Final answer:
Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high blood sugar levels due to problems with insulin production or use. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease, while type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance and genetic and environmental factors. Common symptoms include excessive urination, thirst, and hunger.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is Diabetes Mellitus?
Diabetes mellitus is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period due to either the pancreas not producing enough insulin or the cells of the body not responding properly to the insulin produced.
Underlying Metabolic Disorder
The underlying metabolic disorder in diabetes involves dysfunction in insulin production, secretion, and the target cells' responsiveness to insulin. This results in high levels of glucose in the blood.
Characteristic of All Forms of Diabetes Mellitus
The common characteristic of all forms of diabetes mellitus is hyperglycemia, which is an elevated blood glucose level.
Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. In type 2 diabetes, there is a combination of insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion, influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes
Several factors can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, including obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and poor diet.
Common Symptoms of Diabetes
Three common symptoms of diabetes include excessive urination, excessive thirst, and excessive hunger.