Pathophysiology refers to the study of the disordered physiological processes that lead to disease or injury. An excellent example of pathophysiology is diabetes mellitus.
In diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin (Type 1 diabetes) or does not effectively use the insulin it produces (Type 2 diabetes). This disruption in insulin function results in high blood sugar levels, which can lead to various complications such as nerve damage, kidney failure, and cardiovascular diseases.
Understanding the pathophysiology of diabetes helps healthcare providers to identify potential complications early, develop treatment plans, and educate patients on managing their condition. For instance, the knowledge that high glucose levels can damage blood vessels or nerves pushes the focus on controlling blood sugar levels to prevent long-term complications.