Insulindeficient
Insulindeficient refers to a state where the body does not produce or effectively use insulin, a hormone essential for regulating blood glucose levels. This deficiency leads to hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, as glucose cannot be transported from the bloodstream into cells for energy. There are two primary types of insulindeficient conditions. Type 1 diabetes mellitus is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This results in an absolute deficiency of insulin. Type 2 diabetes mellitus, while not always characterized by absolute insulin deficiency, often involves insulin resistance where the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin, and over time, the pancreas may become less able to produce sufficient insulin to overcome this resistance. Gestational diabetes is another form that occurs during pregnancy and can lead to insulindeficiency. Symptoms of insulindeficiency can include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision. Chronic hyperglycemia associated with insulindeficiency can lead to serious long-term complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and cardiovascular system. Diagnosis typically involves blood glucose tests. Management strategies aim to control blood glucose levels and may include insulin therapy, lifestyle modifications, and oral medications.