What Is Diabetes Mellitus?

Understanding Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus, commonly referred to as diabetes, is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by chronic hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. This condition can lead to long-term damage and dysfunction of various organs, particularly the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels 1  4 .

Types of Diabetes Mellitus

There are three primary types of diabetes mellitus:

• Type 1 Diabetes: This form accounts for about 10% of diabetes cases. It occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, individuals with type 1 diabetes produce little to no insulin and require daily insulin injections for survival. It is often diagnosed in children and young adults but can occur at any age 2  3 4 .

• Type 2 Diabetes: The most prevalent form of diabetes, type 2 diabetes results from the body's inability to use insulin effectively (insulin resistance) or insufficient insulin production. This type is increasingly common due to rising obesity rates among adults and children. Symptoms may develop slowly over time, and many individuals may be unaware they have the condition until complications arise 2 3  4 .

• Gestational Diabetes: This type occurs during pregnancy in women who did not have diabetes prior to becoming pregnant. It typically resolves after childbirth but increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life for both the mother and child 3 4 .

Symptoms of Diabetes

Common symptoms associated with diabetes include:

• Increased thirst (polydipsia)
• Frequent urination (polyuria)
• Increased hunger (polyphagia)
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Tingling or numbness in extremities

In severe cases, particularly with type 1 diabetes, individuals may experience diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a life-threatening condition characterized by high levels of ketones in the blood due to fat breakdown for energy 2  3 4 .

Causes and Risk Factors

The causes of diabetes vary by type:

• Type 1 Diabetes: The exact cause is not fully understood but involves genetic and environmental factors that trigger an autoimmune response against insulin-producing cells 2 4 .

• Type 2 Diabetes: Risk factors include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, family history of diabetes, age (especially over 45), and certain ethnic backgrounds. Insulin resistance is often exacerbated by excess weight and physical inactivity 5  7 .

Diagnosis

Diabetes can be diagnosed using several tests that measure blood glucose levels:

• Fasting Blood Glucose Test: Measures blood sugar after fasting for at least eight hours.

• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: Assesses blood sugar before and after consuming a sugary drink.

• Hemoglobin A1c Test: Provides an average blood glucose level over the past two to three months 3   6 .

Complications

If left untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can lead to serious complications, including:

• Cardiovascular diseases
• Kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy)
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Eye damage (diabetic retinopathy)
• Increased risk of infections and slow healing wounds 4 9 .

Management and Treatment

Effective management of diabetes involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions:

• Dietary Modifications: A balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help regulate blood sugar levels.

• Physical Activity: Regular exercise aids in weight management and improves insulin sensitivity.

• Medications: Type 1 diabetes requires insulin therapy. Type 2 may be managed with oral medications such as metformin or insulin if necessary.

• Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels: Regular monitoring helps maintain target glucose levels and prevent complications 6 8 .

Conclusion

Diabetes mellitus is a complex condition that requires ongoing management to prevent serious health issues. Understanding its types, symptoms, causes, and treatment options is crucial for effective control and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Early diagnosis and proactive management can significantly improve quality of life for those affected by this chronic disease.