Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM), commonly referred to as diabetes, is a group of metabolic disorders in which there are high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period.^[7] Symptoms of high blood sugar include frequent urination, increased thirst, and increased hunger.^[2] If left untreated, diabetes can cause many complications.^[2] Acute complications can include diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, or death.^[3] Serious long-term complications include cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, foot ulcers, and damage to the eyes.^[2]

Diabetes is due to either the pancreas not producing enough insulin or the cells of the body not responding properly to the insulin produced.^[8]There are three main types of diabetes mellitus:^[2]

• Type 1 DM results from the pancreas's failure to produce enough insulin.^[2] This form was previously referred to as "insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus" (IDDM) or "juvenile diabetes".^[2] The cause is unknown.^[2]
• Type 2 DM begins with insulin resistance, a condition in which cells fail to respond to insulin properly.^[2] As the disease progresses a lack of insulin may also develop.^[9] This form was previously referred to as "non insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus" (NIDDM) or "adult-onset diabetes".^[2] The most common cause is excessive body weight and insufficient exercise.^[2]
• Gestational diabetes is the third main form, and occurs when pregnant women without a previous history of diabetes develop high blood sugar levels.^[2]

Prevention and treatment involve maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical exercise, a normal body weight, and avoiding use of tobacco.^[2]Control of blood pressure and maintaining proper foot care are important for people with the disease.^[2] Type 1 DM must be managed with insulin injections.^[2] Type 2 DM may be treated with medications with or without insulin.^[6] Insulin and some oral medications can cause low blood sugar.^[10] Weight loss surgery in those with obesity is sometimes an effective measure in those with type 2 DM.^[11] Gestational diabetes usually resolves after the birth of the baby.^[12]

Diabetes