Diabetes mellitus

Updated: 2023-03-07

Overview

Some types of diabetes mellitus are long-term diseases. These include type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Other diabetes conditions may go away with lifestyle changes or treatment. These include prediabetes and gestational diabetes. All forms of diabetes mellitus can lead to high blood sugar. High blood sugar can cause serious health problems.

Symptoms

Symptoms of type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes can include more thirst than usual and frequent urination. A person also might lose weight without trying or feel weak. With type 1 diabetes, symptoms are more likely to start quickly and be more severe. Some people with prediabetes, gestational diabetes or type 2 diabetes might not have symptoms.

Treatments

Treatment for diabetes mellitus depends on the type of the disease a person has. Treatment may include checking blood sugar a certain number of times each day. Some people also need to take insulin or other medicines. It's important for everyone with diabetes to eat nutritious foods, get regular exercise and stay at a healthy weight.