Table of Contents
Introduction to Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, it is a chronic metabolic disorder that leads to high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. This condition happens when the body either does not produce enough insulin or fails to use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone that is made by the pancreas that helps glucose enter our cells for energy.
When insulin doesn’t work properly or is absent, glucose stays in the bloodstream instead of being used. This causes hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), and over time, can lead to serious complications like heart disease, kidney damage, nerve issues, and eye problems.
Etiology (Causes of Diabetes)
Diabetes mainly has two common types:
Type 1 Diabetes (Insulin-dependent)
- Usually begins in children or young adults.
- Caused by autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, which produce insulin.
- Insulin production is very low or absent.
- Patients are prone to ketosis (a serious complication where ketones build up in the body).
Type 2 Diabetes (Non-insulin dependent)
- More common in adults, especially after middle age.
- Caused by a combination of insulin resistance and reduced insulin secretion.
- It is Linked to obesity, sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, and genetics.
- In this Insulin is present but doesn’t work effectively.
Other rare forms include:
- Gestational diabetes (during pregnancy).
- Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY).
- Diabetes due to pancreatectomy, or endocrine disorders like Cushing’s syndrome.
Pathogenesis (How Diabetes Develops in the Body)
Diabetes causes several changes in the body due to persistent high blood glucose levels:
- Excess glucose undergoes nonenzymatic glycosylation, damaging blood vessels and organs.
- Accumulation of sorbitol in tissues leads to nerve damage.
- It causes narrowing of blood vessels, leading to complications like:
- Retinopathy (eye damage)
- Nephropathy (kidney damage)
- Neuropathy (nerve damage)
- Atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries)
The level of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is used to measure long-term blood sugar control. It reflects average blood glucose over 2–3 months.
Non-Pharmacological Management (Lifestyle Changes)
For both types of diabetes—especially Type 2—lifestyle changes play a key role in prevention and control:
- Healthy Diet
- Avoid sugary foods and refined carbs.
- Eat whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and fiber-rich food.
- Control portion sizes and maintain meal timing.
- Regular Physical Activity
- At least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily.
- Helps improve insulin sensitivity and promotes weight loss.
- Weight Management
- Reducing body fat helps in better insulin response.
- Stress Control and Sleep
- High stress levels can spike blood sugar.
- Good sleep supports hormone balance.
⚠ Disclaimer
The content provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any medication, especially for conditions like hypertension or asthma. Treatment decisions should be based on a doctor’s evaluation of your individual health status and medical history.
Pharmacological Treatment (Medications)
Type 1 Diabetes
- Requires lifelong insulin therapy.
- Types of insulin:
- Rapid-acting (Lispro, Aspart)
- Short-acting (Regular)
- Intermediate-acting (NPH)
- Long-acting (Glargine, Detemir, Degludec)
Treatment often involves:
- Basal-bolus regimen: Long-acting insulin for background + rapid insulin before meals.
- Insulin pens, pumps, and inhalers are now available for easier use.
Type 2 Diabetes
- May initially be managed with diet and exercise.
If not controlled, oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs) are prescribed:
Class | Example | Action |
Biguanides | Metformin | Reduces liver glucose production |
Sulfonylureas | Glimepiride, Gliclazide | Increases insulin secretion |
DPP-4 inhibitors | Sitagliptin, Vildagliptin | Boosts incretin hormones |
SGLT2 inhibitors | Dapagliflozin | Increases glucose loss in urine |
GLP-1 agonists | Exenatide, Liraglutide | Slows gastric emptying, reduces appetite |
Complications of Uncontrolled Diabetes
- Acute: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), hyperosmolar coma.
- Chronic: Heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, nerve pain, foot ulcers.
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) may occur with insulin or some oral drugs.
Monitoring and Prevention Tips
- Regularly monitor blood glucose (using glucometer).
- Check HbA1c every 3–6 months.
- Keep foot care and eye exams part of your routine.
- Join a diabetes education program or support group.
Conclusion
Diabetes is a manageable condition with the right awareness, regular monitoring, healthy habits, and appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and consistent care can help prevent serious complications and lead to a better quality of life.
Whether you’re a student, a health worker, or someone newly diagnosed—learning about diabetes can empower you to take control and live healthier every day.
External Resources 👉 :
- Wikipedia Diabetes
- Mayo Clinic – Diabetes Symptoms and Causes