Diabetes Glossary
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W X
obesity
A condition in which a greater than normal amount of fat is in the body; more severe than overweight; having a body mass index of 30 or more.
obstetrician (ob-steh-TRIH-shun)
A doctor who treats pregnant women and delivers babies.
ophthalmologist (AHF-thal-MAH-luh-jist)
A medical doctor who diagnoses and treats all eye diseases and eye disorders. Opthalmologists can also prescribe glasses and contact lenses.
optician (ahp-TI-shun)
A health care professional who dispenses glasses and lenses. An optician also makes and fits contact lenses.
optometrist (ahp-TAH-meh-trist)
A primary eye care provider who prescribes glasses and contact lenses. Optometrists can diagnose and treat certain eye conditions and diseases.
oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)
A test to diagnose pre-diabetes and diabetes. The oral glucose tolerance test is given by a health care professional after an overnight fast. A blood sample is taken and then the patient drinks a high-glucose beverage. Blood samples are taken at intervals for 2 to 3 hours. Test results are compared with a standard and show how the body uses glucose over time.
oral hypoglycemic agents (hy-po-gly-SEE-mik)
Medicines taken by mouth by people with Type 2 diabetes to keep blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible. Classes of oral hypoglycemic agents are alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, biguanides, D-phenylalanine derivatives, meglitinides, sulfonylureas, and thiazolidinediones.
overweight
An above-normal body weight; having a body mass index of 25 to 29.9.
