Diabetes
mellitus (DM), commonly referred to as diabetes, is a group of metabolic
diseases in which there are high blood sugar levels over a
prolonged period. Symptoms of high blood sugar include frequent urination,
increased thirst, and increased hunger. If left untreated, diabetes can cause
many complications. Acute complications can include diabetic
ketoacidosis, nonketotic hyperosmolar coma, or death. Serious
long-term complications include heart disease, stroke, chronic
kidney failure, foot ulcers, and damage to the eyes.
Diabetes is
due to either the pancreas not producing enough insulin or
the cells of the body not responding properly to the insulin produced.There are
three main types of diabetes mellitus:
Type 1 DM: results from the pancreas's failure to
produce enough insulin. This form was previously referred to as
"insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus" (IDDM) or "juvenile
diabetes". The cause is unknown.
Type 2 DM: begins with insulin resistance, a
condition in which cells fail to respond to insulin properly. As the
disease progresses a lack of insulin may also develop.This form was previously
referred to as "non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus" (NIDDM) or
"adult-onset diabetes". The most common cause is excessive body
weight and not enough exercise.
Gestational diabetes is the third main form and
occurs when pregnant women without a previous history of diabetes develop high
blood-sugar levels.
Prevention
and treatment involve maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical exercise, a
normal body weight, and avoiding use of tobacco. Control of blood pressure and
maintaining proper foot care are important for people with the disease. Type 1
DM must be managed with insulin injections. Type 2 DM may be treated with
medications with or without insulin. Insulin and some oral medications can
cause low blood sugar. Weight loss surgery in those with obesity is
sometimes an effective measure in those with type 2 DM. Gestational
diabetes usually resolves after the birth of baby.
(Resource: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diabetes_mellitus)
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