Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus (MEL-ih-tus), often referred to as diabetes, is characterized by high blood glucose (sugar) levels that result from the body’s inability to produce enough insulin and/or effectively utilize the insulin. Diabetes is a serious, life-long condition and the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Diabetes is a disorder of metabolism (the body's way of digesting food and converting it into energy). There are three forms of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that accounts for five- to 10-percent of all diagnosed cases of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes may account for 90- to 95-percent of all diagnosed cases. The third type of diabetes occurs in pregnancy and is referred to as gestational diabetes. Left untreated, gestational diabetes can cause health issues for pregnant women and their babies. People with diabetes can take preventive steps to control this disease and decrease the risk of further complications.
Recently Answered
- Q What are some side effects of taking meglitinide medication for diabetes?
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Like any medication, if you are taking meglitinides for type 2 diabetes, you may experience some side effects. Meglitinides can also cause back pain, joint pain, cough, a stuffy nose and diarrhea. Less often, they cause constipation and feelings... Full Answer
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- Q Can meglitinides cause low blood sugar if I have diabetes?
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Meglitinides are prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes and have the effect of lowering blood glucose levels. Although meglitinides don’t cause hypoglycemia by itself, if combined with other medications, vigorous exercise or too little... Full Answer
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- Q It is safe to become pregnant if I am taking glitazone for my diabetes?
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Glitazone is used to treat people with type 2 diabetes. If you plan to become pregnant and are taking glitazone, talk to your doctor first. Glitazones usually aren’t used during pregnancy. Your doctor will work with you to find other ways... Full Answer
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- Q How should I take glitazone if I have diabetes?
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Diabetes is a serious condition, and you should always follow your doctor’s specific instructions for taking any medication, including glitazone. But there are some specific rules that will apply to you if you are taking glitazone: If you... Full Answer
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- Q What are the risks of taking glitazones for diabetes?
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There are risks in taking glitazones in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Glitazones have been associated with increased risk for some serious conditions. These include: Liver damage. To check for liver damage, your doctor will give you... Full Answer
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- Q What are glitazone medications?
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Glitazone medications -- sometimes called thiazolidinediones -- are used to treat type 2 diabetes. A common glitazone medication is pioglitazone (Actos). Glitazones work by lowering your blood glucose (blood sugar) if you have type 2 diabetes.... Full Answer
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- Q Can glitazone cause low blood sugar if I have type 2 diabetes?
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Glitazone is prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes and has the effect of lowering blood glucose levels. Although glitazone doesn’t cause hypoglycemia by itself, if combined with other medications, vigorous exercise or too little food,... Full Answer
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- Q What should I do if I forget to take my glitazone medication?
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If you forget to take your glitazone medication for your type 2 diabetes, then don't panic! Just follow these steps: For once-a-day dosing: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it’s almost time for the next day’s dose,... Full Answer
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- Q What are some of the side effects of taking glitazone for diabetes?
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Like any medication, if you are taking glitazone for type 2 diabetes, you may experience some side effects. Common side effects from glitazones include weight gain and fluid buildup in the legs and eyes. Less common side effects are sinus and... Full Answer
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- Q Can sulfonylureas cause low blood sugar in type 2 diabetes patients?
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Sulfonylureas are prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes and have the effect of lowering blood glucose levels. Although sulfonylureas don't actually cause hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) by themselves, if combined with other medications,... Full Answer
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