October 24, 2006

New to Diabetes

This Discussion Forum is for newcomers to diabetes to ask questions, and oldtimers to offer advice.

I would also suggest that anyone who is new to diabetes should read the articles at new to diabetes at DiabetesMonitor.com.

This is the 2nd Discussion Forum dedicated to this subject, and is a continuation of the previous forum on this subject. It was started on October 24, 2006, after what we call a "blogquake" happened -- namely, the software underlying this blog became unstable and shook everybody up!

Notices to our new readers:

1) Inappropriate comments (for example, "I love vitamin Z -- it made my blood sugar miraculously return to normal") will be deleted without warning. However, questions such as "I heard that vitamin Z might miraculously return my blood sugar to normal -- is that possible or a scam?" are fine.

2) Also, the folks who are regular readers and writers about the new diabetes drug Byetta have developed all sorts of strange terms that you'll gradually come to know, including "lizard spit", "gillyspitkins", "lizard of Az", "yellow spit road", "little brother" and "big brother", "hug island", and lots more. I think I'll dedicate a new Discussion Forum soon to all this new lingo...

3) Finally, you can still read many of the earlier comments, and search for information throughout those forums, by using your webbrowser's FIND or SEARCH feature while at the earlier forums, or by searching at the advanced search feature that is at the Diabetes Monitor.

Please review and follow our usual ground rules, at Ground Rules. (To share your thoughts, use the "Comments" link immediately below. Instructions for entering comments may be found at How to Enter Comments.)

Bill the diabetesdoc
info@diabetesmonitor.com

Diabetes.Blog.Com is a blogcompanion to our main website, the Diabetes Monitor, which you can find at http://www.diabetesmonitor.com/


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Posted by Bill the diabetesdoc at 00:00:07 | Permanent Link | Comments (90) |
Comments
1 2
1 - My 11 yr old has just been added to the type 1 family
My question is he went to the hosp with 776 BS level
after 4 days he is out. when we go back to the doc for a follow up what kind of questions should we be asking? ie did his kidneys get hurt? do we need to be concerned with this? how long could he have had type 1 before we found out???? (Comment this)

Written by: Carl/Laura at 2006/11/05 - 00:02:18
2 - Carl/Laura: May I suggest an excellent web site for you? It's www.childrenwithdiabetes.com. You can learn all about diabetes there. Most of the kids are type 1. There are special areas for parents as well as for kids. And many of your fears will be eased. Good luck! You have lots to learn, but Everything Will Be OK! (Comment this)

Written by: Toneylee at 2006/11/05 - 15:23:36
3 - I am having a tough time with just oral medications-- with sugar levels through the day ranging from 130 to 250. I am now on actos, metformin etc. but I am getting a bit worried. Should I go on Byetta? I am 53, walk 3 miles every day, not very strict food control. (Comment this)

Written by: Kamraj at 2006/11/16 - 17:38:13
4 - Kamraj, Glad to hear you are doing your research before starting a new drug. You might want to read the Byetta Basics(frequently asked questions) located to the right in box 16. It might answer some of your questions but remember that the spit is a tool and you will have to do your part too. We can't continue to have poor diet control and expect our numbers to stay low. We also have to learn how to manage stress and in my case pain management is vital. I hope I've helped you in a small way and good luck in which ever way you decide to go. (Comment this)

Written by: geri in Co, T2 in 1998, 10 byetta (7/06), 2.5 2/x glucotrol XL, 1000 mg metformin ER 2/x, Lantus 45U at bed at 2006/11/16 - 19:51:17 in reply to: 3
5 - I was just diagnosed with Type 2. I have taken steps to limit my diet since I am grossly obese and in the two weeks that I have been doing this, I've lost 6 pounds. How do you get your mind to step thinking "eat fat"? I know I didn't get this way overnight and I can't reverse it overnight, but to have full success, I need to "fix" my mind too. I'd appreciate any comments, I've actually considered psychiatric counseling. (Comment this)

Written by: Julie in VA at 2007/01/06 - 16:24:13
6 - Oh Julie, the first thing is to not blame yourself! Diabetes and weight are a terrible struggle. Do you have a diabetes educator and/or a nutritionist? Many people find both so helpful. You are doing really well so far, and there are many people on this website who can help. Did you read all the articles for those new to diabetes on the Diabetes Monitor Home Page? It's going to be a big adjustment, and Dr. Bill tries to help everyone make connections and educate themselves for this frightening new journey. Learn as much as you can and know that you don't have to let diabetes "have you". Welcome! And please check back- people more knowledgable than I will tune in eventually! (Comment this)

Written by: Toneylee at 2007/01/06 - 18:46:48
7 - Julie in VA, There is alot for you to learn but don't try to do it all at once. I was diagnosed in 98' and I'm still learning something new all the time. Ask your dr if there are any diabetes support groups around where you live. I've been going to one for the past 8 years and I learn something every time I go. I also think going to a therapist isn't such a bad idea because diabetics have a very high incidence of depression. Don't make big changes all at once, start with baby steps and plan to continue to go forward slowly. We can't change all our bad habits overnight so pick one thing to change and stick to it. Maybe 6 mos later pick another, just try to add exercise as one sooner rather than later. That's where I really started to change my life when I decided to join my local rec center. Good luck and keep asking questions. (Comment this)

Written by: geri in Co, T2 in 1998, 10 byetta (7/06), 2.5 2/x glucotrol XL, 1000 mg metformin ER 2/x, Levemir 28U 2/daily at 2007/01/06 - 21:06:11 in reply to: 5
8 - Toneylee,

My visit with the Dietitian is Tuesday. Right now, I'm trying to keep between 1000 and 1200 calories a day and I've eliminated starches, white breads, sugar and alcohol. I felt very un-educated when I left the Dr's. office, but I went to the Accu-chek web site and that helped, as well as the American Diabetes Association web site. I'm just trying to adjust to this "new" lifestyle. (Comment this)

Written by: Julie in VA at 2007/01/06 - 22:48:00 in reply to: 6
9 - That's great, JULIE; you are off to a good start. Listen to Geri about not trying to change everything all at once. There are so many good places to learn about diabetes. Probably all say a lot of the same things, but I believe that the more often something is repeated, the easier it is to remember. It helps me anyway! At the Diabetes Monitor Home Page (www.diabetesmonitor.com), Dr Bill starts out with "New to Diabetes? Start Here." Click the "Here" to find all sorts of links and info. Also, Check out the other blogs right here. They are listed in the gray, right hand column. There is a blog for Meals, Eating, and Nutrition under #8, Current Dixcussion Forums. You might get some tips there, too. This is the greatest blog- I'm glad you found it! :) (Comment this)

Written by: Toneylee at 2007/01/07 - 14:08:26
10 - I am 48, kidney disease (controlled) unrelated to diabetes, and PCOS. My annual bloodwork shows I am now diabetic (AC1 went from normal to 7.5 over the year) and the fasting blood glucose from normal to 122. Don't see the endo till next month--they are in high demand-the first group I called has over 9000 patients and not accepting any new.

Becuse of my kidneys I can't take metformin, and have been prepared by my GP that will prob have to start insulin (and byetta)-great except I am absolutley phobic of needles.(panic attack phobic)

My girl firend who is diabetic, says not to worry the "pens" are esy and you don't see the needle..any one else here had needle issue they've overcome????

Guess just seeking some reassurance that I can handle this.... (Comment this)

Written by: Denise at 2007/01/11 - 10:18:25
11 - Denise,
Most of us were scared when we found out we would have to start Byetta injections. I have found that I almost never feel them unless I happen to hit a nerve or a blood vessel.
If I do it is only a slight pain less than a pinch.

I starting by using a mirror to see what I was doing but gave that up after a month or so.
I inject in the area about 2 inches below and to either side of my navel rotating sides and spots 1 for the am shot and one for the PM shot.

I think the biggest fear I had was finding out I had Diabetes. I can truly say the biggest support and the most information I found was Right here on this Blog full of kind, friendly and knowledgeable Diabetes.

Hang in there!!!
 (Comment this)

Written by: Angela in Iowa type 2 11-05, Byetta 10, Metformin er at 2007/01/11 - 11:41:37 in reply to: 10
12 - Thanks Angela,

The dx was not so scary except the needles part. I was told when I was 13 that I'd have it by the time I was 20 (because of my kidney problem), and my mom has t-2 ( and refuses to control and has now lost her vision because of, and I have PCOS. So I feel I have dodged the bullet for 28 years.

I am rather perturbed that due to insurance caused bouncing from doc to doc, that NONE of them except my current Primary (who I decided to keep in July despite the fact he is not a PP for my insurance now) who has sent me to an ENDO. They've all said, oh PCOS and can't take glucophage-try harder (to lose weight)..seems there may have been other help that would have kept me from being t-2 now...anyhow..sorry for the rant and thanks for the kind words....

right now it is the waiting that is killing me....I do not do hurry up and wait well. Hopefully there will be a cancellation and I can get in earlier that FEb 14th.

Again, thanks!
 (Comment this)

Written by: Denise-(dx t-2 Dec 29, PCOS) at 2007/01/15 - 10:24:58
13 - Just got dianosed as T2. Triglycerides are thru the roof. Cholesteroal 329. My LDL could not be tested dur to the number so high. Did two weeks of monitoring w/h a one-touch ultra two. Avg level 142 testing 4 time a day. Bllod Press is normal now. Wt is 260 at 5'8'. 44 white male. RX includes amaryl and Lisinopril for bp I guess this is intended to be an introduction. I'm a 20 year retired sailor US Navy. I'm scared and imtimdated by all this info. Right now I can't focus on what needs to be done. can someone slap me. I know i can read the newby articals. Just wanna hear from you the T2. James Brown, yes I'm still walking (Comment this)

Written by: James Brown at 2007/01/18 - 23:54:08
14 - To James scared and intimated by all this info

Hang in there It will take some time for you to adjust to all of this info about what is going on with your body.
I was really scared at 1st but I have come to except my new life style.

I had a very good Family practice Doctor who was all for me going to see an Endo.
If you are not comfortable with your present Doctor and treatment seek more help.

There are Diabetes Classes and many other resources such as this Blog will bring you a better understanding of your situation.

Hang in there and things will get better and you will life a longer and healthier life by learning the most you can about your situation and trying to improve your Eating, Exercising habits along with trying to eliminate your stress level.

We all sidle backs wards and at times eat what we should not,exercise to little and take on more in life than we should.

All we can do is your best and remember none of us are perfect.
And if we fall off our treatment wagon Just hop back on and take control of your Diabetes
 (Comment this)

Written by: Angela in Iowa type 2 11-05, Byetta 10, Metformin er at 2007/01/19 - 09:47:35
15 - James Brown, I think all of us were scared when we were first diagnosed. I was. I was angry for a long time too until I started learning about things through my local diabetes center. It takes time to learn and remember things and Angela is right, we won't be perfect all the time. Take a deep breath and make baby steps towards changing your lifestyle. Change only one thing at a time. If you need more help, just ask us, we still remember the first few months of our diagnoses and how scarey it was. (Comment this)

Written by: geri in Co, T2 in 1998, 10 byetta (7/06),3- 2.5 glucotrol XL daily, 1000 mg metformin ER 2/x, at 2007/01/19 - 10:12:19
16 - James Brown, I like your humor. Just remember, "I feel good" now. (Comment this)

Written by: geri in Co, T2 in 1998, 10 byetta (7/06),3- 2.5 glucotrol XL daily, 1000 mg metformin ER 2/x, at 2007/01/19 - 10:15:07
17 - Hope this is the right place for this question (I didn't find anything specific for hypertention), if not sorry Dr Bill...just point me right for next time:

In the new article that was up today, it says a certain Hypertension medication is the least likely to precipitate diabetes..I have read the insert for my Norvasc and online...its doesn't say anything about a relation to diabetes....how does one find out about their anti-hypertensive?

Is this a big worry--it is on the growing list of questions for my endo..but if its really not a worry maybe it doesn't need to be?



 (Comment this)

Written by: Denise-(dx t-2 12/29/06-endo sched 2/14/07, PCOS) at 2007/01/20 - 21:02:17
18 - I would like to know as to how exercise acutally helps in activating pancreas for producing insulin or reducing blood sugar levels as the cells are not absorbing sugar from the blood and more exercise will only make the person weak.
Anand

[NOTE: Good question. May I request that responses be posted at the Exercise Discussion Forum? If anyone wants to discuss this further, please post a brief comment here to tell folks that the followup will be there. Thanks!
Bill the diabetes doc.]

 (Comment this)

Written by: R.P Anand at 2007/02/01 - 07:17:28
19 - UPDATE: I have now taken the Diabetes class and have a much better understanding of Diabetes. I am continuing to stay the course on a low-calorie diet and have lost 16 pounds. My blood sugar levels have come down, but they are not consistent. Does the consistency get better as I work with my Dr. to adjust my meds? (Comment this)

Written by: Julie in VA at 2007/02/01 - 23:08:43
20 - JULIE: That's the goal, yes. You want to get bs levels as stable as possible and sometimes that is quite a trick. You just keep plugging away at it with your doctor's help - fine tuning is often required. (Losing weight helps a lot, too, so keep up the good work!) :) (Comment this)

Written by: Toneylee at 2007/02/02 - 11:41:42
21 - I have type 11 diabetes. I am trying to cut down on my prtein for kidney problems. I had 1/2 apple and my blood sugar shot up to 189 this was for my breakfast.It went down to 149 in about 1/2 hour Problem? (Comment this)

Written by: jackie suckling at 2007/02/09 - 15:51:18
22 - I am a type two. I am also drugphobic - my word - don't like to take drugs. I feel they lead to further complications.

I do exercise - try for 2 to 4 miles, walking aerobically, at least 4 times a week. I take vitamins and much magnesium and chromium (elements which are found to be lower levels in diabetics). One meal a day is a huge salad.

My worse A1C in the last four years has been 6.1. I do not take daily readings.

I have read about one other person who has a similar program and he claims not to be diabetic anymore.

My recommendation would be to read up on some of the natural methods of control. There are numerous natural products on the markets (many employing "cures" used in other countries). My advice would be to try some of these while monitoring your sugar for a period of time each time you try a new one. Most of these are much cheaper than drugs.

Doctors recommend drugs because they are inundated with information from drug companies - they are rarely aware of natural methods of control. Caution: don't go off your medicine till your data shows your natural product is controlling. (Comment this)

Written by: Curt at 2007/02/17 - 14:31:32
23 - Curt, Congrats on your good work. That is a real lifestyle change that is working so far. I hate drugs too and hope to get off of all drugs in the future. Just want you to know that I've known people who have been able to control their diabetes with diet and exercise without drugs for over 20 years but eventually needed oral meds and insulin. Hopefully you won't have that happen, don't want to burst your bubble, but just wanted you to know in case it happens to you so you won't feel guilty about it. The longer off of drugs the better. Keep up the good work. (Comment this)

Written by: geri in Co, T2 in 1998, 10 byetta (7/06),3- 2.5 glucotrol XL daily, 1000 mg metformin ER 2/x, at 2007/02/17 - 14:56:51 in reply to: 22
profile
24 - Curt: Meal planning and exercise are the foundation of diabetes control. But type 2 diabetes is a progressive disorder, and as Geri mentions, it will probably worsen with time despite your best efforts, and may someday require medications and/or insulin shots.

I'd be extremely leery of believing the claims put forward by folks promoting herbs, minerals, and other concoctions: See Too Good to be True?. (Comment this)

Written by: Bill the diabetesdoc at 2007/02/17 - 15:23:43 in reply to: 22
25 - I just read another article and this one totes the possibility of controlling diabetes with cloves.

http://time.blogs.com/daily_rx/2006/04/cinnamon_spice_.html (Comment this)

Written by: Curt at 2007/02/17 - 18:19:52
26 - Just got put on insulin, and am anxious about the shots. Any advice?

I am not entirely new to diabetes...I had gestational diabetes with my 1st baby and got diagnosed with type 2 six weeks after she was born. That was in 1998. I did great for awhile but let things slip the last year or so. Went to the doctor about six weeks ago and vowed to take better care of myself.

It has been a long six weeks. My fasting glucose was over 300! My A1C was awful. I have been put on all kinds of meds, including 2000 mg Metformin XR, Januvia, two blood pressure meds, Lipitor. My numbers have really improved but not quite enough. I've lost about ten pounds in the last six weeks. I injured my back recently so adding a lot of exercise is temporarily out. So, my doctor just put me on Lantus at bedtime.

Only problem is, I haven't been able to force myself to do that first shot yet. I feel ridiculous! I took insulin while pregnant with #2, using syringes. Now I have a pen with an itty bitty needle and I'm freaking out. I'm not even needle phobic. I think partly I just don't want to be on insulin (don't want to be on it forever, don't want to gain weight) and partly I am just scared to do that first shot. I can remember it hurting before if I shot into a nerve. Any tips to make it easier? I was supposed to start it on Monday night but I have been too chicken up until now!

Also, wondering if anyone was on insulin and was able to stop using it later on. I am hoping to keep losing weight and not need insulin forever. But I'm on the max dose of Metformin and also on Januvia, and still need some help from insulin, so obviously I have a ways to go. (Comment this)

Written by: Karla at 2007/03/07 - 15:43:37
27 - I was diagnosed in October, 2006 as a type 2 diabetic. I'm not overweight, I'm active, fit, and eat a pretty good (not perfect, I'm not a vegetarian) diet. My fbs was 720 when I was diagnosed. Doc put me on insulin (I refused hospitalization) until I was consistently under 150. I took actos plus met 15/500 and glimepiride until last month, and my bs was remaining below 100 almost all the time. My dad is type 2 - still healthy with his own feet and eyes at age 72. Grandmother died last year at 90 after 45 years as a type 2, with her own feet and eyes as well. I have a brother who is a type 1 (26 years since diagnosis, multiple complications).

When Doc learned my bs was staying so low, he freaked out, pulled the glimepiride, and kicked up the actos plus to 15/850. His concerns were that I would gain weight, or go hypo. Now bs is 120-160 all the time. Doc said Friday that was too high. I agree.

I'm changing docs. (Comment this)

Written by: Mark at 2007/03/11 - 18:11:03
28 - I recently developed steroid induced diabetes. I am on high doses of Prednizone for FSGS unrelated to diabetes. I am on insulin injections 3 times a day. I am having a hard time controlling the numbers. I currently take 4 units of insulin for every 1 carb choice. I have good fasting blood sugars in the mornings but by lunch time they are again in the 300's. Which is an improvement as they were in the 400-500's. I was told by the dietian to go up to 5 units of insulin before lunch and to stay at the 4 for the other meals. I am getting pretty discouraged. Can anyone tell me if they have had a simular experience and is there light at the end of the tunnel? (Comment this)

Written by: Kathy at 2007/03/16 - 17:26:32
29 - Kathy, Welcome to the blog. I'm not sure I can help you because I've not been on steroids before. I do know they cause high bgs so I would guess that if you are ever taken off of the Prednizone your numbers will come down. That's really all I know other than you might try eating very low glycemic index foods in an effort to keep the numbers down. Sorry I can't help more. Hopefully someone who has been on steroids can help if they see this. (Comment this)

Written by: geri in Co, T2 in 1998, 10 byetta (7/06),3- 2.5 glucotrol XL daily, 1000 mg metformin ER 2/x, at 2007/03/16 - 20:22:14 in reply to: 28
30 - Hi, I'm newly diagnosed T2 w/ elevated cholesterol levels, overweight, & perimenopausal.
In 1992 I had gestational while carrying my daughter, & ended up injecting insulin. I am finding this SO difficult to deal with. My fbs have not been over 123, yet they tend to go up 90 minutes after eating. I take Fortamet 1000mg. a day. I can't seem to stay on track for eating healthy. I get cravings galore. Any suggestions?
I think MD is going to start me on Byetta next visit. (next week) (Comment this)

Written by: Debi at 2007/04/19 - 22:00:48
31 - Hello, I'm A noobie wit diabetes. I have only had it for 2 months. I am on met forman 500 twice a day. Do you ever get off the meds once your on them? (Comment this)

Written by: Chris Ramsey at 2007/04/20 - 04:27:06
32 - DEBI: It is indeed hard to deal with - pretty overwhelming at first. But it will get better. Go to Dr Bill's main page - the Diabetes Monitor. You can find it under #1 in the column to the right. Just click on the link that says Diabetes Monitor. Then, where it says "New to Diabetes?" click "start here". You will find a ton of info, including eating suggestions.

If you are going to start Byetta, come over to the Byetta forum (it is listed in #8). Learn what to expect, get prepared, and then join the discussion. (Comment this)

Written by: toneylee at 2007/04/20 - 10:01:32
33 - New and not so new to diabetes. My family has a history of both type I and II diabetes, my mom is typeII, her mother was typeII and moms sister was typeI. My doc has been monitoring me for the past 5 yrs as I am also showing signs of early stages (doc says I'm pre-diabetic). I have a tendency to think either you are or you aren't, but I guess that's irrelevant these days.
I'm a few months away from being 49, take meds for high cholesterol, BP is fine but have been diagnosed with 2 leaking heart valves, have arthritis in both knees, take meds for depression and as someone else mentioned...I too am perimenopausal.
Recently my doctor has decided to start me on Metformin. My numbers are not high, they just won't stay down in the normal range.
To be honest, I too am having a hard time accepting having to deal with this and have a lot of anger and sadness inside because of it.
It seems when there's family history involved someone is doomed.
Just needed to get this out this morning, feeling a little down. (Comment this)

Written by: Jane at 2007/04/22 - 10:40:24
34 - Jane: It is depressing and sad, but I object to doomed! Well, you are right that genetics play a major role, but you can fight the genes with a good lifestyle. Ok, I know that's really hard. But it gives you a chance. You have to work harder at it than most people do. A few people right here on these boards have successfully controlled or reversed their diabetes. Anybody would be depressed right now, but I hope you can work through it and decide not to let the genes win. If that doesn't work, then by gosh you will live with this mean disease rather than letting it take over. Get mad and fight - you are worth it!
 (Comment this)

Written by: toneylee at 2007/04/22 - 11:01:06
35 - Jane, Welcome to the blog. I understand your anger and depression since I went through it too. Sometimes still get angry and depressed but not for long. I started going to a diabetes support group meeting once per month and after 8 1/2 years I still learn something new. The best thing though, is knowing I'm not alone and neither are you. Toneylee is right that you can fight and start making small steps towards preventing full blown diabetes right now by starting a walking program. If you can't walk you can ride your bike, inside or out. You can start cutting down on your processed food carbs and learn more about complex carbs. There are also diabetes education classes I'd see if your insurance co would pay for as a preventive. I wish I had done these things before I was diagnosed but I kept thinking it wouldn't happen to me. If we can help more just ask. And remember, you are not alone and you can help yourself before you become a full blown diabetic by taking control of your health. (Comment this)

Written by: geri in Co: Byetta 10,(7/06), metformin er 1000mg 2xdaily, gluctrol xl 4-2.5 mg daily, at 2007/04/22 - 11:49:26 in reply to: 33
36 - Thank you for the encouragement. I have already been doing a lot of walking on my days off. My work days are long so those days have no hope of energy for activity.
My main problem will be the eating...I am such a finicky eater, so that makes it very rough. I have a good friend staying with us for a while and she is determined to help me with my eating so I have help there.
I have good days and bad days, I know eventually I'll get to the point I need to be.
Thank you for the support here.
I do have a question though...is it normal to have a higher sugar reading in the morning then at night? I thought it was usually the other way around. (Comment this)

Written by: Jane at 2007/04/23 - 09:26:08
37 - JANE: Very normal. It is called the dawn effect. It is hard to get under control sometimes, even when other numbers are good. Do you know we have a forum here for recipes and for Meals and Nutrition? All the forums are listed in column #8 to the right. If you read at least some of the posts, you might get some ideas that appeal to you. There are pages and pages of them. Let us know how your friend does with the food, and how you come along. Good luck! (Comment this)

Written by: toneylee at 2007/04/23 - 11:40:57
38 - Jane, Here is a very good article on this the Dawn effect is on page #2

http://www.diabetesselfmanagement.com/article.cfm?aid=2200

 (Comment this)

Written by: Angela in Iowa type 2 11-05, Byetta 10, 2 x day, Metformin ER, 1x day, Diagnosed type 2 11-2005 at 2007/04/23 - 12:44:01 in reply to: 36
39 - toneylee, I have never heard of the dawn effect, that's new to me. The mornings are when I have the higher than normal number...just barely above normal, but consistantly above. I've been doing extra testing at different times of the day to see what my numbers do through out the day.

Angela, thanks for the link. I do as much reading as possible on all of this. Even though my mom has been a diabetic for 0ver 20 years so many things have changed from the way it was treated since she started dealing with it and I see she is still more stubborn than I am with the eating habits. (Comment this)

Written by: Jane at 2007/04/24 - 13:15:30 in reply to: 37
40 - Jane: It sounds like you are doing things right - with the extra testing and learning, I mean. Now, if you add a food diary to that, you will have excellent info for what causes highs that will help you plan a diet. You are right, things have changed drastically in the last 20 years. Just think of all the new drugs available now. And diet recommendations as well as numbers to shoot for have changed as well. I think you will be okay. Not to encourage over-indulgence or anything, but did you know a tiny snack before bed can often help the dawn effect? People have tried things like 6 raw almonds (not salted or in oil), a glass of wine, one small square of dark chocolate. They work for some but not others - who knows why? It is all right to experiment a little and see. And don't worry if some days are worse than others. Just get back on it and think slow, long term changes. (Comment this)

Written by: toneylee at 2007/04/24 - 16:16:35
41 - Help! I have been Type II diabetic for 12 years (I'm 59). During the day, I can control my glucose levels with Metformin (2000 mg/day) and Glyburide 9 mg/day. However when I check my glucose first thing in the morning I register a 200 to 240 reading. Why is it that my highest readings are after a ten hour fast? How do I counter that?

Last week I forgot to take my evening dosage (1000 mg metformi and 3 mg glyburide) and took it at bedtime. The next morning I had a reading of 305. At 7:00 a.m. I took my morning dose (1000 mg metformin and 6 mg glyburide) and returned to bed. At 9:00 a.m. my glucose level was 410.

Out of frustration, I went and ate breakfast (one cup of oatmeal). At noon my glucose reading was 211. Am I overmedicated? or simply ill timed? I have moved my med times to 7:00 a.m. and noon. All I take now at night is 3 mg of glyburide. Since the change my fasting numbers are 120-145.

Input please.

Loumo (Comment this)

Written by: Lou Morlando at 2007/05/07 - 19:14:23
42 - Loumo: The dawn effect is a very common problem, but there are some things to try. David Mendosa - a writer, expert on diabetes, and a person with diabetes himself - has written an article about it on his blog. Go here: http://www.mendosa.com/blog.htm and scroll to article number 13. Some comments are realistic but discouraging. Others have helped a lot of people. David's site is full of neat information. I think you will like it and I hope it helps! (Comment this)

Written by: toneylee in va at 2007/05/07 - 20:05:30
43 - I recently had a GTT and these were my glucose levels.

Fasting: 91

1/2 hr: 179

1 hr: 165

2 hr: 114 H

Does anyone know if these levels are of any concern in terms of diagnosis of potential diabetes or borderline diabetes? (Comment this)

Written by: Abbie at 2007/05/22 - 08:24:44
profile
44 -
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(4) Also: if you haven't yet answered our polls to tell us more about yourself, we'd encourage you to please do so:
(5) Finally, if you like to answer polls, there are lots more at the Diabetes Monitor, at Polls.


Many thanks, from Steph & Bill Quick

 (Comment this)

Written by: Steph and Bill Quick at 2007/05/22 - 08:36:03
45 - My mother was recently diagnosed with diabetes. She does not trust the medical community and does not openly discuss all her symptoms with her doctors. Her blood sugar levels have been recorded at a very high rate. She is taking insulin shots, but they are causing her painful headaches. Any suggestions about the source of the headaches? (Comment this)

Written by: Jack Dru at 2007/05/22 - 21:34:01
46 - Jack Dru,

Oh Jack If you could only make her understand how important that she be open with her Doctor. Maybe she needs a change in her doctor to one she will be more open with.
Diabetes is very serious maybe she will go to a Diabetes Educator and a Nutritionist they usually welcome a family member and or friend that can help support the diabetic.
There is a real chance she will have a Heart Attack, Stroke, go blind or have amputations if she does not take care of herself.
She has to let her Doctor know all the medications she is taking even if they are over the counter like vitamins or other supplements including any herbs or home remedies.
The Headaches can be caused by so many things from High Blood Sugar to High Blood Preasure to ANYTHING else.
 (Comment this)

Written by: Angela in Iowa type 2 11-05, Byetta 10, 2 x day, Metformin ER, 1x day, Diagnosed type 2 11-2005 at 2007/05/23 - 08:29:53 in reply to: 45
47 - Jack Dru, I agree with what Angela says but just wanted to add that the headaches could also be from her blood glucose levels going lower than what she is use to. Our bodies get use to higher numbers and then when they start going back down to normal levels headaches can occur. Does your mom test her blood when the headaches start? And remember her low may be higher than others, it's what her body is use to. Testing her blood is one way to know what is going on. Good Luck and if we can help more just ask. (Comment this)

Written by: geri in Co: Byetta 10,(7/06), metformin er 1000mg 2xdaily, gluctrol xl 4-2.5 mg daily, at 2007/05/23 - 08:45:43 in reply to: 45
48 - Hey all. Just found this blog and I've a few questions for those who've been dealing with diabetes for a while.

A little about me...43 yrs, on the edge of being clinically obese (230 lbs @ 6 ft.). Have been on actoplusmet plus for 3 months now (1x15mg/850mg daily), after being diagnosed T2. I also supplement with 2 500 mg tabs of cinammon daily.

On to the questions...

1. Does anyone experience ringing in the ears on an ongoing basis? This has just started for me and its annoying as hell. Just took my BG and have a 154 reading.

2. Has anyone taking actoplusmet actually regained sensation in their feet after being on it for awhile? My doctor said this would happen, but I have yet to experience it. It seemed that this (reduced numbing) was happening two months in, but I've since noticed increased numbness. I don't expect overnight miracles, but after 3 months was hoping for a little improvement.

3. My BG seems to bounce around between 115 to 150 regularly, with no excess carb's in the diet - does this happen to most of you?

Understand, I'm asking for anecdotal info from sufferers. The more contact I have with the MD's, the less enchanted I am. (Comment this)

Written by: John at 2007/05/25 - 14:18:50
49 - JOHN: Everything about diabetes is so complicated and involves such a balancing act. That is especially true when it comes to diet. I know MDs can be less than enchanting, but how about a Diabetes Educator? Many people get so much help in controlling BGs with a diabetes educator or nutritionist. Your doctor can refer you to one. (Comment this)

Written by: toneylee in va at 2007/05/26 - 10:05:10
50 - John,

I have ringing in my ears from the metformin and yes its annoying but I got used to it.

When I was first diagnosed and started tracking my BS, taking medication and all, I found my BS was all over the place too.

My worse time is in the morning with the dawn phenomena.

I on my own since I do not yet have insurance started to track everything I eat and count carbs and calories.

I keep track of my BS before and 2 - 3 hours after each meal so I will know what to eat and what to cut back on.

I now have very stable BS range and because of it I have reduced my foot problems too. I had terrible pins and needles sensations. Now I only get them if my BS goes up over 180 which is rarely now.

All the changes in diet and tracking take time and diligence but are well worth attaining as you will start feeling much much better.

Outside of diet as a cause to BS rise or drop the stresses in our daily life have a big effect as do other meds or supplements.

I wish you good luck and lots of endurance in your journey to control.
 (Comment this)

Written by: DianeW in Washington, t2-2003, Byetta 10-2007, Metformin 850 X3, levemir, at 2007/05/26 - 11:13:40 in reply to: 48
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