Diabetic Complications Flashcards
(19 cards)
What are the risk factors for CVD?
Smoking, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, high lipids
These factors increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.
How can CVD risk in diabetic patients be reduced?
By using ACE inhibitors and lipid regulating drugs
These medications help manage blood pressure and lipid levels.
What should patients with diabetic nephropathy aim for regarding blood pressure?
To reduce blood pressure to the lowest achievable level
This helps slow down kidney decline and reduce proteinuria.
Which tests should be conducted for diabetic nephropathy?
Test for urinary proteins and serum creatinine
Microalbuminuria testing is done if these tests are negative.
What is the first line treatment for diabetic neuropathy?
Simple analgesia
This is the initial step in managing pain associated with diabetic neuropathy.
Name some medications used in diabetic neuropathy.
- Antidepressants (tricyclics like amitriptyline and imipramine)
- Duloxetine
- Venlafaxine
- Gabapentin
- Pregabalin
These medications can help alleviate neuropathic pain.
What should be monitored in people with diabetes?
Vision
Visual eye disease can occur as a complication of diabetes.
What are the signs and symptoms of DKA?
- Dehydration
- Weight loss
- Excessive tiredness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Deep breathing
- Abdominal pain
- Sweet smell to the breath
- Reduced consciousness
- Different odour to the urine
Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious condition requiring immediate attention.
What are the signs and symptoms of HHS?
- Dehydration
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Tachycardia
- Hypertension
- Acute cognitive impairment
- Shock in severe cases
Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State (HHS) can be life-threatening.
What should all patients undergoing surgery carry?
Emergency treatment for hypoglycemia written on the drug chart
This ensures quick response in case of low blood sugar during surgery.
How should insulin be managed the day before surgery?
Insulin should be given as normal, except the long-acting insulin dose should be reduced to 80% and continued
This helps manage blood glucose levels during fasting.
What should be done on the day of surgery regarding medications?
All other drugs should be stopped and the long-acting insulin at 80% should be continued until the patient is eating and drinking again
Insulin is crucial during surgical procedures.
What are the recommended diabetes medications during pregnancy?
- Metformin
- Insulin
These are the only medications allowed to manage diabetes during pregnancy.
What is the recommended HbA1c level during pregnancy?
Below 48
Maintaining this level reduces risks to both the mother and fetus.
What type of insulin is preferred during pregnancy and why?
Rapid acting insulins like Aspart and Lispro
They are preferred due to fewer episodes of hypoglycemia.
What should be done with ACE inhibitors and ARBs during pregnancy?
They should not be continued and replaced with Methyl Dopa or Labetalol
Statins should also be discontinued during pregnancy.
What is the first line treatment for gestational diabetes?
Diet and exercise alone
This is the initial approach before considering medication.
What is the second line treatment for gestational diabetes?
Metformin
This is used if lifestyle changes are ineffective.
What is the third line treatment for gestational diabetes?
Insulin should be added if metformin is ineffective
Insulin helps manage blood glucose levels effectively.