Diabetes Mellitus (DM) – Understanding Diabetes

Expert Information by Dr. Vikas Kaushik – Diabetes & Metabolic Disease Specialist

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic condition in which blood glucose (sugar) levels remain higher than normal. If not properly managed, diabetes can gradually damage blood vessels and vital organs, leading to long-term complications affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, brain, and feet.

In India, nearly 8% of the population is affected by diabetes, and the number is rapidly increasing due to lifestyle changes, poor diet, and rising obesity levels.

Early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and structured treatment can prevent long-term complications. At Diabetes Care Clinic – Dr. Vikas Kaushik, patients receive personalized diabetes management aimed at long-term health and improved quality of life.

Types of Diabetes Mellitus

Recognize the Type. Choose the Right Treatment.

1. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM)

Type 1 diabetes accounts for less than 5% of all diabetes cases. It is more common in children and young adults, but can appear at any age.

Characteristics

  • Sudden onset

  • Very high blood sugar

  • Significant symptoms

Common Symptoms

  • Polyuria – frequent urination

  • Polydipsia – excessive thirst

  • Polyphagia – increased hunger

  • Unexplained weight loss

Why Type 1 Occurs?

The body stops producing insulin because the pancreatic beta cells are destroyed.

Treatment

Patients with T1DM must take insulin for survival.
Modern insulin therapy, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), and lifestyle counseling help maintain stable sugar levels.

2. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM)

Type 2 diabetes represents over 95% of all diabetes cases and typically affects adults above 40 years. However, due to increasing obesity and sedentary lifestyle, younger individuals are also developing T2DM.

Why Type 2 Occurs?

T2DM is caused by:

  • Insulin resistance – the body doesn’t use insulin effectively

  • Relative insulin deficiency – the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin

Symptoms

Often mild or even absent, which is why many people remain undiagnosed for years.

Treatment Approach at Dr. Vikas Kaushik’s Clinic

  • Blood sugar control through diet & exercise

  • Weight management

  • Oral medications to improve insulin action

  • Insulin therapy (if needed in advanced cases)

  • Continuous lifestyle guidance

Dr. Kaushik focuses on diabetes remission, especially in early-stage Type 2 diabetes.

3. Gestational Diabetes (Diabetes During Pregnancy)

Gestational diabetes is diagnosed for the first time during pregnancy and usually resolves after delivery.

Key Points

  • Affects about 4% of pregnancies

  • Usually does not produce noticeable symptoms

  • Requires strict monitoring

  • Insulin may be needed to maintain safe sugar levels

  • Women with gestational diabetes have a higher lifetime risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes

Why Early Care Is Important?

  • Ensures healthy pregnancy

  • Protects mother and baby from complications

  • Prevents future diabetes risk