The Background Physiology And Pathophysiology Of Type II...

Analysis of the Background Physiology and Pathophysiology of Type II Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease Layla Niavarani University of Oklahoma Analysis of the Background Physiology and Pathophysiology of Type II Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary (â€Å"Physiology,† n.d.), physiology is defined as a branch of biology that deals with the functions and activities of life or of living matter and of the physical and chemical phenomena observed. Compared to physiology, pathophysiology is a much more specific section of physiology that deals specifically with the functional changes that accompany a particular syndrome or disease (â€Å"Pathophysiology,† n.d.). Braun and Anderson (2011) discuss that†¦show more content†¦In a person diagnosed with CVD, the presence of this buildup causes many malfunctions stemming from blood flow issues with regard to how the body normally functions. Unlike type I diabetes, no destruction of the pancreas occurs in T2DM; instead, according to Braun and Anderson (2011), insulin resistance (decreased sensitivity to insulin in metabolic tissues) results in insufficient insulin usage. Additionally, as glucose is metabolized in the body, individuals suffering from T2DM exhibit reduced insulin secretion. This leads to reactions from the body such as beta cells not adequately responding to circulating blood glucose levels, the liver releasing glycogen, glucagon suppressing insulin production, and insulin receptors across the body becoming unresponsive – thus leading to insulin resistance in the tissues (Braun Anderson, 2011). While there is no reduction in beta cells, there is an increase in lipid levels which may lead to sclerosis and impaired pancreatic function due to increased fat deposits in the pancreas; this will ultimately result in suboptimal metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates (Braun Anderson, 2011). T2DM d oes not exhibit a specific set of clinical manifestations and is therefore often difficult to diagnose immediately; Braun and Anderson (2011) state that when these manifestations do appear, they are typically exhibited alongside other complications such as visual changes, coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular