Clinical Manifestations of Diabetes Mellitus

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 104 views

The Experience of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Controlling Blood Sugar Levels Independently in the City of Medan

Introduction

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic health condition that affects the body's ability to produce and use insulin, requiring long-term treatment and management of blood sugar levels. In the city of Medan, the experience of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in controlling blood sugar levels is diverse, with each individual facing unique challenges. This study aims to explore the experience of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in controlling blood sugar levels independently in Medan, using a descriptive phenomenological approach.

Methodology

This study involved 10 participants diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus and has undergone this disease for a minimum of three years. Participants were chosen by purposive sampling technique at the University of North Sumatra Hospital, and the research took place between March 2021 and September 2021. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using the Collazzi method.

Results

The results of the analysis revealed nine main themes that reflect the patient's experience in managing their diabetes mellitus:

Clinical Manifestations of Diabetes Mellitus

Patients often experience physical symptoms related to diabetes, such as fatigue, weight loss, and vision problems. These symptoms can be a significant challenge for patients, making it difficult for them to manage their blood sugar levels effectively.

Fatigue and Weight Loss

Many patients reported experiencing fatigue and weight loss as a result of their diabetes. This can be attributed to the body's inability to produce and use insulin effectively, leading to a decrease in energy levels and weight loss.

Experiencing Obstacles to Regulate Eating Patterns

Many patients have difficulty in regulating healthy and balanced diet, often caused by old habits and unhealthy food choices. This can lead to a decrease in blood sugar control, making it challenging for patients to manage their diabetes effectively.

The Importance of Healthy Eating

Healthy eating is crucial for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A balanced diet can help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall health.

Stigma of Drugs and Food

There is a negative perception of diabetes drugs, which makes some patients reluctant to comply with the recommended treatment. This stigma can lead to a decrease in adherence to treatment, making it challenging for patients to manage their diabetes effectively.

Breaking the Stigma

Breaking the stigma surrounding diabetes drugs and food is essential for patients to manage their diabetes effectively. Education and awareness can help patients understand the importance of treatment and healthy eating.

The Tendency to Use DM Drugs

Patients show varied drug use patterns, where some of them tend to be inconsistent in taking drugs. This can lead to a decrease in blood sugar control, making it challenging for patients to manage their diabetes effectively.

Consistency is Key

Consistency is crucial when it comes to taking diabetes medications. Patients should strive to take their medications as prescribed to manage their blood sugar levels effectively.

Physical Training/Exercise Behavior DM Patients

Physical activity is one important aspect in diabetes management, but some patients are less committed to exercising regularly. This can lead to a decrease in blood sugar control, making it challenging for patients to manage their diabetes effectively.

The Importance of Exercise

Exercise is essential for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Regular physical activity can help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce the risk of complications, and improve overall health.

Those Who Get Adequate Information Tend to be Better in Controlling Blood Sugar Levels

Patients who receive adequate information tend to be better in controlling blood sugar levels. Education and awareness can help patients understand the importance of treatment and healthy eating.

The Importance of Education

Education is crucial for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Patients should strive to understand their condition, treatment options, and healthy eating habits to manage their diabetes effectively.

Get Support from the Family

Emotional and practical support from family members is very instrumental in the motivation of patients to follow the treatment and healthy lifestyle. This support can help patients manage their diabetes effectively.

The Importance of Family Support

Family support is essential for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Patients should strive to involve their family members in their treatment and healthy eating habits to manage their diabetes effectively.

Conclusion

The management of diabetes mellitus in patients tends to decrease from diagnosis for a long period of time. Stress is also identified as one of the factors that contribute to the decline in the effectiveness of diabetes management. This shows the importance of psychological and social support, as well as sustainable education in helping patients manage their diabetes better. Communities and medical personnel need to work together to create an environment that supports patients in living a healthier and more productive life.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus should strive to understand their condition, treatment options, and healthy eating habits to manage their diabetes effectively.
Family members should provide emotional and practical support to patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to help them manage their condition effectively.
Healthcare providers should provide patients with adequate information and education to help them manage their diabetes effectively.
Communities and medical personnel should work together to create an environment that supports patients in living a healthier and more productive life.

By following these recommendations, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus can manage their condition effectively, reduce the risk of complications, and improve their overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Q: What is type 2 diabetes mellitus?

A: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic health condition that affects the body's ability to produce and use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

Q: What are the symptoms of type 2 diabetes mellitus?

A: The symptoms of type 2 diabetes mellitus can include fatigue, weight loss, vision problems, and increased thirst and urination.

Q: How is type 2 diabetes mellitus diagnosed?

A: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests, including blood sugar tests and urine tests.

Q: What are the risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus?

A: The risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus include family history, obesity, physical inactivity, and a diet high in sugar and saturated fats.

Q: How can type 2 diabetes mellitus be managed?

A: Type 2 diabetes mellitus can be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and stress management, as well as medication and insulin therapy.

Q: What is the importance of blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes mellitus?

A: Blood sugar control is crucial in type 2 diabetes mellitus, as high blood sugar levels can lead to complications such as nerve damage, kidney damage, and vision problems.

Q: How can patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus prevent complications?

A: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus can prevent complications by maintaining good blood sugar control, following a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress.

Q: What is the role of family support in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus?

A: Family support is essential in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus, as it can provide emotional and practical support to patients, helping them to adhere to treatment and make lifestyle changes.

Q: How can healthcare providers support patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus?

A: Healthcare providers can support patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus by providing education and support, helping them to develop a treatment plan, and monitoring their progress.

Q: What are the benefits of early detection and treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus?

A: Early detection and treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus can help to prevent complications, improve blood sugar control, and reduce the risk of long-term health problems.

Q: How can patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus stay motivated to manage their condition?

A: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus can stay motivated by setting realistic goals, tracking their progress, and finding support from family and friends.

Q: What are the latest developments in type 2 diabetes mellitus research?

A: The latest developments in type 2 diabetes mellitus research include the development of new medications and treatments, as well as a greater understanding of the role of lifestyle factors in managing the condition.

Q: How can patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments?

A: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus can stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments by attending educational programs, reading reputable health websites, and consulting with their healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive approach to management. By understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and management options, patients can take control of their condition and reduce the risk of complications. Healthcare providers, family members, and patients themselves can work together to develop a treatment plan that meets the individual needs of each patient.