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No Longer Living the Sweet Life

Losing Control of Diabetes

By Noura Farih, Lauren T. Lund, Sara E. Morgan, Johnny M. Turner, Breanna N. Harris

No Longer Living the Sweet Life


 

Abstract

In this interrupted case study, students will help “Dr. Gupta” investigate and assess complications arising in one of her long-term patients, “Jorge Alvarez.” Jorge was diagnosed with Type II diabetes mellitus ten years ago as documented in “Living the Sweet Life,” an optional prequel case study also in the NCCSTS collection. Jorge has been working with Dr. Gupta to manage his condition, but this year he has come under additional stress, both emotionally and financially, and his health has deteriorated. Jorge now presents with several new signs and symptoms, including numbness, tingling and burning sensations, and a foot sore that just won’t heal. Students will review the nervous system and assess Jorge’s symptoms, vitals, and blood tests to determine if his diabetes has worsened. Students will also learn about tests used to diagnose types of neuropathy and consider which of them would be most beneficial for Jorge. In addition to a non-majors anatomy and physiology course, this case study may be appropriate for an introductory biology, nutrition/dietetics, or a sensory and perception course.

   

Date Posted

10/06/2018

Overview

Objectives

  • Compare and contrast signs and symptoms of controlled and uncontrolled Type II diabetes mellitus.
  • Define and explain diabetic peripheral neuropathy and the physiological effects it can cause.
  • Compare the utility of common neurological tests, including various nerve function tests, imaging tests, biopsies, and blood tests.

Keywords

TIIDM; diabetes; neuropathy; nervous system; tingling; blood sugar; glucose; neurons;

  

Subject Headings

Biology (General)
Epidemiology
Medicine (General)
Nursing
Nutrition
Physiology
Public Health
Science (General)

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Interrupted

 

 

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