UNDERSTANDING DIABETES MELLITUS



Linked below is a brief video from the UK Diabetes Team that will succintly give a concise teaching before we proceed to outline in more detail our understanding of Diabetes Mellitus.


 

1. What is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a condition where the body cannot properly control blood sugar (glucose) levels. Glucose gives your body energy, but when it builds up in the blood, it can cause health problems over time. This happens when the body doesn’t make enough insulin, can’t use insulin properly, or both. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose enter the body’s cells.




2. Types of Diabetes Mellitus

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM)

  • The immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that make insulin.
  • The body produces little or no insulin.
  • It usually begins in children or young adults but can occur at any age.
  • People with Type 1 diabetes need daily insulin injections to control blood sugar.

    • Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)

  • The body still makes insulin but cannot use it properly; this is called insulin resistance.
  • It is the most common type of diabetes, usually found in adults but is also seen in children and teens.
  • It can often be managed with healthy eating, physical activity, oral medications and sometimes insulin.


    • 3. How Diabetes Mellitus Affects the Body

    When your blood sugar stays high for a long time, it can damage vital organs and cause serious health problems such as:

  • Heart disease
  • Kidney problems
  • Nerve damage (tingling or numbness in hands and feet)
  • Eye problems and vision loss
  • Poor blood flow that can lead to slow-healing wounds.

    • Early symptoms may include:

  • Frequent urination
  • Increased thirst
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Feeling very tired


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