DIABETES MELLITUS

Diabetes mellitus we are referring to here is the type 2 diabetes mellitus, that is also called as non-insulin dependent DM or adult onset DM. It accounts for about 80% cases of DM, it is mainly seen in older adults, individuals over 35-40 years of age. Sometimes, type 2 DM can develop in young people too, this is called as MODY (maturity onset diabetes of young).

Mechanism

In type 2 DM, the insulin production from beta cells of islets of Langerhans (present in pancreas) is normal, the problem here is in the cells of muscles and fats. These don’t take up the insulin properly for use, the cells don’t utilize the insulin provided to them, this is called insulin resistance. Initially, the insulin is produced excessively, to overcome resistance offered by the cells, but after a while it reduces the production of insulin, which leads to excess sugar level in the blood (hyperglycemia). Genetic factors play a major role in type 2 DM.

Other Risk Factors

• Sedentary lifestyles
• More than 40 years of age
• Overweight (obesity)
• Eating highly processed food
• Unhealthy diet
• High sugary foods and drinks taken on a regular basis
• Excessive smoking and alcohol intake
• Gestational diabetes

Clinical Features

• Polyuria – frequent urination due to excessive glucose level in blood
• Polydipsia – due to increased frequency of urination, leads to excessive thirst
• Polyphagia – because the glucose is taken up by the cells and remains in the blood, it leads to excessive hunger
• Weight loss – because the glucose is not taken up by the cells for energy, it breaks down the muscles and fat for energy, leading to weight loss
• Fatigue – inadequate glucose utilization leads to poor energy in the body, resulting in fatigue
• Blurred vision – high glucose content can affect the lens of the eyes
• Recurrent infections – due to compromised immune system
• Irritability
• Slow wound healing

Homoeopathic Aspect

Homoeopathic remedies act wonderfully in the treatment of diabetes mellitus along with proper maintenance of diet. The homoeopathic remedies give extra support for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. These remedies given should not be substituted for allopathic medicines that the patient is already taking.

Some Wonderful Homoeopathic Remedies:

• Abroma augusta – Hindi – called olat kambal. It is used when there is excessive loss of flesh, i.e., there is rapid emaciation of the body. Along with this, the patient has thirst for large quantity of water, dryness of mouth, increased urination.
• Cephalandra indica – Hindi – called kundri. Can be given when there is excessive uncontrolled diabetes, burning sensation all over the body, great thirst for large quantity of water, dryness of mouth.
• Gymnema sylvestre – Hindi – called gurmar. Excessive urination, excessive weakness after passing urine is seen here. It helps in reducing blood sugar levels very well, helps the patient to increase weight and bring on a healthy look. Helps to reduce weakness and tiredness, improving both mental and physical health.
• Phosphoric acid – It is given in those individuals who have excessive prostration along with high sugar levels. Can be given for young individuals who suffer from diabetes and who look a lot older than their age. Excessive prostration after profuse urination. The patient is weak both mentally and physically, with numbness and tingling sensation in foot.
• Syzygium jambolanum – Hindi – called jamoon. Can be given when the patient has excessive thirst and excessive urination, helping to reduce blood sugar levels wonderfully. It acts very well in cases of diabetic ulcers.

Some Other Remedies:

• Chionanthus virginica
• Helonias dioica
• Acetic acid
• Phosphorus
• Kali brom
• Picric acid
• Uranium nit