|
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic and currently incurable condition in which the body is unable to regulate the glucose (sugar) levels in the blood. Diabetes is a complex condition that can cause many other related illnesses. Diabetics need to pay special attention to their diets and their lifestyle in order to prevent further complications.
|
|
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic and currently incurable condition in which too much glucose (sugar) is present in the blood. This arises because the body cannot use the glucose properly, either because of a lack of the hormone insulin or because the insulin available does not work effectively. Not only is excess sugar found in the blood but it may appear in the urine too. The name diabetes mellitus derives from the Greek word 'diabetes' meaning siphon - to pass through, and 'mellitus,' the Latin for honeyed or sweet. It refers to a major symptom of diabetes, sugar in the urine, and is a far more acceptable name than the one it was known by in the 17th Century - when it was called the 'pissing evil.' Diabetes has been a recognised condition for over 3,500 years. About 2,000 years ago, it's said that Arataeus of Cappadocia described diabetes as 'a melting down of the flesh and limbs into urine.' This reflected the weight loss and excess passing of urine that occurs in acute, undiagnosed diabetes.
|
|
|
|
