The Pathophysiology of Diabetes Mellitus.

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1. Discuss the pathophysiology of Diabetes Mellitus. The pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus in is related to the insulin hormone. Insulin is secreted by cells in the pancreas and is responsible for regulating the level of glucose in the bloodstream. It also aids the body in breaking down the glucose to be used as energy. When someone suffers from diabetes, however, the body does not break down the glucose in the blood as a result of abnormal insulin metabolism. When there are elevated levels of glucose in the blood, it is known as hyperglycemia. If the levels continue to remain high over an extended period of time, damage can be done to the kidneys, cardiovascular systems; you can get eye disorders, or even cause nerve damage. When the glucose levels are low in one’s body, it is called hypoglycemia. A person begins to feel very jittery, and possibly dizzy. If that occurs over a period of time, the person can possibly faint. Diabetes mellitus occurs in three different forms - type 1, type 2, and gestational. 2. Compare and contrast the possible causes of Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 Diabetes formerly called juvenile onset diabetes occurs typically before the age of 20, but now at any age anyone can be diagnosed with type 1. Individuals with type 1 diabetes are usually thin, go to the bathroom a lot to urinate, and are always hungry. The cause of Type 1 Diabetes is that the pancreas, which is the organ that secretes insulin, is destroyed by auto antibodies, which is why people with Type 1 Diabetes always need insulin, either to be injected or through an insulin pump. When glucose cannot enter the cells, it builds up in the blood causing the body's cells to starve to death. People with type 1 diabetes mus... ... middle of paper ... ...so discuss making a exercise plan that will work for the patient, and will not cause him/her any pain. If all of the correct measures are taken, and the patient is taking care of themselves, they can prevent more serious complications from occurring. They must know that they are serious complications from one not taking care of themselves, or living a unhealthy life style. It does involve a lifelong commitment to change. Medication will help, but one must also be willing to change. The nurse must make sure the patient understands what the signs and symptoms are for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. They must be advised when to seek medical help or to call the doctor if they blood sugar levels either get too high or too low. They must also know to avoid any sugary drinks, and substitute sugar or sweetener, while also at the same time monitoring their salt intake.

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