (especially around the waist), inactivity, or a family history of type 2 diabetes.
3)The pancreas and the stomach are responsible for making insulin
False -the stomach plays no part in the production of insulin
4)Diabetes may develop if you are pregnant
True- this is referred to as gestational diabetes. It is a condition in which the woman without diabetes develops high blood sugar levels during her pregnancy. Often the symptoms are not obvious and it is found by routine check-up during the pregnancy time. Careful monitoring through pregnancy is warranted and even though the diabetes may disappear after the baby is born, it can cause the mother to be at a higher risk of developing diabetes later on in life. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and activity program are important.
5)A blood glucose reading of 15 mmol/l for 10 consecutive days may result in a condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis
True- Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication of diabetes and can be life-threatening. It occurs more frequently in people with Type 1 diabetes but Type 11 may also experience this complication. DKA occurs when the body doesn't have enough insulin to allow blood sugar into your cells to use as energy. This leads to the body producing high levels of blood acids called ketones. These ketones are a result of the body breaking down fat to be used as fuel. The symptoms can develop quickly such as excessive thirst, nausea, vomiting, fruity-scented breath, confusion and others. Go the Emergency room of your nearest hospital as soon as possible or call 911. Immediate attention is required.
6)Some people are able to take insulin by mouth
False- insulin cannot be taken by mouth. Oral insulin would be destroyed in the stomach, long before it could enter the bloodstream where it is needed.
7)When a person is hypoglycemic (low blood sugar), they need to take insulin
False- a person who has low blood sugar needs a fast acting form of carbohydrate (sugar) to raise the blood glucose level.
8)Eating plans should be individualized for each person with diabetes
True- every individual who is diagnosed with any type of diabetes should receive a dietary consult. Every person's needs are different so the same eating plan for all individuals would not be effective or good care by your health-care team.
9)Some people with long term diabetes may require an amputation
True- diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputation in Canadian adults (as per Diabetes Canada). Compared to non-diabetic individuals the adults with diabetes are over 20 times more likely to undergo non-traumatic lower limb amputations. Contributing factors may include: poor blood circulation, long term high blood glucose levels, smoking, a foot sore ot infection that doesn't get treated properly are just a few. When you see your diabetes health-care team be sure a foot exam is being done and at any sign of sores, have a professional check it out.
10)A sick day plan is important when you have diabetes
True- as you know any sickness can play havoc with your diabetes management. Depending on the degree of unwellness, you may need help and having a plan outlined will help them to help you during this period.
11)The blog on Double D's- the D's stood for diabetes and driving
False- it stood for diabetes and dizziness.
12)Hypoglycemia could be mistaken for alcohol intoxication
True- both share similar symptoms such as drowsiness, a loss of coordination such as stumbling or swaying, damp or clammy skin, personality changes are just a few.
13)Type 11 diabetes has many options for management including oral medications, eating plan, exercise and insulin
True- many options are available and many of them can be combined to help control the disease. It is important to adhere to the medication regimen prescribed by your professionals. And don't stop taking your medication because of side effects. Always ask for professional advice before taking action on your own.
14)Canada recently celebrated 100 years since the discovery of Insulin by Banting & Best
True- Diabetes Canada celebrated this event throughout 2021.
15)Diabetes Canada has many educational resources for both patients and professionals
True- Diabetes Canada has many types of resources for patients and professional to use. Check them out at this link.
Total value 150 points. Pass: ~70% (10 correct answers)
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Stay safe and well. Thank you for your time.
Remember this blog is not meant to replace advice you receive from your professional health-care team. It is for information purposes only.