What is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a heterogeneous group of disorders. DM is characterised by impaired glucose tolerance and altered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. It is of two types: type I diabetes mellitus, which is insulin-dependent, and type II diabetes mellitus, which is non-insulin-dependent. The age of onset for Type I DM is below 30 years and is caused by the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas responsible for insulin production. Type II DM is a result of impaired insulin function.

Symptoms

The symptoms of diabetes include

  • Weakness
  • Fatigue
  • Polyuria (enhanced urine production)
  • Polydipsia (excessive thirst)
  • Polyphagia (excessive eating or appetite)