Sykursýki

Sykursýki is the Icelandic word for diabetes mellitus. It is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose, or sugar. This occurs because the body either does not produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar, or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.

There are several main types of sykursýki. The most common are type 1 sykursýki, an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, and type 2 sykursýki, which is characterized by insulin resistance and a relative deficiency in insulin secretion. Gestational sykursýki is a form that develops during pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth. Other specific types exist, such as those caused by genetic defects or certain medications.

Symptoms of sykursýki can include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, increased hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing sores. If left unmanaged, high blood glucose levels can damage nerves, blood vessels, and organs over time, leading to serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, and amputations.

Diagnosis of sykursýki is typically made through blood tests that measure glucose levels. Management strategies depend on the type of sykursýki and include lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise, oral medications, and insulin therapy. Regular monitoring of blood glucose is crucial for effective control.