Diabetes Mellitus, more commonly known as diabetes, is a persistent medical condition that impacts the body's sugar-processing abilities. It arises when the pancreas, a vital gland, fails to generate sufficient insulin or when the body is unable to properly utilize it. There are three forms of diabetes, namely type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes. In this article, we will delve into the root causes and recognizable symptoms of diabetes mellitus.
Causes and Symptoms of Diabetes Mellitus
Listed below are the causes of Diabetes Mellitus:
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Genetic factors:
Family history can play a role in the development of diabetes. If your parents have diabetes, there is a possibility that you may also be at a higher risk. However, having a family history of diabetes does not always mean that you will develop the condition.
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Unhealthy lifestyle:
An unhealthy routine can contribute to the development of diabetes. Eating a diet high in sugary and processed foods, being overweight or obese, and not engaging in regular physical activity can increase the risk of developing diabetes.
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Autoimmune disease:
Sometimes, the body's immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the cells in the pancreas responsible for producing insulin. This condition is known as autoimmune diabetes. It is not entirely clear why this happens, but it can lead to the development of diabetes.
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Pregnancy:
Certain pregnant women may experience inadequate production of insulin during pregnancy due to increased hormonal activity and bodily changes, including weight gain. This decrease in insulin effectiveness can lead to gestational diabetes.
The signs and symptoms of diabetes mellitus include:
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Frequent urination:
One of the common symptoms of diabetes is the need to urinate more frequently than usual. The elevated sugar levels in the blood draw water from the body's tissues, causing an increase in urine production.
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Increased thirst:
Along with frequent urination, diabetes can cause increased thirst. As the body loses more water through urine, it tries to compensate by making you feel thirsty.
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Fatigue:
People with diabetes often feel tired and lack energy. This happens because the body cannot use glucose effectively for energy, resulting in fatigue.
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Weight loss:
Individuals with diabetes may experience unexpected weight loss. When the body doesn't have enough insulin or cannot use it properly, it starts breaking down muscle and fat for energy, causing weight loss.
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Slow healing of wounds:
Diabetes can affect the body's healing ability. Sores, cuts, or bruises may take longer to heal, and infections may occur more frequently.
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Blurry vision:
High blood sugar levels affect the eye lens, causing it to swell. This swelling affects the eye's ability to focus properly, resulting in blurry vision.
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Mood swings:
When blood sugar is too high or too low, it affects brain function and can lead to feelings of irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.
By managing diabetes through medication, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes, individuals with diabetes can lead healthy and fulfilling lives. Having a health insurance plan can help cover medical expenses and ensure timely treatment, reducing financial stress.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.