Diabetes Mellitus: A Study Guide

Definition

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels due to the body’s inability to produce or effectively use insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels.

Etiology

• Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin.
• Gestational Diabetes: A type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy.

Occurrence/Epidemiology

• Diabetes is a global health crisis, affecting millions of people worldwide.
• Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, especially in developed countries with high rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyles.
• Type 1 diabetes is less common but can occur at any age, with a higher prevalence in children and young adults.

Clinical Presentation

• Classic symptoms: Frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme hunger, weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds.
• In severe cases: Ketoacidosis (in type 1 diabetes) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (in type 2 diabetes) can occur, leading to serious complications.

Diagnostic Examination

• Blood sugar tests: Fasting blood sugar, random blood sugar, A1C test.
• Oral glucose tolerance test: For diagnosing gestational diabetes.
• Other tests: Urine tests for ketones, kidney function tests, and eye exams.

Differential Diagnosis

• Other conditions that can cause hyperglycemia, such as Cushing’s syndrome, pancreatitis, and certain medications.

Non-Pharmacological Management

• Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
• Weight management: For individuals with type 2 diabetes, maintaining a healthy weight can improve blood sugar control.
• Self-monitoring: Regularly monitoring blood sugar levels and adjusting medications as needed.

Pharmacological Management

• Insulin therapy: The primary treatment for type 1 diabetes and may also be used for type 2 diabetes.
• Oral medications: Used to treat type 2 diabetes, including metformin, sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, and DPP-4 inhibitors.

Follow-Up

• Regular visits to a healthcare provider for monitoring blood sugar levels, adjusting medications as needed, and checking for complications.
• Comprehensive eye exams to detect diabetic retinopathy.
• Kidney function tests to monitor for diabetic nephropathy.
• Foot exams to prevent diabetic foot ulcers.

Remember: This is a general overview of diabetes mellitus. Individual management plans will vary depending on the type of diabetes, severity, and other factors. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.