Diabeet

Diabeet, often translated as diabetes mellitus, is a chronic condition defined by elevated blood glucose due to insufficient insulin production, impaired insulin action, or both. It includes type 1 diabetes (autoimmune loss of insulin-producing beta cells), type 2 diabetes (insulin resistance with progressive insulin deficiency), and gestational diabetes (glucose intolerance during pregnancy).

Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision, though some people have no early signs. Diagnosis relies on blood tests such as fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, or an oral glucose tolerance test, with criteria met on one or more occasions. Regular screening is advised for those at risk.

Management aims to maintain blood glucose near normal levels through lifestyle changes and medications tailored to the type. Type 1 requires insulin therapy; type 2 often begins with metformin and may include other oral agents or insulin. Gestational diabetes is managed with diet, glucose monitoring, and sometimes insulin or non-insulin injectables.

Complications can be acute (hypoglycemia, ketoacidosis) or chronic (retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, cardiovascular disease). Prevention emphasizes early detection, healthy lifestyle, and regular screening for eyes, kidneys, and feet. Global prevalence is high and rising with aging populations and increasing obesity.