Diabetes mellitus is a disease caused by defective carbohydrate metabolism and characterized by abnormally large amounts of sugar in the blood and urine. Diabetes mellitus is usually classified into two types. Type I or "insulin-dependent" diabetes mellitus (IDDM), formerly called juvenile-onset diabetes, which occurs in children and young adults has been implicated as one of the autoimmune diseases. Type II or "non-insulin-dependent" diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), formerly called adult-onset diabetes is found in persons over 40 years old and progresses slowly.
Detection of Type II diabetes in the absence of symptoms starts with the measurement of the glucose levels in urine. If a high level is detected, the amount of blood sugar is measured after an overnight fast. A high value indicates diabetes, and those with a normal level then undergo an oral glucose tolerance test in which the amount of glucose in the blood is measured after ingestion of a large amount of sugar.
It is essential that diabetic patients are aware of the complications that can occur as a result of being diabetic to ensure that first symptoms of any possible illness are spotted before it can get worse.
These complications can include coronary heart disease which can lead to heart attack; cerebrovascular disease, which can lead to stroke; retinopathy, which can lead to eye complications or blindness; nephropathy, which can lead to kidney failure and often requires dialysis and neuropathy, which can lead to diabetic foot problems.
Fortunately, there are different kinds of treatment that are appropriate to manage diabetes. Some patients are now equipped with insulin pumps that deliver insulin at preset times and rates into the body. Such pumps improve control over blood sugar levels, although acute but non-fatal complications such as ketoacidosis and infection of the infusion site are sometimes observed. Also, an oral sugar-lowering agent may be prescribed for persons who do not require insulin addition to control their diabetes, as well as for those who have trouble injecting themselves or whose diabetes cannot be controlled by insulin addition.
So, if you, or someone you know is a diabetic having trouble with and looking to take control of their insulin intake and blood sugar levels, have them consult their doctor to discuss their many options. While Type II Diabetes is not a curable disease, it is still a reversible disease, and more importantly, it is a disease that can be controlled with a proper diabetic diet and exercise.
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