Final answer:
Characterizing symptoms of diabetes mellitus include unexplained weight loss, excessive thirst, and tingling or numbness in the extremities, which are signs of high blood sugar levels and its biological impacts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The signs and symptoms that characterize diabetes mellitus include unexplained weight loss, excessive thirst, and tingling or numbness in the hands or feet. These symptoms are indicative of high blood glucose levels and the body’s response to it. Specifically, excessive thirst (polydipsia) and frequent urination (polyuria) are direct consequences of the kidneys working to filter and dilute high glucose levels in the blood. Unexplained weight loss can occur because the cells of the body are not able to efficiently utilize glucose for energy due to insulin resistance or lack of insulin. Tingling or numbness in the extremities, known as diabetic neuropathy, is the most common complication of diabetes, occurring due to high blood glucose levels over time damaging nerves. Symptoms such as fever and loss of appetite are not typically associated with diabetes mellitus, while abdominal pain could be associated, particularly in type 1 diabetes.