Diabetes mellitus

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 which can lead to blindness, nerve damage which can lead to erectile dysfunction (impotence), gangrene with risk of amputation of toes, feet, and even legs. The more serious complications are all more common in those with poor glycemic control.

Related Topics:
Hyperglycemia - Blood sugar - Symptom - Dehydration - Ketoacidosis - Cardiovascular disease - Chronic renal failure - Dialysis - Retinal damage - Blindness - Nerve damage - Erectile dysfunction - Gangrene - Amputation - Glycemic control

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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.

Related Topics:
Insulin - Decreased sensitivity

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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 cholesterol levels, maintaining a stable body weight, controlling high blood pressure and engaging in regular exercise.

Related Topics:
Blood sugar - Smoking - Cholesterol - Body weight - High blood pressure - Exercise

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