Diabetes: Pathophysiology and Treatment

Diabetes or diabetes mellitus is a group of disorders affecting the human body, characterized by high levels of blood sugar for long periods of time. If untreated, it can cause complications, which may be acute such as hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state or diabetic ketoacidosis, or serious long-term complications like chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, damage to the eyes, stroke, etc. Insulin is the hormone that is responsible for the uptake of glucose from blood and its transfer throughout the cells of the body. Any deficiency of insulin or any insensitivity of insulin receptors can cause diabetes mellitus. There is no known cure of this disease but it can be managed by regulating the blood sugar levels through regular exercise, weight loss, healthy diet and through the right use of medications, such as insulin injections and oral medications. Certain factors that tend to elevate the negative effects of diabetes such as elevated cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, etc. need to be managed. Specialized footwear is used to prevent ulceration or re-ulceration. This book unfolds the innovative aspects of the pathophysiology and treatment of diabetes, which will be crucial for the progress of this field in the future. It is a resource guide for experts as well as students.