Daunted!

[Greymouser]

Hi, my name is Dave and I have just been diagnosed with type two I think...
I have yet to see an endocrinologist, though will be, in a couple of weeks. Whilst I am not particularly surprised by the delay, it is disappointing as it is going to be something like six weeks plus from first diagnosis, till the appointment. It is not helped by the fact my GP and her surgery has been slow to offer advice too. I am left quite daunted by everything to be honest.

In the first four weeks I have already lost 18 pounds in weight, ( sorry I just do not think in KG! ) so consider to have made a good start. My cholesterol level is only 5.2 too, which I am taking to be a positive. I, like so many others before me, have so many questions and would like to start with a few now if someone could take the time to answer please.

Firstly: most of the diabetics I know test their blood glucose regularly, even for type two diabetes, so why was I told there is no need to do so? It makes no sense...

Secondly: if I am going to start testing, which machine is reliable and decent? There are just so many options it seems.

Thirdly: I am getting a lot of new sensations, ( symptoms? ) which mean little to me. Such as occasionally light headed and belly ache. Is there anything in particular that I need to look out for?

Thank you in anticipation,
Dave. 🙂

 

[Amigo]

Hi, my name is Dave and I have just been diagnosed with type two I think...
I have yet to see an endocrinologist, though will be, in a couple of weeks. Whilst I am not particularly surprised by the delay, it is disappointing as it is going to be something like six weeks plus from first diagnosis, till the appointment. It is not helped by the fact my GP and her surgery has been slow to offer advice too. I am left quite daunted by everything to be honest.

In the first four weeks I have already lost 18 pounds in weight, ( sorry I just do not think in KG! ) so consider to have made a good start. My cholesterol level is only 5.2 too, which I am taking to be a positive. I, like so many others before me, have so many questions and would like to start with a few now if someone could take the time to answer please.

Firstly: most of the diabetics I know test their blood glucose regularly, even for type two diabetes, so why was I told there is no need to do so? It makes no sense...

Secondly: if I am going to start testing, which machine is reliable and decent? There are just so many options it seems.

Thirdly: I am getting a lot of new sensations, ( symptoms? ) which mean little to me. Such as occasionally light headed and belly ache. Is there anything in particular that I need to look out for?

Thank you in anticipation,
Dave. 🙂

Hi Dave, I'm wondering if you've been started on Metformin which is notorious for causing stomach problems and the runs?

I'm surprised you've been referred to an Endocrinologist to be honest because it's unusual for type 2's to be offered this unless there's management issues. Sounds like you are already onto it and well done with the weight loss, it really will help.

Many doctors don't support home testing and won't prescribe testing strips but it's mainly financial I believe. I think the Codefree meter and strips are the cheapest to self fund. I strongly believe in home testing. It's helped me enormously.

My GP didn't offer any advice either or see me after the diagnosis. However he gave me a meter and prescribes strips (but I have other health issues).

Others will be along to advise but sounds like you're already doing well and committed to this so well done!

 

[Greymouser]

Hi Dave, I'm wondering if you've been started on Metformin which is notorious for causing stomach problems and the runs?

I'm surprised you've been referred to an Endocrinologist to be honest because it's unusual for type 2's to be offered this unless there's management issues. Sounds like you are already onto it and well done with the weight loss, it really will help.

Many doctors don't support home testing and won't prescribe testing strips but it's mainly financial I believe. I think the Codefree meter and strips are the cheapest to self fund. I strongly believe in home testing. It's helped me enormously.

My GP didn't offer any advice either or see me after the diagnosis. However he gave me a meter and prescribes strips (but I have other health issues).

Others will be along to advise but sounds like you're already doing well and committed to this so well done!

Thanks for the reply.

Yes I have been put on Metformin or whatever it is called, 500 mg is the dose at the moment. I think I was referred to the endocrinologist, along with several other consultants, because they are unsure exactly what is wrong with me. I only got the diagnosis of diabetes after an unpleasant trip to casualty, after having a seizure,( or fainting fit!) so things are a little more complicated than just plain diabetes they suspect. I think...

 

[Bubbsie]

Hi, my name is Dave and I have just been diagnosed with type two I think...
I have yet to see an endocrinologist, though will be, in a couple of weeks. Whilst I am not particularly surprised by the delay, it is disappointing as it is going to be something like six weeks plus from first diagnosis, till the appointment. It is not helped by the fact my GP and her surgery has been slow to offer advice too. I am left quite daunted by everything to be honest.

In the first four weeks I have already lost 18 pounds in weight, ( sorry I just do not think in KG! ) so consider to have made a good start. My cholesterol level is only 5.2 too, which I am taking to be a positive. I, like so many others before me, have so many questions and would like to start with a few now if someone could take the time to answer please.

Firstly: most of the diabetics I know test their blood glucose regularly, even for type two diabetes, so why was I told there is no need to do so? It makes no sense...

Secondly: if I am going to start testing, which machine is reliable and decent? There are just so many options it seems.

Thirdly: I am getting a lot of new sensations, ( symptoms? ) which mean little to me. Such as occasionally light headed and belly ache. Is there anything in particular that I need to look out for?

Thank you in anticipation,
Dave. 🙂

Hi Dave...I'm not surprised to hear that your GP & the practice have been slow to offer advice...a very similar start many of us have had...a couple of questions for you...have you been started on any medication yet?...as said could be a possible reason for some of your symptoms...in addition to your weight loss...this will help lower your blood sugars...when your levels reduce it takes a while for your body to adapt...the symptoms you mention are not uncommon when your BG's (blood sugars) start to 'come down'...Testing is the subject of much debate hereon the forum...I (and many others) was advised not to test by my GP and other health care professionals...I ignored that advice and have tested regularly...I assume since you were told not to test you have not been supplied with a meter/strips...its all about cost cutting...we are given various excuses for this...the reality is it's about cost cutting (we can address that later if you wish)...the most economical one since you are self funding is the SD Codefree...you can buy a starter kit for around £12.99 from Amazon...this includes the meter...lancing device & a small sample of lancets & strips...as it only contains a sample of strips/lancets always wise to buy more of those at the same time you purchase your meter...the codefree is the one I used initially...perfectly good meter...simple to use...there is so much advice available on what diet &lifestyle changes...so much it can be overwhelming...it might help if you can indicate how much you know about diabetes...managing/controlling your BG... that way members will be able to offer the right support...suggestions to help...anything you need to ask post it here...there are many experienced type 2's here who give you the benefit of their experience...good luck.

 

[Bubbsie]

Thanks for the reply.

Yes I have been put on Metformin or whatever it is called, 500 mg is the dose at the moment. I think I was referred to the endocrinologist, along with several other consultants, because they are unsure exactly what is wrong with me. I only got the diagnosis of diabetes after an unpleasant trip to casualty, after having a seizure,( or fainting fit!) so things are a little more complicated than just plain diabetes they suspect. I think...

Oops posted my response before I saw this...likely the Metformin is the reason behind the tummy trouble...this can give you digestive problems...happened to me...however after a couple of weeks my symptoms subsided as I got used to it...if you are on the standard version (there are two types) and the problems continue...you can ask for the extended release Metformin...many say it is gentler on the system...standard Metformin is the usual first choice for GP's...it's cheaper (again all about the money)...do you have any idea what your blood sugar levels were at diagnosis?...have an HbA1c test (this is a test which indicates what your BG levels were for the previous three months)...there is a lot to consider...diet...testing...lifestyle...however...type 2 is a perfectly manageable condition once you have little more understanding of how to reduce/lower your blood sugar levels...it can/does get better...honestly...I always recommend a book I read...Type 2 Diabetes The First Year...by Gretchen Becker...herself a diabetic...she takes you through her first year from diagnosis onwards...month by month...answers so many of the questions we all have...how/why...is it our own fault (the answer is a firm NO)...what to do...how to manage...testing or not to test...she explains the benefits of testing...please try to read it...it completely changed my approach to my condition...look forward to hearing your progress...keep us updated.

 

[Ljc]

Hi Greymouser welcome. Firstly I would like to reassure you that with the right info, right meds if needed and some exersize T1 and T2 are manageable! Many of us on here have ended up fitter because of our diabetes.

Did you have any other symptoms before you went to hospital
Did they test you BGs (blood glucose) at he hospital, do you know what it was ?
Apologies for all the questions, the extra info will help us to help you.

Your tum problems are likely to be caused by Metformin or as some of us call it metfartin

If it turns out that you have T1 you will be provided with a meter.
Many here who have to self fund their testing strips use the SD Codefree meter it's available online, I'll give links in a mo.
All meters dear or cheap have to conform to certain standards in the uk.
High street brands testing strips for their meters cost anything between
£15 - £30 for fifty where the Codefree ones cost around £7 it is a perfectly good meter that does all that's needed. When you're initially testing just before eating then two hours afterwards and possibly as you wake up. cost is important.

Homehealth http://homehealth-uk.com/all-products/codefree-blood-glucose-monitoring-system-mmoll-or-mgdl/ on this site you need to claim VAT relief on the site and if you're in the Uk we use the mmol/l measurement
http://loraldiabetes.blogspot.co.uk/2006/10/test-review-adjust.html
Amazon https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B073WHN...fm-21&linkId=cb802524a5a272370a22a66f9d54406e If I remember correctly they remove the VAT and provide the right meter .

You'll need to buy more strips and lancets as starter packs only provide 10.

Have a read of Test review adjust by Alan S
http://loraldiabetes.blogspot.co.uk/2006/10/test-review-adjust.html

Once you know what type you have, we'll be able to give you loads more advise.

Ask as many questions as you need to, ok

 

[Grannylorraine]

Welcome, lack of information is not uncommon on diagnosis.

 

[Greymouser]

Oops posted my response before I saw this...likely the Metformin is the reason behind the tummy trouble...this can give you digestive problems...happened to me...however after a couple of weeks my symptoms subsided as I got used to it...if you are on the standard version (there are two types) and the problems continue...you can ask for the extended release Metformin...many say it is gentler on the system...standard Metformin is the usual first choice for GP's...it's cheaper (again all about the money)...do you have any idea what your blood sugar levels were at diagnosis?...have an HbA1c test (this is a test which indicates what your BG levels were for the previous three months)...there is a lot to consider...diet...testing...lifestyle...however...type 2 is a perfectly manageable condition once you have little more understanding of how to reduce/lower your blood sugar levels...it can/does get better...honestly...I always recommend a book I read...Type 2 Diabetes The First Year...by Gretchen Becker...herself a diabetic...she takes you through her first year from diagnosis onwards...month by month...answers so many of the questions we all have...how/why...is it our own fault (the answer is a firm NO)...what to do...how to manage...testing or not to test...she explains the benefits of testing...please try to read it...it completely changed my approach to my condition...look forward to hearing your progress...keep us updated.

Thank you for the reply Bubsie and to the others, especially the welcomes. 🙂

I am already on the Extended release Metformin 500 mg, just started it yesterday. I cannot remember what the blood sugar was in the hospital, but last Thursday it was 9.2, which the nurse said was very high? I just have no idea what the safe levels are... I am also on Rampril and Amlodipin, both 10 mg, because my blood pressure was so high in the hospital, though it has thankfully settled down now. I suspect I have dodged much worse than diabetes, with such a high BP.

I do not know enough about Diabetes I am afraid and some of the advice I have had has been contradictory. I have been told to reduce food portion size, eat little and often, take a walk after the main meal of the day too. I am not sure about carbs either, some have said cut them right down altogether, increase vegetables, whilst others have said to not worry too much about counting, just keep it to little and often. I have of course cut sugar out of my diet completely almost, at least when it comes to adding it to stuff. I am having to take my reading glasses with me to the supermarket now, to read the tiny labels! I have just no idea about what are safe levels of carbs etc. which makes things complete guesswork. It does help that I have not eaten meat for over 25 years, nor dairy for over 20. The problem is I do have a distinct liking for fried food and nuts of various, unhealthy sorts. I mean I just have no idea what to have for snacks, it used to be nuts or crisps or dried fruit, which I have been told to cut out! Thank you for the book recommendations by the way.

Ljc thank you for the links, I will look into that. I am baffled as to why they have not made it clear as to what type of Diabetes I have. I have assumed that it is type two, which seems much more likely, but cannot understand why they have not made it obvious. Yes I did have some symptoms before the hospital trip, but do not know if they are connected to the Diabetes; high blood pressure, or something else! I had a few severe dizzy spells for instance, which I really should have seen the doctor about straight away, but hindsight is a wonderful thing eh? Again with hindsight, I was also experiencing some muscle weakness and extra tiredness, but just put that down to my increasing age.

One thing I have found very annoying, is getting in touch with the professionals at our surgery. I just went to the post office and had a worrying symptom, my leg went painful, sort of spasmed, then almost gave way and nearly dumped me on the ground! I went to the surgery, which luckily is near the post office, hoping to ask or at least make an appointment for the next few days, but was told I would have to wait almost three weeks! All I can say is that it is a good thing that there is this website! So with that in mind, does anyone know where that symptom came from?

Thanks again everyone. 🙂

 

[Bubbsie]

Greymouser...you definitely would benefit from reading Type 2 Diabetes The First Year...it will answer many of the points you've raised above...food...exercise...carbs...well written...easy to read...I think once you look at the threads...browse the forum...particularly the What did you eat yesterday thread...and the newly opened shop 'The 24/7 Shop'...you will be surprised what you can eat...and still reduce those blood sugars...I still enjoy fried food...dairy...most nuts are fine for snacks...however watch the calories...I'm not surprised at the response at your GP's practice...sometimes we have to be persistent...pig headed...I would ring the surgery...ask to have a word with your doctor...tell them what happened...let them know you need to see them...don't be put off...the symptoms you describe could be your blood sugars coming down...diabetes related...however...we can only make suggestions here...those symptoms need to be looked at by a doctor ASAP...so call...don't be put off...there must be space in their schedule to see urgent appointments...nothing wrong with being cautious.

 

[Greymouser]

Greymouser...you definitely would benefit from reading Type 2 Diabetes The First Year...it will answer many of the points you've raised above...food...exercise...carbs...well written...easy to read...I think once you look at the threads...browse the forum...particularly the What did you eat yesterday thread...and the newly opened shop 'The 24/7 Shop'...you will be surprised what you can eat...and still reduce those blood sugars...I still enjoy fried food...dairy...most nuts are fine for snacks...however watch the calories...I'm not surprised at the response at your GP's practice...sometimes we have to be persistent...pig headed...I would ring the surgery...ask to have a word with your doctor...tell them what happened...let them know you need to see them...don't be put off...the symptoms you describe could be your blood sugars coming down...diabetes related...however...we can only make suggestions here...those symptoms need to be looked at by a doctor ASAP...so call...don't be put off...there must be space in their schedule to see urgent appointments...nothing wrong with being cautious.

I will read that, when I get it, thank you again. I do tend to be very persistent, but do not want to get the GP angry. Because I had a seizure type event, I cannot drive for sixth months and I am very aware that she will be essential to getting my licence back. Two and a half weeks is not that bad on the scale of things, I once was told the wait would be six weeks!

There is the option of an emergency consultation, but only if you are quick enough and phone early in the morning. I am just not a morning person and so far have not managed to get one! I could try and see one of the other Doctors, but would rather not, because it will entail starting from scratch with an unknown. If things continue or get worse, I will go to the walk in centre guess...

This forum is great aint it? 🙂

 

[Ljc]

Hi again. Finding out if your T1 requires special blood tests which can take a while to get the results back. I can't remember what they are called, others here will know.
Often the symptoms come on fast

I'm wondering if the 9.2 was the Hb1ac, some practices have the machine that does this test rather than having to send it to a lab, if so yes it was high, but I was much higher when I was diagnosed,
but it could have been an on the spot blood test like what we do at home, then 9.2 depending when you last ate though it's above normal it's not very high .

I'm sorry to say their is a lot of misinformation out their and some of it comes from the professionals.
We can eat normally not little and often.
Dried fruit, grapes and fruit juice are packed full f sugar, some nuts are quite low in carbs and make a good snack.
Many of us T1s and T2s cut down on carbohydrates ie potatoes esp mash, rice, pasta and bread esp white. Fill up on veg that grows above ground, root veg can be quite high in carbs. But don't go mad and cut them all out this is a marathon not a sprint. When you get you're meter it will show you what foods you can and can't tolerate because unfortunately we are all different.

To give you a few ideasHave a look on this thread ' what did you eat yesterday'
https://forum.diabetes.org.uk/boards/threads/what-did-you-eat-yesterday.30349/

 

[Bubbsie]

I will read that, when I get it, thank you again. I do tend to be very persistent, but do not want to get the GP angry. Because I had a seizure type event, I cannot drive for sixth months and I am very aware that she will be essential to getting my licence back. Two and a half weeks is not that bad on the scale of things, I once was told the wait would be six weeks!

There is the option of an emergency consultation, but only if you are quick enough and phone early in the morning. I am just not a morning person and so far have not managed to get one! I could try and see one of the other Doctors, but would rather not, because it will entail starting from scratch with an unknown. If things continue or get worse, I will go to the walk in centre guess...

This forum is great aint it? 🙂

Obviously it has to be your choice...but...it's not a question of making the GP angry...she may be more than happy to speak with you...either way it would put your mind at rest...do go to the walk in centre if it does get any worse...as @Ljc says it may take some time for you to get a 'definitive' diagnosis...so just bear that in mind...keep us updated.

 

[Greymouser]

The 9.2 was definitely a blood sugar test, she took my blood! Good to hear it is not too bad, it was after my breakfast, which consisted of just a slice of toast with Houmous. ( White bread: me bad...) She did say what my HbA1c is, but I cannot remember, I will have to take notes in future for my records and to keep track.

Surprisingly, ( to me anyway, ) I felt better tonight after taking my Metformin, which is good.

 

[Ljc]

Hopefully your tum is getting used to Metformin.
We are all bad at times 🙂