Diabetes mellitus is a serious condition where individuals have high blood sugar levels. This is caused by the body’s inability to produce or respond to insulin. The three most common forms of diabetes mellitus are type 1, type 2, and gestational. All three types are dangerous and potentially life-threatening if not properly treated. Common symptoms include: excess thirst, hunger, blurry vision and frequent urination. Over an extended period of time, diabetes can cause blindness, kidney failure, and nerve and damage.
Diabetes mellitus type 1 is caused by the body’s inability to produce enough insulin. Insulin is the hormone that regulates the levels of glucose in blood and cells. Diabetes complicates the body’s natural ability to convert food into energy. Type 1 usually appears in children and young adults, and was once known as juvenile diabetes for this reason. Type 1 is treated with insulin injections through insulin therapy. Insulin is injected into the body with a syringe, pen or pump. Eating healthy meals, snacks and living an active lifestyle also help regulate type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus, also referred to as adult onset or non-insulin dependent diabetes, is the most common form of this condition found. This kind can develop at any age, but is most commonly found in adults. It is also genetic which means it can be seen within families. Type 2 occurs when the body resists insulin and uses it improperly. This kind of diabetes mellitus is usually caused by obesity and inactivity, although, some individuals with this condition are not overweight. Type 2 can be treated with proper diet and exercise. Many individuals are required to change their lifestyle and eating habits to help regulate their blood sugar levels. There are also oral medications that are available through prescription.
Gestational diabetes mellitus is similar to type 2 diabetes. Half of all women who experience gestational diabetes will develop type 2 diabetes later in life. If untreated, this condition can cause complications towards both the mother and the fetus. A woman who undergoes standard prenatal care will be screened for gestational diabetes between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy. Some of the risks towards the fetus include: high birth weight, fetal distress, and even death. Most cases of gestational diabetes can be managed by a healthy diet low in carbohydrates along with moderate exercise. Only 10% of women with gestational diabetes require insulin injections.
One can detect diabetes mellitus through simple medical tests. The most common tests used are the fasting plasma glucose test (FPG), the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and the random plasma glucose test. The FPG measures the amount of glucose in the blood of a person who has not eaten in at least eight hours. The OGTT measures the amount of glucose in the blood of a person who has not eaten for at least eight hours but has consumed a sugary beverage (Glucola) two hours previously. A random plasma glucose test measures blood glucose levels whether a person has eaten or not.
People who suffer from diabetes mellitus can live healthy and productive lives once the condition is diagnosed and treated. Even though severe risks and complications are involved, those with this disease are not alone. Advancements in medicine and awareness have allowed people with diabetes mellitus to live without fear of the unknown.