Insulin is a hormone made by the beta cells of the pancreas in the islets of Langerhans. Normally insulin is released continually into the bloodstream in small amounts and increases release when food is eaten
Diabetes mellitus (DM), commonly known as diabetes, is a chronic multisystem disease of impaired glucose metabolism caused by abnormal insulin production and/or poor use of the available insulin
Normal Glucose & Insulin Metabolism
Cells break down glucose to make energy. Liver and muscle cells store excess glucose as glycogen. Blood glucose levels rise > insulin released from the pancreas > binds to glucose receptors in cell wall Blood glucose levels low > glucagon released from pancreas > liver releases glycogen (glucose)
Endogenous Insulin – insulin made inside the body
Dawn Phenomenon – hyperglycemia upon morning awakening
Exogenous Insulin – insulin from outside body
Somogyi Phenomenon – hyperglycemia occurring about 2 -3 a.m
Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or both. A stage between normal glucose homeostasis and diabetes. Blood glucose levels are elevated but not high enough to meet the diagnostic criteria for diabetes.
Asymptomatic, however, long-term damage to the body, especially the heart and blood vessels, may already be occurring
Placental hormones counteract insulin resulting in glucose intolerance during pregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes have a higher risk for cesarean delivery, and their babies have increased risk for perinatal death, birth injury, and neonatal complications. Most women with gestational diabetes have normal glucose levels within 6 weeks postpartum
Monitor for symptoms of diabetes
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