Diabetes Mellitus

The word diabetes is taken from the Greek word diabainein which literally means ?passing through.? This is in direct reference to excessive urination, a major symptom of diabetes. Mellitus, on the other hand, is from the Greek word mel meaning ?honey? and was added to diabetes when Thomas Willis noted that a diabetic?s blood and urine has a sweet taste as a result of too much sugar in both.

Diabetes mellitus is a medical disorder that is characterized by persistent high blood sugar levels as a result of defective insulin secretion. Diabetes is further classified into two forms, type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Both types can be treated through medicine or lifestyle changes. The main risks that come with having diabetes are cardiovascular diseases, chronic renal failure, retinal damage, nerve damage, and gangrene.

Diabetes Mellitus Type 1

Formerly known as juvenile onset diabetes, diabetes mellitus type 1 is marked by a decrease or the absence of insulin production in the body. This is commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents and leads to absolute insulin deficiency. When diagnosed as having diabetes mellitus type 1, the body destroys its beta cells in the pancreas, which, in turn, reduces insulin production. Diabetes mellitus type 1 is treated with insulin shots and lifestyle adjustments. Blood glucose levels must also be monitored carefully using blood test kits that may be used at home. Insulin may also be administered using insulin pumps that allow insulin infusion 24 hours a day in optimum levels.

Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Adult onset diabetes, or diabetes mellitus type 2 is more common than diabetes mellitus type 2 and is characterized by the body's resistance to insulin. The symptoms related to type 2 diabetes may go unnoticed for years because they are quite mild and occur irregularly. Although type 2 diabetes is more complicated than type 1 diabetes, it is easier to treat. Type 2 diabetes may be managed by proper diet, weight reduction, proper exercise, and oral medication.

By Josh Riverside