ASSESMENT OF QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS AND DIABETIC POLYNEUROPATHY

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that has a great effect on the quality of life of patients. It is one of the most progressively increasing chronic diseases of the 21st century. Modern medical practice defines the disease as an important risk factor for the development of severe debilitating complications, reduced quality of life. Predominant among the health-related complications reducing the quality of life is diabetic neuropathy. It is a serious and frequent complication of diabetes mellitus, with a chronic progressive course of development, which without adequate treatment can lead to potentially life-threatening complications, significant morbidity and increased mortality among people with diabetes. The aim of the present study was to assess satisfaction and health-related quality of life in individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes and a realized neurological complication. Researched and surveyed during the period November 2022 – April 2023, there are 20 patients, respectively 10 men and 10 women with type 2 diabetes mellitus and a diagnosed complication - diabetic neuropathy. With the help of a questionnaire consisting of 69 questions, divided into 3 groups of previously formulated questions, the patients were surveyed. Medical records were also used. Regarding general health, 80%(8) of men and 80%(8) of women rated it as good. 20%(2) of men and 20%(2) of women rated it as poor. 60% (6) of men and 20% (2) of women have no difficulty in daily walking of more than 1 mile (1.6 km) as a result of the disease and the complication. 40%(4) of women report very limited motor activity as a result of the polyneuropathy. 40%(4) of men and 40%(4) of women reported minor difficulties in motor activity. When asked if they had experienced pain in the last 4 weeks, 40%(4) of men answered that it was mild. 40% (4) of men and 100% (10) of women reported moderate pain, 20% (2) of men reported experiencing very severe pain in the past 4 weeks. Patients with DM and a realized neurological complication are not only physically sick, but also have a lower self-assessment of quality of life, compared to the healthy population.  Diabetes has an effect on patients' quality of life. Pain, discomfort and impaired mobility are among the most common complaints that alter the quality of life.