Diabetes Mellitus is a disease that is becoming increasingly common in the world, with more than 425 million individuals affected globally.

It is a chronic metabolic condition where the body is unable to convert food into energy correctly, resulting in high blood sugar levels. The disease occurs when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin or fails to utilize it effectively, causing various complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and blindness.

Diabetes Mellitus is debilitating, and if left untreated, it can cause extensive damage to vital organs such as the kidneys, heart, eyes, and nerves, leading to life-threatening complications.

Types of Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes Mellitus is divided into two broad categories.

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus is also known as Juvenile Diabetes or Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM). It typically occurs in children and young adults, and it is characterized by a lack of insulin production by the pancreas.

Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus require daily administered insulin injections to sustain their blood sugar levels.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is the most common form of diabetes mellitus. It constitutes about 90% of all diabetic cases.

It occurs when the body cells are unable to use insulin correctly, leading to insulin resistance, and the pancreas produces insufficient amounts of insulin.

Complications of Diabetes Mellitus

The lack of proper management of Diabetes Mellitus can lead to the development of several complications, some of which include:.

Cardiovascular Diseases

Individuals with diabetes Mellitus are at higher risks of developing heart disease. It occurs as high levels of glucose in the bloodstream affect the blood vessels’ walls, leading to blockages and narrowed arteries.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a condition where the nerves fail to communicate correctly with the brain and other parts of the body accurately. It occurs when high sugar levels damage the blood vessels that supply the nerves with essential nutrients.

Symptoms of neuropathy include tingling and numbness on limbs, muscles weakness, and pain.

Blindness

Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can also lead to eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood glucose levels damage the blood vessels located at the back of the eye.

Renal Failure

Individuals with Diabetes Mellitus are at a higher risk of developing kidney disease compared to individuals without the disease. High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels of the kidney and compromise their ability to filter blood correctly.

This, in turn, causes excess proteins to be excreted through urine.

Prevention and Management of Diabetes Mellitus

The good news is that Diabetes Mellitus can be managed effectively with the proper medical guidance and attention. The following tips can help prevent the onset of the disease and manage existing cases.

Adopt a Healthy Diet

Individuals with diabetes Mellitus should adopt a healthy diet providing a balanced intake of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Carbohydrates should be limited to reduce blood sugar spikes.

Regular Exercise

Regular physical activity can help increase insulin sensitivity, reduces blood glucose levels, and promote overall health. Individuals with diabetes Mellitus are encouraged to exercise at least 150 minutes every week.

Regular Doctor Check-ups

Individuals with diabetes Mellitus should undergo regular medical checkups to monitor their blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.

This will help identify early warning signs for any complications and prevent them from developing further.

Regular Medication

Individuals with diabetes Mellitus must adhere to their medication regimen. Insulin should be administered as prescribed or as advised by the doctor.

Other medications such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and anti-clotting agents should also be taken as prescribed.

Conclusion

Diabetes Mellitus is a debilitating condition that affects millions of individuals in the world. The lack of proper management and control can lead to life-threatening complications.

By adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adhering to medical treatment regimens, individuals with diabetes Mellitus can lead healthy and productive lives.