Diabetes mellitus, commonly referred to as simply diabetes, is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of people with diabetes has risen from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014. Diabetes affects the way your body processes blood sugar (glucose), and if left untreated, can lead to serious health complications.

What is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is a condition where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use it effectively. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels.

When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, which enters your bloodstream. Insulin helps transport glucose from your bloodstream into your cells where it can be used for energy. With diabetes, glucose builds up in your bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Types of Diabetes

There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.

This type of diabetes typically develops in childhood or young adulthood and requires daily insulin injections.

Type 2 diabetes is the more common type of diabetes, accounting for 90% of all cases. With type 2 diabetes, the body still produces insulin, but it either doesn’t produce enough or the body’s cells become resistant to it.

Type 2 diabetes can often be managed with lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, but may also require medication or insulin therapy.

Symptoms of Diabetes

The symptoms of diabetes can vary depending on the type of diabetes and the severity of the disease. However, some common symptoms include:.

Increased thirst and urination
Unexplained weight loss
Blurred vision
Fatigue
Slow healing wounds and infections
Tingling or numbness in the feet or hands

Diagnosis of Diabetes

Diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests that measure the amount of glucose in your bloodstream. Your doctor may also perform an A1C test, which measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.

If two separate blood tests show elevated blood sugar levels, you will likely be diagnosed with diabetes.

Treatment for Diabetes

The main goals of diabetes treatment are to keep your blood sugar levels within a healthy range and prevent complications. This can be achieved through a combination of lifestyle changes and medication.

Lifestyle changes may include:.

Eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar and carbohydrates
Exercising regularly to improve blood sugar control
Maintaining a healthy weight
Avoiding unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Medications that may be prescribed for diabetes include:.

Metformin, a medication that helps lower blood sugar levels
Insulin therapy, which may include injections or an insulin pump
Other medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists or DPP-4 inhibitors

Possible Complications of Diabetes

If left untreated, diabetes can lead to a number of serious health complications:.

Heart disease and stroke
Kidney disease
Nerve damage (neuropathy)
Foot damage, including wounds that do not heal
Eye damage that can lead to blindness
Skin and mouth conditions such as bacterial and fungal infections

Prevention of Diabetes

While not all cases of diabetes can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:.

Eat a healthy diet that is low in sugar and carbohydrates
Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
Manage any other health conditions, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol

Conclusion

Diabetes is a serious chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there is no cure for diabetes, it can be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes and medication.

By maintaining healthy habits and managing your blood sugar levels, you can reduce your risk of developing complications and live a healthier life.