Introduction to Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by an impairment in how the body processes digested food. This occurs due to the pancreas’ inability to produce an adequate amount of insulin, in addition to reduced effectiveness of insulin action.
As a result, metabolic disturbances occur, the most prominent of which is elevated blood glucose levels. When blood sugar rises above a certain threshold, the kidneys are no longer able to retain it, and glucose appears in the urine.
Therefore, persistent elevation of blood glucose is the hallmark of diabetes. If this condition continues without proper control, it damages blood vessels and leads to complications affecting the retina, kidneys, nerves, and peripheral circulation. Numerous studies have clearly shown that good glycemic control prevents or significantly reduces these complications.
Types of Diabetes Mellitus
1. Type 1 Diabetes
This type mainly affects children and young individuals. It has a rapid onset with clear symptoms such as:
- Frequent urination
- Bedwetting
- Excessive thirst
- Weight loss
- Fatigue and general weakness
- Sometimes abdominal pain as an early sign
This type requires immediate insulin therapy without hesitation. Delaying treatment may expose the patient—especially children—to serious complications.
The cause is damage to pancreatic beta cells that produce insulin. This damage may occur due to viral infections or certain chemical agents. The immune system then produces antibodies against pancreatic cells, leading to progressive destruction of insulin-producing cells.
2. Type 2 Diabetes
This is the most common type and usually affects adults, often over the age of 40. It is frequently associated with other conditions such as:
- Obesity
- Hypertension
- High blood lipids
These conditions increase the risk of atherosclerosis.
The cause is mainly reduced effectiveness of insulin due to obesity, physical inactivity, or certain medications. Symptoms are often mild or absent, which may delay diagnosis.
For early detection, regular blood glucose testing is recommended every 1–3 years, especially in the following cases:
- Age above 40
- Family history of diabetes
- Obesity, hypertension, high lipids, or gout
- History of gestational diabetes or delivery of large babies
Symptoms of Diabetes
- Excessive thirst
- Increased hunger
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Vaginal infections in females
It is important to note that the presence of these symptoms suggests high blood glucose levels, but the absence of symptoms does not rule out diabetes. Blood sugar may be elevated without any noticeable signs.
Therefore, every patient should have a reliable method to monitor blood glucose levels or at least perform urine glucose testing regularly.