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Shiny new diabetic

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Sam!!!!

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Hi all
I had routine bloods done as part of a medication review and I got a call on the same day to discuss results a couple of days later. That’s odd, we usually have to call them so I knew something wasn’t right. Turns out my results show diabetes. I don’t have many of the symptoms so they’ve asked for more urgent bloods just to confirm but it’s looking very likely. My hba1c IFCC standardised levels are 81.
If the bloods confirm what we know then they say I need to start meds before I go away. I have a big holiday planned to America in a week, they’ve said it’s absolutely fine that I go but I’m a bit concerned starting meds so close to going away (assuming I’ll start them mid way through next week) ..I’ve seen the side effects of these meds can be pretty bad.
I’ve not had any info on diabetes yet, so I think I have a lot of research and learning to do in a very short space of time

This is one of those holidays that have been booked and changed multiple times over the last couple of years, We’re so close now I don’t want this to ruin it! Although obviously I can’t stuff my face like I was planning to
 
My hba1c was 83 without 'traditional' symptoms (And also found during a routine blood test).

What medication are you on? I was put on 1000mg of Metformin and had no side effects at all, not everyone does.

Going away should be fine. I have just been to Spain and found eating 'low carb' was very easy as most of the restaurants there have plenty of dishes with fish or meat and I asked them to add extra salad instead of potato. One Chinese restaurant even made up their dishes with custom sauces without sugar in them for me. I'd recommend getting a blood glucose tester or getting a free Libre sensor (If you have time) so you can see how the food affects you over there. They offer a trial of one and it lasts two weeks.

I got my hba1c down very quickly, which is not recommended - take it slowly.
 
Hi Sam, welcome to the forum. My HbA1c was 82 initially, then 80 when I was officially diagnosed. I know it's a bit daunting at first.
The first medication they'll try you on is likely to be metformin (I'm assuming you're a type 2 diabetic). One of the main side effects is that it can upset some people's tummies. This is in about 10% of people who take it, so you're more likely to be unaffected. I was completely unaffected by it, but some people really don't get on with the medication. When you're prescribed, tell the GP/nurse that you're about to go on your holidays and you're worried about starting metformin and can you have the slow release version or start on the lowest dose so your body can get used to it? They're meant to start a low dose first, then increase it. I was on 2 x 500mg of metformin a day and started on 1 tablet a day for the first couple of weeks.

As regards food on your holiday, I agree with Harbottle's advice; maybe go for burgers without buns, or just eat the bottom bit of bread, or have the meal with salad instead of chips/fries etc, and try and step away from the tempting sweet stuff. It's carbs that put your blood sugar up, but like Harbottle says, put the brakes on slowly now and reappraise where you are when you get back from your trip.

I hope you have a lovely holiday, Sarah
 
Welcome! My top tip was to avoid beige food and lager. Vodka and slim tonic and lots of protein and green things will help. You might want to use my fitness pal to see how much you are eating - try to keep carbs to about 100g-130g a day max.
 
Hi Sam!!!!, welcome to the forum.

It's tricky when first diagnosed to figure out which changes to make but slow and steady wins the race so don't feel as though you have to get it right within the next ew weeks.

Have a chat with your GP about the potential side effects and ask what the options may be. It can take 3 or more months to see the impact of your changes so things like choosing meat and veg where possible, doing some physical activity and reducing sugar in your diet can go a long way.

Above all, enjoy your holiday as stress can impact blood sugar also so it'll be good to have a good time on holiday and come back refreshed and ready to embark on your new journey. We'll be right here to support you when you get back.
 
Hi all, thanks for the replies.
Yes I have insurance, I’m assuming I’ll need to let them know beforehand once I get an official diagnosis.. but yes, I’m insured.

Thanks for the advice, as it’s all so brand new there’s so much to learn!

I keep thinking of things that’s ‘wrong’ with me and after a quick Google each time it seems it can all be linked to diabetes so although it’s all so daunting, I’m excited to get on track and hopefully feel a bit better.

Once again, thanks for the comments, support and advice
 
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