Diabetes Mellitus - A Metabolic Disorder

Diabetes (diabetes mellitus) is no longer a new disorder for the generation of the present century. It prevails very frequently among the population of the modern world. Diabetes mellitus is basically termed as a metabolic disorder. Metabolism may be defined as the process of breakdown of food material for the generation of energy so that it can be utilized for growth and development. The end product of the food is glucose which is a sugar. The sugar glucose is present in our blood and is the chief source of energy our body needs. When the food we eat is digested, glucose enters our bloodstream and the cells utilize this glucose for growth and development. The cells cannot take directly glucose from the blood they require insulin for this task. Insulin makes the glucose readily available to the cells to be utilized. Actually insulin is a hormone that is secreted by pancreas. When food is eaten, pancreas secretes adequate quantity of insulin so that the glucose present in the bloodstream may enter the cells, so that the glucose level in the blood declines. An individual suffering from diabetes generally shows elevated levels of blood glucose and this condition is termed as hyperglycemia. This condition may arise when the body produces little or no insulin or the cells do not respond to the insulin produced by the pancreas resulting in higher blood glucose levels. The excess glucose leaves the body through urine. The body growth and development is hampered although plenty of glucose is present in the blood stream but the cells are not able to utilize it.



The word diabetes has got it origin from a Greek word meaning siphon. Aretus the Cappadocian was a Greek physician during the second century A.D. who the condition diabainein. The word became "diabetes" from the English adoption of the Medieval Latin diabetes. In 1675 Thomas Willis added mellitus to the term, although it is commonly referred to simply as diabetes. Mel in Latin means honey; the urine and blood of people with diabetes has excess glucose, and glucose is sweet like honey. In ancient China people found that ants were found to be attracted towards the urine of some people because it was sweet in taste so the term "Sweet Urine Disease" was coined. There exist three main forms of diabetes. The first type is called as Diabetes Type-I where no insulin is produced at all. The second type is called as Diabetes Type-II where either insulin is not produced in a sufficient quantity or the body insulin is not functioning properly. Both the diabetes Type-I, Type-II is chronic and persistent. The third type of diabetes is called gestational diabetes; it develops during pregnancy and resolves itself after child birth. The treatment for all the types of diabetes is available but Type-I and Type-II diabetes persists for lifetime with no known cure. The patient is administered regular doses of insulin which is available from 1921. The patient suffering from Type-I receives regular doses of insulin along with dietary as well as physical exercise. Patients suffering from Type-II are preferred tablets along with dietary as well as physical exercise but in some extreme cases the insulin injections are also administered to them. When the diabetes becomes uncontrollable the patient faces several complications which include hypoglycemia, ketoacidosis, and nonketotic hypersosmolar coma. The longer complications comprise cardiovascular disease, retinal damage, chronic kidney failure, nerve damage, poor healing of wounds, gangrene on the feet which may lead to amputation, and erectile dysfunction.



The individuals suffering from diabetes may be unaware of it sometimes as the earlier symptoms appear harmless. Regular medical checkup should be done in order to avoid the severe complications. The symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination where the blood glucose level is very high, the insulin is ineffective and the kidneys take more water in order to dilute glucose. This results in loss of blood glucose in the urine. Disproportionate thirst is another symptom where the patient drinks much more amount of water as compared to the normal person. Thirst is enhanced. Diabetes also results in the generation of intense hunger. This is because the cells are not able to utilize adequate amount of glucose for their growth and development they try to find sources of energy from wherever possible. This intense hunger results in weight gain. Patients suffering from Type-I are noticed with profuse weight loss because the cells are not getting energy, the fat stored in the body and the muscles breaks in order to provide energy. The depletion of body reserves leads to weight loss and increased fatigue along with increased irritability. Diabetes also leads to blurred vision and the wounds and the cuts take longer time to heal. The body becomes more prone to infections. The gums become red and swollen pulling away the teeth. Men suffering from diabetes generally show sexual dysfunction. Excessive amount of sugar in the blood also damages the nerves resulting in numbness or tingling of hands and feet. Diabetes can be diagnosed by carrying out the urine test which predicts excessive amount of blood glucose. Blood test also predicts the glucose level strengthening to the fact that the person is having diabetes.



The Type-I diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the person's body has destroyed its own insulin producing beta cells of pancreas so no insulin is produced. Most people develop diabetes Type-I at the age of 40. Out of all the individuals suffering from diabetes 15% persons have Type-I. Type-I is basically fatal unless the patient receives regular doses of insulin. Pancreas transplant is also helpful for the patients suffering from Type-I as it can help in normal production of insulin so that the condition may be kept under control. Type-I may also occur at the age of 18. It is non-preventable. AC peptide is basically used to diagnose whether an individual is having Type-I or Type-II. The diet should be kept under control for a patient suffering from diabetes Type-I. Individuals are prescribed to eat food low in fat, little or no sugar in meals. The amount of cholesterol as well as carbohydrates should be maintained. Person's suffering from Type-I diabetes have greater risks of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, blindness, kidney failure, gum disease and nerve damage, compared to a person who does not have any type of diabetes. Physical exercise helps to regulate the blood sugar level.



In diabetes Type-II the person either does not produce insulin or shows insulin resistance. The persons suffering from Type-II are overweight. This form usually occurs at a later age. In the early stages of Type 2 insulin sensitivity is the main abnormality - also there are elevated levels of insulin in the blood. There are medications which can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose production by the liver. The risk factors of Type-II include cardiovascular attacks, development of gestational diabetes, impaired fasting glycaemia (IFG), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), severe mental health problems.



Diabetes can be kept under control by keeping the blood sugar level under control by taking proper diet not very much rich in fats, carbohydrates, sugar and cholesterol. Smoking should be avoided. A health care professional can also take care of a patient suffering from diabetes as he or she can provide the patient a proper diet chart along with the type of exercise a patient requires. Now these days' glucose meters are also available so that the patient can check his or her glucose level by himself.

Diabetes is Not a Disease - It is Only A Disorder

Introduction :



This article is mainly intended to make the reader understand what diabetes is, what causes diabetes, the diagnosis, the signs and symptoms, the types and the treatment to help the reader remove his worst fears about this disorder.



So What is Diabetes?



Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by the elevated blood sugar level. It occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or put in other words, when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.



What Causes Diabetes?



Diabetes is basically a genetic disorder influenced by environmental factors such as obesity, lack of exercises and stress which may trigger the disease in predisposed individuals. Heredity is also one of the main reasons.



Signs and Symptoms :



Diabetes can appear with or without symptoms. The most common symptoms are increase in frequency in urine(poly urea), increase in thirst(polydypsia), giddiness, weakness, delayed wound healing and unexplained weight Loss.



Diagnosis :



Diabetes is diagnosed by a simple blood test for the presence of excess sugar. The blood sugar is measured in milligrams per deciliter or mg/dL which is the standard measuring unit. Any blood sugar reading that is 126 mg/dL, or higher is considered a diabetes diagnosis. If your reading is between 100 and 125 mg/dL, you will be categorized as prediabetes with Type2 in future unless you can reverse the direction.
Typical Glucose or Blood Sugar Level
- Fasting Blood Sugar: 70-99mg/dL
- 2 hours after eating(Post Prandial) : 70-145mg/dL
- Random(casual): 70-125mg/dL



Types of Diabetes :



There are three types of diabetes: Type1, Type2 and Gestational diabetes. Type1 diabetes is also known as insulin dependent diabetes or juvenile diabetes. It is most commonly diagnosed in childhood. Type2 diabetes, also called non-insulin dependent
Diabetes, is the most common form of diabetes. Gestinal diabetes occurs in pregnant woman(most commonly 24th to 28th week of gestation), but usually disappears when a pregnancy is over, Women who have had gestinal diabetes are at the increased risk of later developing Type2 diabetes.



Effects of Diabetes :



Diabetes can damage body vessels and nerves and decrease the body's ability to fight infection.That is why it leads to all sort of complications. Diabetes can contribute to eye disorder and blindness, stroke, kidney failure, amputation and nerve damage.



Treatment :



First and foremost, you should consult a doctor as soon you find one of these symptoms. Depending on the type of diabetes[falling under one of the above mentioned categories] you would be prescribed a treatment. Natural diet and exercises help diabetic people to a great extent. Practising yoga is a natural way of keeping your body healthy and your mind peaceful. A life without stress and a light happy heart will help one to have good control over your body.



Conclusion :



Ok, the fact is 'Diabetes is complex and complicated'. But it is definitely in your hands to make it 'Simple and Keep it well under your Control'. Diabetes is a universal problem. Consult your doctor regularly and get your levels checked. Type2 diabetes is the prominent type, almost more than 80% of people have it. By maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, practicing yoga and leading a sound healthy way of life, one can even get away without medication for Type2 Diabetes!!!!

Diabetic Dogs - Keeping the Disorder Under Control

In the same way that millions of people cope with diabetes, so too, does the disease affect canines. Specifically, the disorder is called diabetes mellitus (DM). An insulin deficiency prevents your pooch's body from metabolizing glucose effectively. There are two varieties of DM: Type I and Type II. The former is the most prevalent type (99% of dogs with DM suffer from this type) and occurs when the body doesn't produce enough insulin. The latter occurs when insulin is manufactured but your pooch's body isn't able to use it properly.



In this article, we'll describe the warning signs that may suggest your canine has developed diabetes mellitus. It's a potentially life-threatening condition, so catching it early is critical. We'll also explain how the disease is diagnosed and treated as well as what you can do at home to help your dog manage the disorder.



Possible Warning Signs



The most common symptoms of DM include a marked increase in the amount of water your canine drinks and as a result, the frequency with which he urinates. You might also notice that he is losing weight even though he maintains a strong appetite. Other signs include a general apathy or decrease in physical activity and the sudden onset of blindness.



Treatment After Diagnosis



The health of your pooch can decline rapidly once diabetes mellitus develops. His body's inability to process glucose effectively can lead to severe dehydration and other health issues. It is important that you have a veterinarian perform a full physical exam if you notice any of the warning signs described in the section above.



The veterinarian will ask you about your dog's eating routine as well as his elimination activity. You'll also be asked to describe any changes in his weight and disposition. Then, a urine analysis is performed to identify possible infections and review glucose levels.



Once diabetes mellitus has been diagnosed, your veterinarian will teach you how to administer daily insulin injections for your pooch. He or she will also create a diet and exercise routine that will help your canine manage his weight. During the first several weeks of treatment, the amount of insulin administered will likely change. Most veterinarians prefer to start cautiously with small doses and increase them gradually.



What You Can Do At Home



Providing care for your dog involves administering daily insulin shots (sometimes, twice daily) as well as any other medications that your veterinarian has recommended. You'll also need to be vigilant regarding your canine's eating and exercise routine in order to ensure he maintains a healthy weight level. If your dog experiences an insulin overdose (he might seem weak or disoriented), give him food right away.



As noted, diabetes mellitus can be potentially deadly. However, once it has been diagnosed, you can help your dog live a healthy, happy, and problem-free life.

Borderline Personality Disorder - BPD & Me!

Raising questions, finding answers



Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a serious mental illness characterized by pervasive instability in moods, interpersonal relationships, self-image, and behavior. This instability often disrupts family and work life, long-term planning, and the individual's sense of self-identity.



Originally thought to be at the "borderline" of psychosis, people with BPD suffer from a disorder of emotion regulation. While less well known than schizophrenia or bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness), BPD is more common, affecting 2 percent of adults, mostly young women.



There are a high rate of self-injury without suicide intent, as well as a significant rate of suicide attempts and completed suicide in severe cases. Patients often need extensive mental health services, and account for 20 percent of psychiatric hospitalizations.



Yet, with help, many improve over time and are eventually able to lead productive lives. Symptoms While a person with depression or bipolar disorder typically endures the same mood for weeks. A person with BPD may experience intense bouts of anger, depression, and anxiety that may last only hours, or at most a day. These may be associated with episodes of impulsive aggression, self-injury, and drug or alcohol abuse.



Distortions in cognition and sense of self can lead to frequent changes in long-term goals, career plans, jobs, friendships, gender identity, and values. Sometimes people with BPD view themselves as fundamentally bad, or unworthy. They may feel unfairly misunderstood or mistreated, bored, empty, and have little idea who they are. Such symptoms are most acute when people with BPD feel isolated and lacking in social support, and may result in frantic efforts to avoid being alone.



People with BPD often have highly unstable patterns of social relationships. While they can develop intense but stormy attachments, their attitudes towards family, friends, and loved ones may suddenly shift from idealization (great admiration and love) to devaluation (intense anger and dislike).



Thus, they may form an immediate attachment and idealize the other person, but when a slight separation or conflict occurs, they switch unexpectedly to the other extreme and angrily accuse the other person of not caring for them at all. Even with family members, individuals with BPD are highly sensitive to rejection, reacting with anger and distress to such mild separations as a vacation, a business trip, or a sudden change in plans.



These fears of abandonment seem to be related to difficulties feeling emotionally connected to important persons when they are physically absent, leaving the individual with BPD feeling lost and perhaps worthless. Suicide threats and attempts may occur along with anger at perceived abandonment and disappointments.



People with BPD exhibit other impulsive behaviors, such as excessive spending, binge eating and risky sex. BPD often occurs together with other psychiatric problems, particularly bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and other personality disorders.



Treatment



Treatments for BPD have improved in recent years. Group and individual psychotherapy are at least partially effective for many patients. Within the past 15 years, a new psychosocial treatment termed dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was developed specifically to treat BPD, and this technique has looked promising in treatment studies.



Pharmacological treatments are often prescribed based on specific target symptoms shown by the individual patient. Antidepressant drugs and mood stabilizers may be helpful for depressed and/or labile mood. Antipsychotic drugs may also be used when there are distortions in thinking.



Recent Research Findings



Although the cause of BPD is unknown, both environmental and genetic factors are thought to play a role in predisposing patients to BPD symptoms and traits. Studies show that many, but not all individuals with BPD report a history of abuse, neglect, or separation as young children Forty to 71 percent of BPD patients report having been sexually abused, usually by a non-caregiver.



Researchers believe that BPD results from a combination of individual vulnerability to environmental stress, neglect or abuse as young children. A series of events that trigger the onset of the disorder as young adults.



Adults with BPD are also considerably more likely to be the victim of violence, including rape and other crimes. This may result from both harmful environments as well as impulsivity and poor judgment in choosing partners and lifestyles.



NIMH-funded neuroscience research is revealing brain mechanisms underlying the impulsivity, mood instability, aggression, anger, and negative emotion seen in BPD. Studies suggest that people predisposed to impulsive aggression have impaired regulation of the neural circuits that modulate emotion. The amygdale, a small almond-shaped structure deep inside the brain, is an important component of the circuit that regulates negative emotion.



In response to signals from other brain centers indicating a perceived threat, it marshals fear and arousal. This might be more pronounced under the influence of drugs like alcohol, or stress. Areas in the front of the brain (pre-frontal area) act to dampen the activity of this circuit. Recent brain imaging studies show that individual differences in the ability to activate regions of the prefrontal cerebral cortex thought to be involved in inhibitory activity predict the ability to suppress negative emotion.



Serotonin, nor epinephrine and acetylcholine are among the chemical messengers in these circuits that play a role in the regulation of emotions, including sadness, anger, anxiety, and irritability. Drugs that enhance brain serotonin function may improve emotional symptoms in BPD.



Likewise, mood-stabilizing drugs that are known to enhance the activity of GABA, the brain's major inhibitory neurotransmitter, may help people who experience BPD-like mood swings. Such brain-based vulnerabilities can be managed with help from behavioral interventions and medications, much like people manage susceptibility to diabetes or high blood pressure.



Future Progress Studies that translate basic findings about the neural basis of temperament, mood regulation, and cognition into clinically relevant insights which bear directly on BPD represent a growing area of NIMH-supported research.



Research is also underway to test the efficacy of combining medications with behavioral treatments like DBT, and gauging the effect of childhood abuse and other stress in BPD on brain hormones. Data from the first prospective, longitudinal study of BPD, which began in the early 1990s, is expected to reveal how treatment affects the course of the illness.



It will also pinpoint specific environmental factors and personality traits that predict a more favorable outcome. The Institute is also collaborating with a private foundation to help attract new researchers to develop a better understanding and better treatment for BPD.