Differential Diagnosis I: Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by the pancreas not producing enough insulin. In this condition, glucose needs insulin to help it enter the cells to be used for energy. Since cells cannot use glucose, the blood glucose levels become extremely high. Typically occurs in adolescents and young adults.
Rationale: The onset for type 1 diabetes is primarily for non-obese, adolescents or children. When symptoms start to appear, patient may lose weight despite excessive eating and drinking. Common for excessive urination, especially nocturnal. The patient will appear lethargic, fatigued, and confused. Tachycardia and Kussmaul Breathing is common. The patient’s symptoms and high blood glucose levels make this an appropriate differential diagnosis(McCance & Huether, 2014).
Differential Diagnosis II: Anemia
Anemia is a condition where the body is lacking healthy red blood cells which impairs the amount of oxygen the tissues receive. Clinical manifestations of anemia are fatigue, low energy levels, and dizziness.
Rationale: Those who are anemic will experience tachycardia, dizziness, increased respiratory rate, and fatigue as a result of compensations for tissue hypoxia. This rational is appropriate because the clinical manifestations present in anemia could be considered for a differential diagnosis (McCance & Huether, 2014).
Differential Diagnosis III: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Type 2 Diabetes usually manifests later in life as a result of lifestyle habits. In this condition, the pancreas is able to produce insulin but the insulin is not effective at getting the glucose into the cells. This leaves glucose in the blood stream, causing high blood glucose levels.
Rationale: The onset of type 2 diabetes usually occurs later in adulthood as a result of obesity and sedentary lifestyle but can affect young adults. Those affected may notice mood swings, excessive eating and drinking, and numbness or tingling in the extremities. Typically accompanies other co-morbid conditions. This condition is an appropriate differential diagnosis due to the clinical manifestations and high blood glucose levels (McCance & Huether, 2014).