Diabetes Management

Description

Diabetes mellitus is a group of diseases characterized by high blood glucose concentrations resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Insulin is a hormone produced by the beta-cells of the pancreas that is necessary for the use or storage of body fuels (carbohydrate, protein, and fat). Persons with diabetes do not produce adequate insulin; with insulin deficiency, hyperglycemia (elevated blood glucose) occurs. Types of diabetes mellitus are: Type 1, Type 2, Gestational diabetes mellitus and many more

Contributing Factors

1) Age

2) Genetics

3) Poor food habits

4) Sedentary Lifestyle

5) Pregnancy

6) Medications

Common Symptoms

1) Hyperglycemia

2) Fatigue and weight loss

3) Frequent urination(especially at night)

4) Excessive hunger and thirst

Complications of diabetes mellitus include: hypoglycemia, retinopathy, neuropathy, dealyed wound healing, acidosis

Diagnosis & Approaches

1) HBA1c - above 6.2%

2) Fasting Blood Sugar - above 126mg/dl

3) Glucose Tolerance Test -above 200 mg/dl

Source: American Diabetes Association