Skip to main content

Search
Kids Health

Definition: Diabetes Mellitus

|

Diabetes Mellitus

( Diabetes mellitus )

Diabetes mellitus (sometimes called "sugar diabetes") is a condition that occurs when the body can't use glucose (a type of sugar) normally. Glucose is the main source of energy for the body's cells. The levels of glucose in the blood are controlled by a hormone called insulin, which is made by the pancreas. Insulin helps glucose enter the cells.

In diabetes, the pancreas does not make enough insulin ( type 1 diabetes ) or the body can't respond normally to the insulin that is made ( type 2 diabetes ). This causes glucose levels in the blood to rise, leading to symptoms such as increased urination, extreme thirst, and unexplained weight loss.

Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

© 1995-2009 The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth. All rights reserved.

Should your child see a doctor?

Find out by selecting your child’s symptom or health condition in the list below:

Spring 2013: Good Growing Newsletter

In This Issue

  • You Are a Key Player on Your Child’s Healthcare Team
  • Bad Weather? Bring the Action Indoors!
  • Coping with a Crying Baby

Download Spring 2013 (PDF)

Videos

Stories from the Heart: A Mother’s Day Tribute 2013 0:57:30Expand
4.27.13

Watch heartwarming stories about mothers and patients and learn more about the amazing work done by the doctors and nurses at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Presented by Safeway. Consider making a donation to Seattle Children’s in honor of a woman you know, love or admire at Seattlechildrens.org/mothersday. Aired Saturday, April 27, 2013, at 7 p.m. on KOMO.

Play Video
What Is IBD, Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis? 0:03:53Expand
4.26.13

In this video series, we address questions commonly asked by parents of children with IBD.

Play Video
How to Help Your Child Adjust to School After a Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis 0:06:38Expand
4.26.13

In this video series, we address questions commonly asked by parents of children with IBD.

Play Video