Summary about Disease
Diabetes mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. This occurs either because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin (Type 1), or because the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces (Type 2), or a combination of both. Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy. Prolonged high blood sugar can lead to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of diabetes include:
Frequent urination, especially at night (polyuria)
Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
Unexplained weight loss
Increased hunger (polyphagia)
Blurred vision
Slow-healing sores
Frequent infections
Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
Fatigue
Causes
Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune reaction destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Genetic predisposition and environmental factors are believed to play a role.
Type 2 Diabetes: Insulin resistance (cells don't respond properly to insulin) combined with insufficient insulin production by the pancreas to overcome the resistance. Risk factors include obesity, inactivity, family history, and age.
Gestational Diabetes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to insulin resistance.
Other Causes: Certain genetic syndromes, medications, and medical conditions can also cause diabetes.
Medicine Used
Type 1 Diabetes: Insulin therapy is essential. This can be delivered through injections or an insulin pump.
Type 2 Diabetes: Medications may include:
Metformin (increases insulin sensitivity and decreases glucose production in the liver)
Sulfonylureas (stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin)
DPP-4 inhibitors (increase insulin release and decrease glucagon secretion)
GLP-1 receptor agonists (increase insulin release, decrease glucagon secretion, and slow gastric emptying)
SGLT2 inhibitors (increase glucose excretion in the urine)
Insulin (may be needed if other medications are not sufficient)
Gestational Diabetes: Initially managed with diet and exercise. If these are insufficient, insulin or other medications may be prescribed.
Is Communicable
Diabetes is not a communicable disease. It cannot be spread from person to person through contact, air, or any other means of transmission.
Precautions
Healthy Diet: Follow a balanced diet that is low in processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regularly monitor blood glucose levels as directed by a healthcare provider.
Medication Adherence: Take prescribed medications as directed.
Foot Care: Inspect feet daily for sores, cuts, or blisters.
Regular Checkups: Schedule regular checkups with a doctor and eye doctor.
Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques.
Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, quit.
How long does an outbreak last?
Diabetes is a chronic condition, not an acute outbreak. Once diagnosed, it requires ongoing management. While blood sugar levels may fluctuate, the underlying condition persists.
How is it diagnosed?
Diabetes is typically diagnosed through blood tests, including:
Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) Test: Measures blood glucose after an overnight fast. A level of 126 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures blood glucose levels two hours after drinking a sugary drink. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher indicates diabetes.
A1C Test: Measures average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. An A1C of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes.
Random Plasma Glucose Test: A blood sugar level of 200 mg/dL or higher, along with symptoms of diabetes, can indicate diabetes.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset and progression of diabetes symptoms can vary.
Type 1 Diabetes: Symptoms often develop rapidly, over a period of weeks or months.
Type 2 Diabetes: Symptoms may develop gradually over years, and some people may not experience any noticeable symptoms for a long time.
Gestational Diabetes: Typically develops during the second or third trimester of pregnancy.
Important Considerations
Complications: Diabetes can lead to serious complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), eye damage (retinopathy), and foot problems.
Management is Key: Effective management of blood sugar levels can significantly reduce the risk of complications.
Education: Diabetes education programs can help individuals learn how to manage their condition effectively.
Individualized Care: Treatment plans should be individualized to meet the specific needs of each person.
Mental Health: Diabetes can affect mental health. Seeking support from healthcare professionals is important.