Diabetes Mellitus, commonly referred to as diabetes, is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia). This condition arises due to either insufficient insulin production by the pancreas or ineffective use of insulin by the body’s cells. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels and facilitating glucose uptake into cells for energy.

Types of Diabetes: There are several types of diabetes, with the main ones being:

• Type 1 Diabetes: Results from the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to insulin deficiency.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Develops due to insulin resistance, where cells fail to respond effectively to insulin, combined with inadequate insulin production.
• Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy when hormonal changes impair insulin action, potentially affecting both mother and baby’s health.

Symptoms and Diagnosis: Common symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests such as fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and HbA1c measurement, which provides an average blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months.

Management and Treatment: Effective management of diabetes aims to maintain blood glucose levels within a target range to prevent complications. Treatment strategies include:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management.
• Medications: Insulin therapy (for type 1 and sometimes type 2 diabetes), oral medications to improve insulin sensitivity or stimulate insulin production.
• Monitoring and Education: Regular blood sugar monitoring, diabetes education on self-management, and awareness of signs of complications.

Complications: Poorly managed diabetes can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy (nerve damage), nephropathy (kidney disease), retinopathy (eye damage), and foot problems.

Understanding diabetes, its types, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for effective management and improving quality of life for individuals living with this chronic condition.