This Blog reveals Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar due to defects in insulin secretion, action, or both. It was first described in ancient times, with modern treatment revolutionized by the discovery of insulin in 1921 by Frederick Banting and Charles Best, who later received the Nobel Prize in 1923. According to ICMR, India has one of the highest burdens of diabetes globally. While incurable, it can be controlled through medication, diet, lifestyle changes, and traditional remedies including Ayurveda.
Diabetes Mellitus: A Complete Guide
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Comprehensive blog on Diabetes Mellitus: definition, etiology, types, symptoms, diagnosis, complications, and treatments (allopathic, homeopathic, Ayurvedic). Includes ICMR prevalence data, Nobel Prize history, and ancient Ayurvedic perspectives.
Keywords
Diabetes mellitus, insulin discovery, Banting Nobel Prize, ICMR diabetes prevalence India, diabetic coma, Ayurvedic Madhumeha, Charaka Sushruta diabetes, allopathic treatment, homeopathic remedies, Ayurvedic medicine for diabetes
Definition
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease where the body cannot properly regulate blood glucose due to insufficient insulin production or ineffective insulin action.
Etiology (Causes)
Alt Text Glucometer to measure the blood sugar by stips
– Genetic predisposition
– Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells (Type 1)
– Insulin resistance linked to obesity and sedentary lifestyle (Type 2)
– Secondary causes: pancreatic disease, hormonal disorders, certain drugs
Types of Diabetes
– Type 1 Diabetes: Autoimmune, usually in children/young adults
– Type 2 Diabetes: Lifestyle-related, most common form
– Gestational Diabetes: Occurs during pregnancy
– Other specific types: Genetic defects, pancreatic disease
Historical Discovery
– Ancient physicians like Charaka and Sushruta described diabetes as Madhumeha (honey-like urine).
– Modern discovery: Insulin isolated in 1921 by Frederick Banting and Charles Best.
– Nobel Prize 1923 awarded to Banting and J.J.R. Macleod for insulin discovery.
Clinical Features
Symptoms
– Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
– Frequent urination (polyuria)
– Increased hunger (polyphagia)
– Fatigue, weight loss, blurred vision
external link ICMR Guidlines for management of type 2 diabetes 2018 (PDF)
Signs
– High blood sugar levels
– Sugar in urine
– Slow wound healing
– Recurrent infections
Prevalence in India (ICMR Data)
The ICMR-INDIAB study shows diabetes is rapidly increasing in India due to urbanization and lifestyle changes. Millions are affected, making India one of the global diabetes capitals.
❓ Why Incurable but Controllable
– Incurable: Permanent loss of beta-cell function or chronic insulin resistance.
– Controllable: Through medication, insulin therapy, diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
Diagnosis & Tests
– Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS)
– Postprandial Blood Sugar (PPBS)
– HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin)
– Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)
– Urine sugar test
Diabetic Coma
Occurs due to severe hyperglycemia (diabetic ketoacidosis) or hypoglycemia. Symptoms include confusion, unconsciousness, fruity breath odor, and rapid breathing.
Complications
– Cardiovascular disease
– Kidney failure (diabetic nephropathy)
– Eye damage (retinopathy)
– Nerve damage (neuropathy)
– Foot ulcers, amputations
Treatment & Management
Allopathic
– Insulin injections (Type 1)
– Oral hypoglycemic drugs (Type 2)
– Lifestyle modification (diet, exercise)
Homeopathic Remedies
– Remedies like Syzygium jambolanum and Phosphoric acid are used, but scientific evidence is limited.
Ayurvedic Medicine
– Known as Madhumeha in Ayurveda
– Charaka & Sushruta described urine tests with ants and honey-like urine color.
– Treatments included:
– Herbs: Gudmar (Gymnema sylvestre), Neem, Turmeric
– Diet: Avoiding heavy, sweet foods; promoting barley, bitter gourd
– Lifestyle: Yoga, meditation, balance of doshas
Ancient Ayurvedic Perspective
– Charaka Samhita: Urine examined with ants to detect sweetness.
– Sushruta Samhita: Urine described as honey-colored.
– Both emphasized dietary control, herbal remedies, and lifestyle discipline for managing Madhumeha.
References
– ICMR-INDIAB Study on Diabetes in India
– Nature Milestones in Diabetes – Insulin discovery
– History of Diabetes – Insulin discovery
– Ayurveda perspective on Madhumeha
⚠️ Disclaimer
This blog is for educational purposes only. It does not replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting or changing treatment.
This blog blends modern science, Nobel Prize history, ICMR data, and Ayurvedic wisdom into one accessible guide. Would you like me to also prepare a schema markup template for SEO (FAQ, HowTo, MedicalCondition) so your WordPress blog ranks higher?
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