Diabetes Mellitus Treatment

Diabetes mellitus is synonymous with diabetes and is a chronic and progressive disease that can lead to fatal complications if it is not treated properly. Those who control their diabetes can live productive, healthy lives.

Significance

According to the World Health Organization, diabetes affects about 171 million adults and children around the world and kills about 3.2 million annually. Diabetes is not curable, but it is treatable.

Symptoms

Symptoms of diabetes I and II include increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, weight loss, lethargy, irritability, hyperventilation, coma and death.

Medications

Medication-related treatements include insulin replacement with injections or an insulin pump. Type I diabetics must have insulin replacement. Type II diabetics may need insulin or may be able to take oral medications.

Diet

Diabetics must control glucose levels by eating a balanced diet that includes complex carbohydrates (vegetables) as opposed to simple carbohydrates (candy).

Exercise

Exercise can help keep weight within normal limits, and may in some cases reverse Type II diabetes.

Glucose Monitoring

Diligent monitoring of glucose levels is essential to diabetes treatment. Glucose levels determine the amount of insulin needed. Poorly controlled levels can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, hypertension, eye damage, nerve damage, poor healing injuries, frequent hospitalizations, coma and death.

References

• Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health

Resources

• Diabetes Symptoms, American Diabetes Association, 2009