Useful information to keep and share.

The amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood at a given moment. It is the body’s main fuel and is also called blood sugar.

A nutrient found in starchy foods, fruit, milk and sugars. It has the biggest effect on blood glucose after meals.

A small wearable sensor that measures glucose every few minutes and shows trends and alerts.

A serious emergency, most often in Type 1 diabetes, when the body lacks insulin and produces high levels of ketones. Signs include vomiting, deep fast breathing, abdominal pain and confusion. Seek emergency help.

A blood-test estimate of how well the kidneys are filtering. It is used for routine kidney checks.

Diabetes first noticed during pregnancy. It often settles after birth but needs follow-up.

A blood test showing average blood glucose over roughly two to three months. Targets are personal.

High blood glucose. Common signs include thirst, frequent urination and tiredness.

Low blood glucose. Signs can include shakiness, sweating, hunger, confusion and headache. Know the plan your care team has given you.

A hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose move from the blood into cells. Some people need to take insulin.

When the body does not respond well to insulin, common in Type 2 diabetes.

Nerve damage that can cause numbness, tingling or pain, often in the feet.

Blood glucose higher than usual but not yet in the diabetes range.

Damage to the small blood vessels at the back of the eye. Regular eye screening can detect it early.

The share of time a person’s glucose stays within their target range, usually measured with a CGM.

A condition in which the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells, so insulin must be taken.

The most common type, in which the body becomes resistant to insulin and may not make enough.