Diabetes Mellitus Overview and Types

Study Notes

Overview

Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar (hyperglycemia).
It results from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both.

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes
- Autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
- Commonly diagnosed in children and young adults.
- Requires lifelong insulin therapy.
Type 2 Diabetes
- Insulin resistance coupled with relative insulin deficiency.
- Often associated with obesity and sedentary lifestyle.
- Managed through lifestyle changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin.
Gestational Diabetes
- Occurs during pregnancy; characterized by high blood sugar levels.
- Can lead to complications for both mother and child.
- Usually resolves after childbirth, but increases risk for Type 2 diabetes later.

Symptoms

Increased thirst (polydipsia)
Frequent urination (polyuria)
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Slow-healing sores or frequent infections

Diagnosis

Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥ 126 mg/dL
Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) ≥ 200 mg/dL
A1C test ≥ 6.5%
Random plasma glucose ≥ 200 mg/dL with symptoms

Complications

Short-term:
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) in Type 1
- Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS) in Type 2
Long-term:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Neuropathy (nerve damage)
- Nephropathy (kidney damage)
- Retinopathy (eye damage)
- Foot complications (ulcers/amputations)

Management

Lifestyle Modifications:
- Diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity.
Medications:
- Type 1: Insulin therapy is mandatory.
- Type 2: Metformin is often first-line; other oral agents or insulin may be needed.
Monitoring:
- Regular blood glucose monitoring.
- A1C testing every 3-6 months.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices: balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight.
Regular health screenings for at-risk individuals.

Education and Support

Diabetes education is essential for self-management.
Support networks, including healthcare professionals and community resources, can aid patients.

Overview

Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic condition leading to elevated blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).
Occurs due to issues with insulin production or function.

Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes
- Autoimmune condition destroying beta cells in the pancreas.
- Primarily diagnosed in children and young adults.
- Requires lifelong administration of insulin.
Type 2 Diabetes
- Characterized by insulin resistance along with insufficient insulin production.
- Commonly linked to obesity and lack of physical activity.
- Managed through lifestyle changes, oral medications, and occasionally insulin therapy.
Gestational Diabetes
- Develops during pregnancy, marked by elevated blood sugar.
- Can cause complications for both mother and infant.
- Typically resolves post-delivery but increases future risk for Type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms

Increased thirst (polydipsia) and frequent urination (polyuria).
Unexplained weight loss and persistent fatigue.
Blurred vision and slow-healing wounds/infections.

Diagnosis

Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) of 126 mg/dL or higher.
Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) reading of 200 mg/dL or above.
A1C level of 6.5% or greater confirms diagnosis.
Random plasma glucose of 200 mg/dL or more along with symptoms warrants diagnosis.

Complications

Short-term complications:
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) in Type 1 diabetics.
- Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS) in Type 2 diabetics.
Long-term complications:
- Increased risk for cardiovascular diseases.
- Neuropathy leading to nerve damage.
- Nephropathy resulting in kidney damage.
- Retinopathy, causing eye damage.
- Risk of foot complications, such as ulcers or amputations.

Management

Lifestyle Modifications:
- Emphasize a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Engage in regular exercise to enhance insulin sensitivity.
Medications:
- Type 1 diabetes requires mandatory insulin therapy.
- Metformin typically serves as the first-line treatment for Type 2 diabetes, with other medications or insulin added as necessary.
Monitoring:
- Blood glucose levels should be regularly checked.
- Schedule A1C tests every 3-6 months for ongoing management.

Prevention

Embrace a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight management.
Conduct periodic health screenings for individuals at risk of developing diabetes.

Education and Support

Essential for patients to be educated about diabetes for effective self-management.
Access to support networks, including healthcare providers and community resources, is crucial for patient assistance.

Description

This quiz covers the fundamental aspects of Diabetes Mellitus, including its definition, types, and common symptoms. It highlights Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational diabetes, along with their characteristics and management options. Test your knowledge on this chronic metabolic disorder and its impact on health.