vision loss in many cases. The second technique, vitrectomy, involves surgical removal of cloudy eye fluids that result from blood vessel hemorrhage. This procedure offers hope to people with severely impaired vision resulting from this form of diabetic retinopathy. Scientists continue to explore better use of these techniques as well as the basic causes of eye damage resulting from diabetes. 5. Complications of Pregnancy. Diabetic women run a greater risk of having babies who are stillborn, die in infancy, and suffer from congenital defects than do non-diabetics. It is not uncommon for infants of diabetic mothers to be larger than normal at birth if maternal blood glucose level is elevated. In fact, this is sometimes a warning sign of diabetes in a woman who has not yet been diagnosed with the disorder. Strict attention to control of diabetes is essential during pregnancy to help reduce risks to both mother and baby. Diabetic emergencies which require prompt medical attention include hypoglycemia and ketoacidosis. Hypoglycemia, also called "insulin reaction" or "insulin shock" can occur if the blood sugar level of the person with diabetes falls too low. This results from too much insulin in the system caused by too large a dose of insulin, overly strenuous exercise, or failure to eat shortly after insulin is taken. Although each person may react differently, common symptoms of insulin reaction include trembling, sweating and nervousness. Some persons with diabetes may experience hunger, headache, nausea, drowsiness, or symptoms similar to inebriation. In severe cases of insulin shock, the person with diabetes may even become unconscious. A careful blend of correct amounts of insulin, exercise and food can usually prevent insulin reaction. When hypoglycemia does occur, however, most people with diabetes sense early warning signals and eat or drink something sweet to raise the amount of sugar in the blood. If a person is unconscious, an...
