This is a metabolic disorder in which the patient’s cells cannot use sugar properly. Metabolism is the series of chemical changes in the living body by which life is maintained.

Sugar, meaning glucose, is the source of energy for the body. To utilise glucose properly and extract energy from it, our body needs insulin.

When a patient has Diabetes Mellitus, it means:

• There is less insulin in the body.
• The cells of the body are resistant to insulin.

In diabetics, a heart attack can occur abruptly. A patient can get a ‘silent’ heart attack without pain. Also, diabetes damages the heart so much, that it has been declared as a Major Risk Factor for Heart Diseases.  All  diabetics  should have their electrocardiogram and echocardiogram done at least once every year to check if they have developed any abnormality in their heart.