Final answer:
Diabetes mellitus is caused by either the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas or by cells in the body developing resistance to insulin. The former leads to Type 1 diabetes, while the latter is associated with Type 2 diabetes. Due to these issues, the body uses fats for energy, which increases ketone production and can result in ketoacidosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Diabetes mellitus occurs due to two primary issues: the destruction or dysfunction of the beta cells of the pancreas that produce insulin, or the development of cellular resistance to insulin. In the case of Type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks these beta cells, leading to their destruction. In Type 2 diabetes, the body cells become resistant to insulin, meaning that although insulin is present in the bloodstream, cells do not respond to it appropriately. This resistance is often associated with chronic inflammation and is considered by many scientists to be an autoimmune disease. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as being overweight and having high blood pressure can increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
When cells cannot utilize glucose due to the lack of or resistance to insulin, the body resorts to using alternative energy sources like amino acids and fats. This switch to fat metabolism results in the production of ketone bodies, and if they are produced in excess, it can cause ketonemia and ketonuria, leading to diabetic ketosis and ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis is characterized by a decrease in blood plasma pH, leading to symptoms like frequent urination and excessive thirst. Furthermore, the high glucose concentration in the blood raises osmotic pressure, contributing to dehydration.
Preventative measures and treatments include lifestyle changes such as adopting a low carbohydrate diet and regular exercise, as well as medications that can help control blood sugar levels by either providing insulin or by making the body's cells more receptive to insulin.