Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a group of dieases characterized by high levels of blood sugar (glucose) resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Diabetes can be associated with serious complications and premature death, but people with diabetes can take measures to reduce the likelihood of such occurrences (NIDDK, Diabetes Statistics, 1999).
Types, Causes, and Risks:
There are four types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, Gestational, and "Other Specific Types."
The causes vary for each type of diabetes.
The risks may vary by age, health status, and many other factors.
Identification and Treatment:
Actually identifying whether or not a person has diabetes requires diagnosis by a physician. Individuals might have some or none of the following symptoms: frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, extreme hunger, sudden vision changes, tingling or numbness in hands or feet, feeling very tired much of the time, very dry skin, sores that are slow to heal, and more infections than usual.
Treatment depends on myriad factors. It must be individualized, and must address medical, psychosocial, and lifestyle issues.
Other Sites for General/Research Information:
National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases
Diabetesmonitor.com, an award-winning site with diabetes related links.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Healthfinder Web Site: Keyword "diabetes".
This page was created by Captain Dean E. Doering, United States Air Force, Medical Service Corps, as a course project for The U.S. Army - Baylor University Graduate Program in Healthcare Administration.