Diabetes mellitus is among the most common disease affecting populations worldwide and is closely linked to changing lifestyle. The condition is characterized by persistently high blood sugar levels resulting from impaired insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. When left uncontrolled over a longer period of time, diabetes can lead to complications involving other organs such as the heart, kidneys and eyes.
In recent years, factors such as unhealthy dietary habits, physical inactivity, and increasing stress levels have contributed significantly to the rising burden of diabetes. Regular monitoring, timely intervention, and proper lifestyle changes play a key role in effective management. Understanding about diabetes mellitus causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for maintaining long-term health and preventing complications associated with it.
● About Diabetes Mellitus
● Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus
● Types of Diabetes Mellitus
● Risk Factors of Diabetes Mellitus
● Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus
● Healthy Lifestyle For Managing Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus causes an increase in blood sugar (glucose) levels in the body. It is a metabolic disorder in which the body is unable to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. The blood sugar levels in the body are maintained by the hormone produced called insulin. Insulin is produced by the pancreas which helps sugar enter the cells. When insulin production is insufficient or when the body does not respond well to insulin, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream.
Persistent elevation of blood sugar levels interferes with regular metabolic processes and can gradually affect multiple organ systems. Over time, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus produces complications. Some of the diabetes mellitus complications are heart disease, kidney dysfunction and visual impairment.
The symptoms of diabetes mellitus may vary depending on the duration and severity of increased blood sugar levels. In some individuals, symptoms may remain unnoticed for a long period of time. As a result, diabetes is often diagnosed during routine health check-ups or when complications begin to appear.
Early and warning signs of diabetes are:
● Frequent urination (Polyuria)
● Excessive thirst (Polydipsia)
● Increase in appetite(Polyphagia)
● Constant fatigue
● Unexplained weight loss
Frequent urination (Polyuria) , excessive thirst (Polydipsia) and increase in appetite (Polyphagia) are the classical symptoms of diabetes mellitus.
Other symptoms may include:
● Blurred vision
● Delayed wound healing
● Recurrent infections
● Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet as a result of nerve involvement, experienced by some.
Early recognition of these symptoms and timely medical evaluation are crucial for effective management of diabetes mellitus.
There are several types of diabetes mellitus, with some forms being more commonly diagnosed.
Prediabetes – Prediabetes is the pre-stage of Type 2 diabetes. In this condition, blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be considered Type 2 diabetes.
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus – Type 1 diabetes mellitus is also known as juvenile diabetes, as it commonly occurs in children, or insulin-dependent diabetes. In this condition, the pancreas produces little to no insulin. Hence, the person has to take insulin therapy to control blood sugar level.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus – Type 2 diabetes mellitus usually develops in adults, but it is increasingly seen in younger individuals too. In this condition, the body either produces insufficient insulin or becomes resistant to insulin.
Gestational Diabetes – Gestational diabetes develops during pregnancy. This type of diabetes usually resolves after delivery. However, having gestational diabetes puts women at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Diabetes mellitus causes includes:
● Insulin resistance occurs when cells do not respond properly to insulin
● Improper functioning of pancreas
● Hormonal imbalances in case of gestational diabetes
● In type 1 diabetes, the immune system of the body destroys the beta cells of the pancreas that produces insulin
● Genetic mutations
Risk factors increase the likelihood of developing diabetes mellitus. Some risk factors cannot be changed, while others are related to lifestyle and daily habits that can be modified.
● Weight: As excess body fat contributes to insulin resistance.
● Physical Inactivity: Sedentary lifestyle reduces the body’s ability to use insulin effectively.
● Family History & Genetics: Having a family history of diabetes increases risk.
● Age: The risk of diabetes increases with advancing age
● Prediabetes: A condition where blood sugar is higher than normal but not yet in the diabetes range.
● Environmental factors: Exposure to viral illnesses.
Diabetes Mellitus is diagnosed through blood tests. The focus of treatment of diabetes mellitus is to control blood sugar levels through a combination of lifestyle modification and medication to prevent further complications.
The treatment of diabetes mellitus includes:
● Lifestyle Modification: Healthy diet and regular exercise helps in managing all types of diabetes.
● Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular checks are essential to track the sugar levels and guide treatment.
● Insulin Therapy: Necessary for Type 1 diabetes and sometimes needed for Type 2 diabetes to replace or supplement the body's insulin.
● Oral Medications: Medications help to reduce glucose production and improve insulin sensitivity to body cells.
In most of the patient cases, diabetes mellitus causes are closely linked to lifestyle habits, which is why adopting healthy daily practices is important for long-term management.
Diabetes Mellitus can be maintained through certain steps which includes:
● Controlling carbohydrate intake- To avoid blood sugar spikes
● Limiting the intake of saturated fat - Reduce risk of developing heart diseases
● Eating plant-based protein and high-fiber foods
● Drinking water instead of sugary drinks or calorie free sweeteners
● Exercising
● Quitting smoking
● Managing stress levels
It is necessary to have timely intervention in diabetes mellitus and to maintain blood sugar levels in order to lead a productive life. Effective management of diabetes mellitus involves a combination of a healthy diet, exercise, weight management, and consistent monitoring of blood sugar levels. Dieticians can be consulted for a diet plan for diabetic patients if one is unsure how to manage diabetes mellitus.
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