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Diabetes Mellitus

What is Diabetes Mellitus?

  • Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disease in which the body cannot properly control blood sugar (glucose) levels due to problems with insulin production or insulin action.
  • Leads to high blood glucose (hyperglycemia).
  • Can cause serious long-term complications.
  • One of the most common non-communicable diseases worldwide.

Types of Diabetes Mellitus
 

Type 1 Diabetes

  • Autoimmune condition
  • Body attacks insulin-producing cells
  • Little or no insulin produced
  • Usually develops in children or young adults

Type 2 Diabetes

  • Most common type
  • Body becomes resistant to insulin
  • Often associated with obesity and lifestyle factors
  • Gestational Diabetes
  • Occurs during pregnancy
  • Usually resolves after delivery
  • Increases risk of future Type 2 diabetes

Causes of Diabetes Mellitus

  • Genetics
  • Autoimmune destruction (Type 1)
  • Insulin resistance
  • Overweight/obesity
  • Physical inactivity
  • Hormonal changes during pregnancy

Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Increased hunger
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Unexplained weight loss (Type 1)

Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus

  • Fasting blood glucose test
  • HbA1c test
  • Oral glucose tolerance test
  • Random blood sugar test

Complications of Diabetes Mellitus

  • Short-term
    • Hypoglycemia
    • Hyperglycemia
    • Diabetic ketoacidosis (mainly Type 1)
  • Long-term
    • Heart disease and stroke
    • Kidney disease (nephropathy)
    • Nerve damage (neuropathy)
    • Eye damage (retinopathy)
    • Foot ulcers and amputations

Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus

  • Medications
    • Insulin therapy
    • Oral antidiabetic drugs
    • Non-insulin injectable medicines
  • Lifestyle Management
    • Healthy diet
    • Regular physical activity
    • Weight control
    • Blood sugar monitoring
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