Pathophysiology is the study of the changes seen in normal mechanical, physical, and biochemical functions that are either caused by a disease or the result of an abnormal syndrome. The pathophysiology of a given disease or syndrome describes its causes, symptoms and effects.

The pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus is a bit complicated. Diabetes mellitus, most commonly known only as diabetes, is a syndrome of disordered metabolism, usually due to a combination of hereditary and environmental causes, resulting in abnormally high blood sugar levels called hyperglycemia. There are three primary types of diabetes mellitus: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. Each is with different behaviors and triggers but all are related and characterized by shared symptoms such as hyperglycemia.

Gestational diabetes is one of the three main types. This occurs during pregnancy and usually goes away after the baby is born. Women suffering from gestational diabetes while pregnant have an increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. There are also other risks associated with gestational diabetes for both the infant and mother such as unstable blood sugar at birth, obesity later in life and macromasia or the condition known as "fat baby".

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease. In Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas produces insulin but the body cannot react, respond or process it properly.

Type 1 diabetes is the last type which results when the pancreas loses its ability to produce insulin. It is considered an autoimmune disorder because the body’s own immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.

Symptoms of diabetes include excess thirst and hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, irritability, and unexplained weight loss. Diabetes can cause serious long term physical effects if not treated properly. Early detection is important. Treatment for diabetes can include changes to diet and lifestyle paired with medications, may it be insulin injections or oral insulin medications, depending on the type diagnosed.

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