Question

Explain the diseases occurring in:

Pancreas

Answer 1

The pancreas regulates the blood glucose level mainly through the hormones insulin and glucagon. Abnormal secretion of insulin causes the following diseases:

1. Diabetes mellitus or hyperglycaemia: This condition is caused by insufficient secretion of insulin by the beta cells of the islets of Langerhans. As a result, the blood glucose level rises and glucose may appear in the urine. The main symptoms include excessive thirst, tiredness, loss of weight and blurred vision. Long-term complications may include heart disease, eye problems, nerve damage and kidney damage.
2. Hypoglycaemia: This condition is caused by excessive secretion of insulin. The blood glucose level falls below normal. The symptoms include sudden hunger, sweating, double vision and weakness. In severe cases, it may lead to coma or death. The person may be given a sweet food item to raise the blood glucose level quickly.