Diabetes mellitus

Definition

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels due to insufficient insulin production, impaired insulin action, or both. This condition affects the body's ability to convert food into energy, leading to various health complications if left unmanaged. It is classified mainly into two types: Type 1 diabetes, which is autoimmune in nature, and Type 2 diabetes, which is often related to lifestyle and obesity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Type 1 diabetes usually develops in childhood or adolescence and occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
2. Type 2 diabetes is more common and can often be managed with lifestyle changes, but may require medication or insulin therapy as it progresses.
3. Diabetes mellitus can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and eye problems if not controlled effectively.
4. The prevalence of diabetes has been increasing globally due to factors like obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and dietary habits.
5. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels and maintaining a healthy diet are crucial for managing diabetes and preventing complications.

Review Questions

• How do the mechanisms of insulin production differ between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
  • In Type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin being produced. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes typically involves insulin resistance, where cells do not respond effectively to insulin, combined with an eventual decline in insulin production. Understanding these mechanisms helps to tailor treatment strategies for each type of diabetes.
• What are the long-term complications associated with poorly managed diabetes mellitus, and how do they affect overall health?
  • Poorly managed diabetes can lead to long-term complications such as neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular disease. Neuropathy can cause pain and loss of sensation in extremities; retinopathy can lead to vision loss; nephropathy may result in kidney failure; and cardiovascular disease significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. These complications not only affect quality of life but also place a substantial burden on healthcare systems.
• Evaluate the impact of lifestyle changes on the management of Type 2 diabetes and discuss how these changes can alter disease progression.
  • Lifestyle changes such as improved diet, increased physical activity, and weight management play a crucial role in managing Type 2 diabetes. These changes can enhance insulin sensitivity and help control blood glucose levels, often leading to remission or reduced reliance on medications. By adopting a healthier lifestyle, individuals with Type 2 diabetes can slow disease progression and decrease the risk of developing serious complications, showcasing the importance of prevention strategies in chronic disease management.

Related terms

Insulin: A hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells.

Hyperglycemia: A condition characterized by an excess of glucose in the bloodstream, commonly associated with diabetes.

Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c): A form of hemoglobin that is measured to determine average blood glucose levels over a period of time, used to monitor diabetes management.