Cardiovascular System: The system of blood vessels, veins
and arteries that deliver blood to all the tissues and organs
in the body, including the heart and brain. The bloodstream
carries nutrients (such as glucose) and oxygen to the cells and
removes waste products.
Cholesterol: A type of fat that occurs naturally in human
bodies and is also found in animal fats. Abnormal levels of
cholesterol are risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Continuous Glucose Monitor: A blood glucose monitor
with a small sensor that is inserted under the skin. This monitor
automatically checks blood glucose levels every few minutes.
Dehydration: A state in which there is the loss of too much
water from body tissues. It can occur when blood glucose
levels are high for long periods of time. It can also result
from not drinking enough water, or from too much sweating,
vomiting or diarrhea. Symptoms can include extreme thirst,
irritability, confusion, nausea, exhaustion and flushed, dry skin.
Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT): A
nine-year study conducted during the 1990s designed to test
whether persistently high blood glucose levels were related
to the development of complications in people with type 1
diabetes. The results demonstrated that intensive treatment
to achieve tight blood glucose targets delayed the onset and
progression of long-term complications of diabetes.
Diabetes Educator: A health care professional trained to teach
patients about diabetes and how to make adjustments to diabetes
treatments. They may also be trained as a nurse, dietitian,
pharmacist, psychologist or other health care professional.
Diabetes (also referred to as Diabetes Mellitus): A
disease in which the body either cannot produce insulin or
cannot properly use the insulin it produces. This situation
leads to high levels of glucose in the blood, which can damage
organs, blood vessels and nerves.
Dietitian: A health care professional who teaches and advises
people about the kinds and amounts of foods that promote
good health in the treatment of disease.
Erectile Dysfunction: The inability to develop or maintain an
erection of the penis. Diabetes is a common cause of
erectile dysfunction.
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