The causes and effects of diabetes differ with the type of diabetes diagnosed. There are currently three types of diabetes as well as several subgroups. Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) is called type 1 diabetes and is characterized by insulin deficiency. Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), also called adult onset diabetes, is known as type 2. A rare form amongst women is gestational diabetes, type 3 diabetes, characterized by the development of the disease during pregnancy. There also exist very rare forms diabetes mellitus (DM) including latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA), maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY), and neonatal diabetes mellitus (NDM).
Causes and Effects of Diabetes – Type 1 (IDDM)
IDDM (includes LADA) is an organ specific autoimmune disorder of the pancreas. Beta cells in the pancreas are responsible for producing insulin however in IDDM patients the beta cells are attacked by autoantibodies, ultimately destroying them. The result is insulin deficiency resulting in hyperglycemia. Genetic research has shown that individuals with these particular autoantibodies are at an increased risk of developing IDDM, however it is not guaranteed. The central effect of IDDM is hyperglycemia that in turn leads to severe complications. In an attempt to flush the body of sugar, the kidneys create more urine, creating thirst and an imbalance of fluids, leading to ketoacidosis. Ketoacidosis occurs when cells have no access to glucose and the body begins to breakdown fat reserves. Gum disease and dry skin, due to excessive urination, are vulnerable to infection caused by bacteria and fungus that feed on excess glucose. Infection is particularly common in the lower extremities. Retinopathy is often one of the first complications reported, causing progressive damage to the retina. Neuropathy (damage to the nerves) is also common as well as damage to blood vessels. Organ failure is the most severe complication and is the result of long periods of poor blood glucose control. Risk of heart, liver, and renal failure are associated with diabetes.
Causes and Effects of Diabetes – Type 2 (NIDDM)
Type 2 diabetes is caused by a resistance to insulin and/or insulin deficiency. The exact reasons for resistance and deficiency are still unknown although obesity, age, pre-diabetes, fat distribution on the abdomen, and gestational diabetes have all been linked as a factors. As in IDDM, glucose builds up in the blood leading to hyperglycemia and the same complications as IDDM. Increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease has also been linked to type 2 diabetes.
The exact cause of gestational diabetes is unknown although research points to hormones released by the placenta, causing a rise in blood sugar. Effects include jaundice, hypoglycemia, preterm birth, and excessive birth weight.
