Diabetes, often known as Diabetes mellitus (DM), is a chronic disease affecting millions globally. It is characterised by high blood sugar levels, which can be brought on by either a lack of the hormone insulin or by the body’s inefficient hormone utilisation. A thorough explanation of diabetes mellitus, including its causes, kinds, symptoms, and treatment options, is the goal of this page.
Diabetes Mellitus Variants
1. Type 1 Diabetes
The immune system of the body incorrectly targets and kills the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas in type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune illness. Because of this, no insulin is produced at all. Diabetes type 1 usually appears in infancy or adolescence and needs constant insulin administration.
2. Type 2 Diabetes
The majority of instances of diabetes are type 2, which is the most prevalent kind. Though it can happen at any age, it often develops in maturity. The body either doesn’t generate enough insulin or develops resistance to its effects in type 2 diabetes. Poor nutrition, obesity, and physical inactivity are among lifestyle choices that frequently lead to its development.
3. Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes emerges during pregnancy when the body’s insulin production is insufficient to satisfy the increasing demands. While it usually cures after childbirth, women who have gestational diabetes are more likely to acquire type 2 diabetes later in life.
Causes & Associated Risks
Depending on the variant, there are several causes of diabetes mellitus. Nevertheless, typical risk factors that raise the possibility of getting diabetes include:
- Genetics: The risk increases when the family history has records about diabetes.
- Lifestyle: Lack of activity might increase the risk of insulin resistance and weight gain.
- Obesity: Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
- Diet: A diet, heavy in sugar, saturated fats, and processed foods can raise the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Age: The chance of developing type 2 diabetes rises with age, especially beyond the age of 45.
Symptoms
- Unknown cause of weight loss
- Fatigue
- Frequent urination
- Wound healing takes time
- Blurred vision
- Infections
Diagnosis
Blood tests to detect fasting blood sugar levels, oral glucose tolerance tests, or HbA1c testing to examine long-term blood sugar management are generally used in the diagnosis.
Author: Achuth B S
Published & Updated
