What are the Causes and Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus?
October 28, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Diabetes mellitus, often referred to simply as diabetes, is a chronic medical condition characterized by elevated blood sugar (glucose) levels. There are several types of diabetes, with the most common being type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes. Here are the causes and symptoms of these three main types of diabetes:
1. Type 1 Diabetes:
- Cause: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. The exact cause of this autoimmune response is not fully understood but may involve genetic and environmental factors.
- Symptoms:
- Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
- Frequent urination (polyuria)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Increased hunger (polyphagia)
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Frequent infections
- Slow wound healing
- Ketosis (accumulation of ketones in the blood)
2. Type 2 Diabetes:
- Cause: Type 2 diabetes is primarily linked to insulin resistance and inadequate insulin production. It is often associated with lifestyle factors, including obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet. Genetics also play a role in susceptibility to type 2 diabetes.
- Symptoms:
- Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
- Frequent urination (polyuria)
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- Increased hunger (polyphagia)
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Frequent infections
- Slow wound healing
- Acanthosis nigricans (darkened skin patches, often in the neck or armpits)
- Gestational diabetes (develops during pregnancy)
3. Gestational Diabetes:
- Cause: Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and is associated with hormonal changes and the body’s inability to produce enough insulin to meet increased demands. It typically resolves after childbirth, but it increases the risk of type 2 diabetes later in life.
- Symptoms: In many cases, gestational diabetes does not cause noticeable symptoms. However, it can lead to the following complications:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Increased hunger
- Blurred vision
- High blood sugar levels in pregnancy
It’s important to note that some individuals with type 2 diabetes may not experience noticeable symptoms and may remain undiagnosed for an extended period. Regular health check-ups and blood sugar monitoring are essential for early detection and management.
Diabetes management often involves dietary modifications, physical activity, medications (including insulin for type 1 and some type 2 diabetes cases), and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. Untreated or poorly managed diabetes can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, kidney problems, neuropathy, vision loss, and more. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals with diabetes to work closely with healthcare professionals to control their blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications.