Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is a prevalent condition, particularly affecting adults as they reach middle age or older. This form of diabetes is characterized by the pancreas’s reduced ability to produce sufficient insulin and the body’s increasing resistance to the insulin it does produce.
Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus often present with a range of noticeable symptoms, which may include:
- Persistent and excessive thirst or hunger
- Frequent urination, often in large volumes
- Unexplained and rapid weight loss
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Elevated blood glucose levels
- Potential development of hyperosmolar syndrome, a serious condition resulting from very high blood sugar
To confirm a suspected diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, healthcare professionals rely on specific diagnostic tests. Common procedures include the Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) test and the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT). These tests help to accurately measure blood glucose levels and assess the body’s ability to process sugar.
The ICD-10 code E11.9 is specifically used when a patient has been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus but is not currently experiencing any complications associated with the condition. It’s important to note that this diagnosis code is categorized as a Questionable Admission Code. In most cases, using E11.9 as the primary diagnosis is not considered a sufficient justification for admitting a patient to acute hospital care, as the patient is, by definition, not suffering from acute complications of their diabetes.
Management and treatment for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without complications typically involve lifestyle modifications and medication. Dietary changes are crucial, emphasizing a reduction in trans fats, saturated fats, cholesterol, and overall calorie intake. Pharmacological interventions often include Metformin, a commonly prescribed medication to help manage blood sugar levels.
In some instances, insulin therapy may be necessary. This becomes relevant when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to overcome the body’s insulin resistance. Insulin injections or other forms of insulin delivery help to regulate blood glucose levels and prevent the accumulation of glucose in the bloodstream, thereby managing the diabetes effectively.
