Glossary
Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM), also known as Type 2 Diabetes, is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by the body's resistance to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar, or a relative lack of insulin leading to high blood sugar levels. This condition is one of the most common forms of diabetes, affecting millions of people worldwide.NIDDM is a complex disease that develops over time, often beginning with a stage known as prediabetes. During this stage, blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes. If not properly managed, prediabetes can progress to NIDDM, where the body's cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, or the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin to maintain a normal blood glucose level.
The exact cause of NIDDM is not fully understood, but it is known to be associated with several risk factors. These include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, aging, a family history of diabetes, a history of gestational diabetes, and certain ethnic backgrounds. Obesity is a major risk factor for NIDDM, as excess fat makes it harder for the body to use insulin properly. Physical inactivity further exacerbates this problem, as regular exercise helps control weight, uses glucose as energy, and makes cells more sensitive to insulin. Aging also increases the risk of NIDDM, as the body's ability to metabolize sugar tends to decrease with age.NIDDM is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can lead to a number of complications. These include heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye problems, and nerve damage. It can also lead to complications during pregnancy and an increased risk of death.
Diagnosis of NIDDM is typically based on blood tests that measure blood sugar levels. These may include a fasting plasma glucose test, an oral glucose tolerance test, or a glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test. Management of NIDDM primarily involves lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes include a healthy diet, regular physical activity, weight loss, and smoking cessation. Medications may be used to improve insulin sensitivity, increase insulin production, or decrease glucose production. In some cases, insulin injections may be necessary. Education is a key component of NIDDM management. Patients must learn to monitor their blood sugar levels, understand the importance of regular check-ups, and recognize the signs and symptoms of high and low blood sugar. They must also learn how to manage their condition through diet, exercise, and medication.
In conclusion, Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels due to the body's resistance to insulin or a relative lack of insulin. It is associated with several risk factors, including obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, aging, and certain genetic factors. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Management of NIDDM involves lifestyle changes, medication, and patient education.