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Newly Diagnosed

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O

Oldelgin

New Member
Relationship to Diabetes
Type 2
Hi,
Just found out that I have Type2 on Friday, after being referred after an offshore medical. Took my first Metformin this morning.
Ive been monitoring my blood sugar since Saturday and its 6.3 - 9.9 thats with reducing my carb intake, do i need to take Metformin as my levels seem reasonable. I have been told I cant go back to work till it is under control. I dont see the diabetes clinic till 21st April.
 
Welcome to the forum.

I've a few questions:
How did you come to be diagnosed?
What was your Hba1c at diagnosis?
What's the dosage of metformin?
What do you do for work?
 
I had an annual offshore medical for work, sugar in my urine and BM 14.5 mmols
Report to my own Doctor and HbA1c - 58
500mg Metformin
I have worked offshore 35 years, now in jeopardy. Good all round health otherwise, Im 57 and not overweight, reasonably active. Total shock when I found out last week.
 
Firstly don't panic. 58 isn't that high at diagnosis and it's likely to be relatively simple to lower with a few changes to foodstuff (opting for lower carb choices).

Metformin is the first line in dealing with diabetes. It can cause some unpleasant side effects (it's got a nickname of 'metfartin') and if it does just ask your GP for the slow/modified release version and they'll usually cease.

It may be worth getting a Blood Glucose monitor so that you can test the impact of various foods and adjust accordingly. If you do buy one then watch the cost of the test strips because you'll get through loads of them.

There's no obvious reason why your diabetes will stop you working unless it's not under control or there's a specific clause in your contract of employment I guess.
 
Welcome to the forum @Oldelgin

Sorry to hear about your shock diagnosis.

Drs opinion seems to vary as to whether they would initiate Metformin at your HbA1c level. Some would suggest a period of diet and exercise first, others reach straight for the prescription pad to kickstart any BG improvement.

Metformin is usually gradually increased to reduce the risk of side effects, so any suggested increase doesn’t necessarily indicate a ‘worsening’ of your situation.

Metformin works by reducing insulin resistance, and by reducing glucose output from the liver rather than working directly on foods, so generally is felt to work away in the background rather than working directly on foods.

If you are concerned about your work situation, your rights under the Equalities Act, and any impact on your career following tour diagnosis please call the DUK helpline on 0345 123 2399 (Mon-Fri 9-6)
 
I got mine from 55mmol to 37 in 100 days by eating low carb, and less in quantity. Tried a bit of metformin modified release and it's much better than bog standard meformin.
 
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