New to this and new to diabetes

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rhysio

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So I have been back and forth the doctors about what was suspected skin infection, turns out had an allergic reaction to a horsefly fly bite, which caused an infection.

In looking into my records my GP notices that 6 years ago (at a previous GP surgery) I was classed as pe diabetic, however no one had decided to tell me .

After a few more chats and tests turned out as of yesterday I am officially type 2 diabetic.

Isit normal to feel annoyed at this?
 
Yes, very normal. Sadly this type of thing is all too normal.
For me it was kidneys, in august 2023 the hospital suggested a follow up blood test due to low eGFR, it was some time later I found I'd had a low measurement for that in May 2021.
We are not alone in this, there have been others.

Welcome to the forum. Please feel free to ask questions, some lovely knowledgable person will be able to assist
BTW did they tell you your HBA1C, or start you on meds, if you wished to share details that could help folks in answering any queries you may have.
 
rhysio said:
So I have been back and forth the doctors about what was suspected skin infection, turns out had an allergic reaction to a horsefly fly bite, which caused an infection.

In looking into my records my GP notices that 6 years ago (at a previous GP surgery) I was classed as pe diabetic, however no one had decided to tell me .

After a few more chats and tests turned out as of yesterday I am officially type 2 diabetic.

Isit normal to feel annoyed at this?
Click to expand...
Probably yes... alas
 
Sadly, as the NHS is so stretched, in recent years, "concerning" results of regular blood tests have been missed and not being followed up.
Those of us with the NHS app (I understand it is not available in Scotland) are able to check test results. Whenever I have blood or urine tests, I check the app every day for the next week until the results appear which is always way earlier than when I hear from the GP. Although the results are not easy to read and understand (the formatting is terrible and the terminology is often cryptic without Dr Google), they include the target ranges so I can quickly see where I am on the cusp or out of range.
Given managing diabetes is mostly self management, I now see this as part of that.
 
Mate - I've still got a scar on one ankle from an infected horsefly bite I got whilst camping with a group of cub scouts 35ish years ago, fortunately only very local infection here but that put me off mixing with those animals which I otherwise still love ever since unless I'm very well covered up. Just sympathies anyway.
 
So you have now got a diagnosis which is disappointing since you should have been gives a heads up to make some changes to prevent it but now you have there is plenty you can do about it. Were you told what your HbA1C is as that will indicate how far into the diabetic zone you are and how much work you will need to do and also if you have been prescribed any medication as that may influence what dietary approach will be suitable.
If you have only been advised to make dietary change or been prescribed metformin then a low carb approach is one many have found successful. Have a look at this link for good information and some menu plans https://lowcarbfreshwell.com/
Any other medication you may need to be more cautious.
 
helli said:
Sadly, as the NHS is so stretched, in recent years, "concerning" results of regular blood tests have been missed and not being followed up.
Those of us with the NHS app (I understand it is not available in Scotland) are able to check test results. Whenever I have blood or urine tests, I check the app every day for the next week until the results appear which is always way earlier than when I hear from the GP. Although the results are not easy to read and understand (the formatting is terrible and the terminology is often cryptic without Dr Google), they include the target ranges so I can quickly see where I am on the cusp or out of range.
Given managing diabetes is mostly self management, I now see this as part of that.
Click to expand...
I'm in Wales, I don't believe it is available here either
 
Leadinglights said:
So you have now got a diagnosis which is disappointing since you should have been gives a heads up to make some changes to prevent it but now you have there is plenty you can do about it. Were you told what your HbA1C is as that will indicate how far into the diabetic zone you are and how much work you will need to do and also if you have been prescribed any medication as that may influence what dietary approach will be suitable.
If you have only been advised to make dietary change or been prescribed metformin then a low carb approach is one many have found successful. Have a look at this link for good information and some menu plans https://lowcarbfreshwell.com/
Any other medication you may need to be more cautious.
Click to expand...
I was but didn't not take it in .I am on metformin and have a further appt Monday where I should learn more
 
I had a high glucose level flagged in a test 10 years before diagnosis it was dealt with by not doing the test again.
 
rhysio said:
I was but didn't not take it in .I am on metformin and have a further appt Monday where I should learn more
Click to expand...
It is important to find out as that gives you an idea of your starting point and how much you need to do. Do have a look at the Freshwell introduction as it explains why the program was developed and may prompt you with questions for your appointment. It can be useful to take a note book so you can dot things down as it is easy to forget when you are there.
 
rhysio said:
So I have been back and forth the doctors about what was suspected skin infection, turns out had an allergic reaction to a horsefly fly bite, which caused an infection.

In looking into my records my GP notices that 6 years ago (at a previous GP surgery) I was classed as pe diabetic, however no one had decided to tell me .

After a few more chats and tests turned out as of yesterday I am officially type 2 diabetic.

Isit normal to feel annoyed at this?
Click to expand...
I think so, yes. It might not have changed things but, equally, it might and I think annoyance is a valid response.

Getting this diagnosis is an emotional rollercoaster. I've known for a couple weeks - I feel as though sometimes I'm fine and positive about the changes I can make to manage this. Other days I feel as though I'm going through the stages of grief multiple times.
 
rhysio said:
So I have been back and forth the doctors about what was suspected skin infection, turns out had an allergic reaction to a horsefly fly bite, which caused an infection.

In looking into my records my GP notices that 6 years ago (at a previous GP surgery) I was classed as pe diabetic, however no one had decided to tell me .

After a few more chats and tests turned out as of yesterday I am officially type 2 diabetic.

Isit normal to feel annoyed at this?
Click to expand...
This happened to me, I tested as pre diabetic 3 years ago but wasn't told at the time. By November 23 my hba1c was 98.
GP surgery couldn't explain why I hadn't been notified and there were no online results at that time
 
Well - being diagnosed with a chronic medical condition DOES lead to a grieving period and much like when a relative or pet pops their clogs, gradually the grief dies down and you only remember the things that are still relevant now. Important thing right now is not spend time dwelling on what wasn't done, that's like yesterday, gone and you can't change that fact so don't waste your energy on it!
 
Hi @rhysio and welcome!

I'm sorry to hear you're one of the many people who unfortunately sometimes fall through the gaps in the system. I second the advice to bring in something to take notes and come in with a couple of questions to get you started. There will be a lot of info here in the forum and other platforms and you'll be able to learn from others, however your practice should set you on the right path and at least give you clarity on your test results.

As for your annoyance - definitely normal. It's unfair and frustrating, so you're right in feeling this way. However as @trophywench has said - you have to move forward. Step by step, small goals, ideas, habits... Whatever it will take you. And always remember - we're here to support you!
 
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