Diabetes mellitus

18 July 2025

Diabetes mellitus - is a group of metabolic diseases characterised by an increase in blood glucose (sugar) levels, which is the result of a disruption in the production or absorption of insulin. Subsequently, this leads to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerve endings.

There are several types of diabetes mellitus: type I diabetes, type II diabetes, gestational diabetes and others.

Symptoms of diabetes mellitus:

dry mouth and thirst;
frequent urination;
visual impairment;
feeling tired, excessive weakness;
itchy skin;
numbness in the fingers and toes;
weight loss (in case of type 1 diabetes);
overweight (in case of type 2 diabetes mellitus).

Elevated blood sugar levels have a negative impact on the human body as a whole, including the vascular system. And if this is observed for a long time, it leads to the development of micro- and macrovascular complications.

Microvascular complications:

damage to the retina of the eye (diabetic retinopathy), which can lead to impaired vision and blindness;
kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy), which can lead to chronic kidney failure;
damage to the nervous system (diabetic neuropathy), which is manifested by pain, loss of sensation, especially in the extremities, and can lead to diabetic foot up to the need for amputation.

Macrovascular complications:

cardiovascular disorders - arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease;
brain damage - stroke;
damage to the peripheral vessels of the extremities, in particular, their narrowing, which leads to a decrease or cessation of blood supply.

Prevention of diabetes: 6 tips for health.

Be proactive. Daily walks, exercise, fitness - all of this lowers sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity.
Eat a balanced diet. Avoid strict diets. Choose a menu together with a specialist, taking into account the needs of your body.
Eat more fibre. It is found in vegetables, fruits, nuts, and cereals and helps control glucose levels.
Watch your weight. Losing extra pounds reduces the risk of diabetes by almost half.
Give up bad habits. Smoking and excessive alcohol are a direct path to sugar problems.
Have regular check-ups. Early detection of diabetes helps to avoid serious complications.

Remember: The earlier diabetes is detected, the more chances you have to control the disease and live a full life. Take care of your health and undergo preventive examinations every year!

Source:

N.O. Tetiorkina, medical assistant