Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disorder that fundamentally changes how your body processes glucose (sugar). Think of insulin as a key that unlocks your cells to let glucose enter and provide energy. In diabetes, this process breaks down in one of two ways: either your body stops producing the key (insulin), or the locks on your cells change so the key doesn't work properly.

When working correctly, your pancreas produces insulin whenever you eat. This insulin helps move glucose from your bloodstream into your cells, where it's used for energy. However, in diabetes, this system malfunctions, leading to high blood sugar levels that can damage various parts of your body over time

 

Diabetes mellitus is often referred to as the "silent killer" because of its ability to damage the body's nerve cells that control pain sensation. This complex metabolic disorder affects how your body processes glucose, the main source of energy for your cells. When diabetes is present, your body either doesn't produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces, leading to elevated blood sugar levels

Type 1 Diabetes

In Type 1 diabetes, your immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. It's like having a factory that can no longer produce the keys (insulin) needed to unlock your cells. This typically develops in childhood or young adulthood, which is why it was previously called "juvenile diabetes."

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Type 2 Diabetes

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Type 2 diabetes is different - your body still produces insulin, but either doesn't make enough or has become resistant to its effects. It's as if the locks on your cells have changed, making it harder for insulin to do its job. This form develops gradually, usually in adults, though it's increasingly seen in younger people due to lifestyle factors.

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During pregnancy, some women develop gestational diabetes when pregnancy hormones interfere with insulin function. While typically temporary, it requires careful monitoring as it can affect both mother and baby.

When glucose can't enter your cells properly, it builds up in your bloodstream. Over time, this excess glucose can damage blood vessels and nerves throughout your body, leading to complications such as:

• Heart disease and stroke

• Vision problems or blindness

• Kidney damage

• Nerve damage (neuropathy)

• Poor wound healing

• Increased risk of infections

Understanding high sugar symptoms is crucial for early detection. Common signs include:

Increased thirst and urination occur because your kidneys work overtime to filter out excess glucose, pulling more water from your tissues. This leads to dehydration and constant thirst.

Unexplained weight loss happens despite increased hunger because your body, unable to use glucose properly, begins breaking down muscle and fat for energy.

Fatigue sets in because your cells aren't getting the energy they need, even though there's plenty of glucose in your bloodstream.

Diabetes mellitus is more than just "high blood sugar" - it's a complex condition that affects how your entire body processes energy. Understanding the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is crucial for proper management. While it requires lifelong attention, modern treatments and monitoring methods make it possible to lead a healthy, active life. 

Book your appointment at Hazba Medical Center today and get tested.

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