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Blood glucose levels are
normally controlled very well by insulin. Insulin is a hormone that
is made by the pancreas in order to lower blood glucose levels. When
we eat food, the blood glucose levels normally rise and insulin is then
released from the pancreas so that the glucose levels can be stabilized.
When you have diabetes mellitus,
these actions do not happen as they are suppose to. There is a lack
of insulin production by the pancreas and the result is hyperglycemia,
or too much sugar in the blood. This is a chronic medical condition
that usually lasts for a persons entire life. Although it can last a
lifetime, it can also be controlled.
It is important to keep diabetes
mellitus under control because over time, the disease can lead to damage
of the small blood vessels and in turn can cause blindness, kidney failure,
and nerve damage.
Diabetes is also an important
factor in accelerating the hardening and narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis),
leading to strokes, coronary heart disease, and other large blood vessel
diseases.
To keep diabetes mellitus
under control, you will need to follow your doctors orders just as they
are prescribed. This will include a great deal of determination on your
part. Once you have been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, you will
need to make this one the most important aspects of your life. Even
though it can be looked at as a life sentence, doing everything that
you can in order to keep it under control can greatly increase your
chances of having a longer life.