What is Diabetes Mellitus?

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic medical condition characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. It is caused by either a lack of insulin production or the body's inability to properly use insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels.

There are three main types of diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune disease that occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This type of diabetes usually develops in childhood or adolescence and requires insulin therapy.

Type 2 diabetes: This type of diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. It is often associated with lifestyle factors such as obesity and physical inactivity, and can often be managed with diet and exercise, as well as medication in some cases.

Gestational diabetes: This type of diabetes develops during pregnancy and usually goes away after the baby is born. However, women who have had gestational diabetes have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

Diabetes can cause a wide range of complications, including damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and blood vessels, and can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems. Proper management of diabetes, including blood sugar monitoring, medication, diet, exercise, and regular medical check-ups, can help prevent or delay these complications.