Diabetes Mellitus 

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a disease of inadequate control of blood levels of glucose. It has many subclassifications, including type 1, type 2, maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY), gestational diabetes, neonatal diabetes, and steroid-induced diabetes. Type 1 and 2 DM are the main subtypes, each with different pathophysiology, presentation, and management, but both have a potential for hyperglycemia. This activity outlines the pathophysiology, evaluation, and management of DM and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in managing patients with this condition

1.Definition

Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both.

2. Types of Diabetes:

   - Type 1 Diabetes

 An autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. It usually develops in childhood or adolescence.

- Type 2 Diabetes

The most common form of diabetes, where the body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. It is often associated with obesity and typically develops in adults.

   - Gestational Diabetes

 A form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth. However, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

3. Causes

   -Genetic Factors

 Family history and genetics play a significant role in the development of diabetes.

   - Environmental Factors

 Lifestyle factors    such as diet, physical activity, and obesity contribute to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

   - Autoimmune Factors

In type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

4. Symptoms:

   - Increased Thirst and Urination: Excess glucose in the blood leads to increased urine production and deh

   ydration.

   - Fatigue: Lack of insulin or insulin resistance prevents glucose from entering cells, leading to fatigue.

   - Blurred Vision: High blood sugar levels can cause swelling in the lens of the eye, leading to blurred vision.

   - Slow Healing of Wounds: High blood sugar levels can impair the body's ability to heal wounds.

5. Diagnosis:

   - Blood Tests: Fasting blood glucose test, oral glucose tolerance test, and HbA1c test are commonly used to diagnose diabetes.

   - Symptoms: Presence of classic symptoms such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and unexplained weight loss.

6. Treatment

   - Medications: Insulin therapy for type 1 diabetes and oral medications for type 2 diabetes.

   - Lifestyle Changes: Healthy diet, regular physical activity, and weight management are crucial for managing diabetes.

   - Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels to ensure they remain within the target range.