Diabetes mellitus is a medical disorder characterized by varying or persistent
hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar levels), especially after eating. All types of
diabetes mellitus share similar symptoms and complications at advanced stages.
Hyperglycemia itself can lead to dehydration and ketoacidosis. Longer-term
complications include cardiovascular disease (doubled risk), chronic renal failure
(it is the main cause for dialysis), retinal damage with eventual blindness, nerve
damage and eventual gangrene with risk of amputation of toes, feet, and even legs.
The most important forms of diabetes are due to decreased production of insulin
(diabetes mellitus type 1, the first recognized form), or decreased sensitivity of
body tissues to insulin (diabetes mellitus type 2, the more common form).
The former
requires insulin injections, while the latter is generally managed with oral
medication and only requires insulin if the tablets are ineffective.
Patient understanding and participation is vital as blood glucose levels change
continuously, while successfully keeping blood sugar within normal limits has been
compellingly shown to reduce or prevent development of some of the complications of
diabetes.
Other risk factors that can require addressing to reduce complications are:
cessation of smoking, optimizing choleste
rol levels, maintaining a stable body weight, controlling high blood
pressure and engaging in regular exercise.
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