IDDM

From Food & Medicine Encyclopedia

IDDM or Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. It is also known as Type 1 diabetes.

Overview[edit]

Insulin is a hormone needed to allow sugar (glucose) to enter cells to produce energy. The exact cause of IDDM is unknown. However, it's believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The condition usually appears in children and young adults, but it can develop at any age.

Symptoms[edit]

The symptoms of IDDM can include:

  • Increased thirst and frequent urination
  • Extreme hunger
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores

Causes[edit]

The exact cause of IDDM is unknown. It's believed to be an autoimmune condition, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for IDDM involves managing blood sugar levels with insulin, diet, and lifestyle to prevent complications.

See Also[edit]

References[edit]

<references />

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Content may be inaccurate or outdated and should not be used for diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for medical decisions. Verify information with trusted sources such as CDC.gov and NIH.gov. By using this site, you agree that WikiMD is not liable for any outcomes related to its content. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.