Diabetes Mellitus – A Practical Guide for Patients
Understanding Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by persistent hyperglycaemia due to defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both.
Normal Glucose Regulation
Food → Glucose → Pancreas releases insulin → Glucose enters cells → Energy
In diabetes, insulin is absent or ineffective, causing glucose to remain in the bloodstream.
Major Types of Diabetes
| Type | Cause | Typical Age | Main Treatment |
| Type 1 | Autoimmune β-cell destruction | Usually young | Insulin |
| Type 2 | Insulin resistance + β-cell dysfunction | Adults (also younger) | Lifestyle ± medicines |
| Gestational | Pregnancy-related insulin resistance | Pregnancy | Diet ± insulin/medicines |
| Other | Genetic, pancreatic or endocrine causes | Any age | Cause-specific |
Common Symptoms
| Symptoms | Reason |
| Frequent urination | Excess glucose in urine |
| Excessive thirst | Water loss |
| Weight loss | Fat and muscle breakdown |
| Blurred vision | High glucose affects lens |
| Fatigue | Reduced cellular glucose use |
| Slow wound healing | Poor circulation and immunity |
Major Complications
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Kidney disease
• Eye disease
• Nerve damage
• Foot ulcers
Figure 1 (Placeholder)
[Insert infographic: Food → Glucose → Insulin → Cell → Energy]
[Insert body-organ diagram showing eyes, heart, kidneys, nerves and feet affected by diabetes.]
Key Messages
• Diabetes is common but manageable.
• Early diagnosis reduces complications.
• Healthy lifestyle and regular follow-up are essential.
• Treatment should be individualized.
References
- ADA Standards of Care in Diabetes (latest edition).
- IDF Diabetes Atlas, 11th Edition.
- WHO. Diabetes Fact Sheet.