Sokeritauti

Sokeritauti is the Finnish term for diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose (sugar). This condition arises from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar.

There are several main types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This leads to an absolute deficiency of insulin. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, where the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or the body's cells don't respond properly to insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance. Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth, though it increases the risk of type 2 diabetes later in life for both the mother and child.

Symptoms of diabetes can vary but often include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, increased hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to serious long-term complications affecting the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves.

Diagnosis of sokeritauti is typically made through blood tests that measure glucose levels. Management strategies depend on the type of diabetes and may include lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, oral medications, and insulin therapy. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is crucial for individuals with diabetes to maintain good health and prevent complications.