Possible Steroid Induced Diabetes

[Loobyloo_xoxo]

So to start off with I'm severely asthmatic and require steroids multiple times a year often for long periods of time and my nurse has informed me that I'm taking too many steroids and that I'm at risk of Steroid Induced Diabetes. I have noticed that recently I've peeing more especially at night but during the day too, I've also been getting a really dry mouth which doesn't seem to go away no matter how much water I drink or how many mints I suck. Im pretty sure I've lost weight and I've not been trying because I've been suffering from Gastro issues and I've been trying to gain weight if possible and I've noticed that especially at night I'm very thirsty. I don't know if this is just coincidence or whether I should make an appointment to get checked out but I know I'm at increased risk of Type 2 as my Dad has it.

 

[ianf0ster]

Hi @Loobyloo_xo_xo
It's possible that it is coincidence, but personally I would ask GP for an HbA1C blood test to either rule out , or confirm diabetes.

 

[everydayupsanddowns]

Welcome to the forum @Loobyloo_xoxo

Sorry to hear about the symptoms you are experiencing.

I agree with @ianf0ster - the best bet is to ask your GP surgery to run an HbA1c check. This is a reflection of your general glucose levels 24/7 over the past 3-4 months, and is the current preferred diagnostic measure for determining diabetes.

It will usually involve a vial of blood from the arm being sent to a lab, and results generally take around 3-7 days to come back.

 

[Inka]

It could just be the steroids causing the dry mouth @Loobyloo_xoxo I have asthma and allergies and find I get a very dry mouth, like all through my head too, if that makes sense. For me, it’s a side effect of the meds.

I see you’ve been worried about diabetes before and your previous HbA1C tests have been normal. It would be worth having another test to hopefully put your mind at rest. If your nurse is concerned about the amount of steroids you’re taking, maybe they could work with you to see if they can be reduced or time-limited, or whether other options are available for you.

 

[Inka]

How are you @Loobyloo_xoxo ? Did you manage to get a medication review and/or an HbA1C?