Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes is the common name for “Diabetes Mellitus”. It is a condition which causes increased blood sugar levels. This can result in a variety of problems, and in some cases can cause death. In the US diabetes affects around 17 million people, with estimates also suggesting that several million more have the condition but are unaware of it.

Diabetes can, over time, result in kidney damage, nerve damage, and blindness. It can also cause serious problems in both small and large blood vessels. Coronary heart disease and strokes are both possible results of the effects that diabetes has on the arteries. Diabetes is a chronic condition which means it is life-long, although it can be controlled. If untreated, diabetes can be fatal.

What is the cause of Diabetes ?

Usually blood glucose levels are controlled by a hormone called insulin produced by the pancreas. However, insulin production can either be low or absent in some people, or in others cells may lack the ability to properly use insulin, both of which result in diabetes.

The inability of cells to use insulin is known as insulin resistance, and is the primary factor in Type 2 diabetes. Usually cells use insulin to help them absorb glucose from the blood. However, if the cells cannot properly use insulin they are unable to absorb glucose. This leads to glucose being wasted through excretion of urine.

Symptoms of Diabetes

High amounts of glucose in urine lead to greater urine output than usual which causes sufferers to become dehydrated, causing thirst and consequently increased liquid consumption.

Poor insulin efficiency, whether due to insulin resistance or a lack of insulin production, leads to a loss of weight despite a growth in appetite. Fatigue is also a common symptom, as well as vomiting or nausea.