Travel

[Carole Waterworth]

Hi Folks

I'm recently diagnosed, still don't know if type 1 or 2, but am injecting 4 times per day.I'm just about coming to terms with the emotional side of the disease but am struggling a bit with the practical aspects. I am going on holiday shortly and have purchased a diabetic bag to carry all my equipment but I don't know what to put in it to keep the insulin cool. Do I just use one of those blocks {usually blue} that you use for frozen food etc? or a gelpack similar to those you use for injuries??

 

[Northerner]

Hi Folks

I'm recently diagnosed, still don't know if type 1 or 2, but am injecting 4 times per day.I'm just about coming to terms with the emotional side of the disease but am struggling a bit with the practical aspects. I am going on holiday shortly and have purchased a diabetic bag to carry all my equipment but I don't know what to put in it to keep the insulin cool. Do I just use one of those blocks {usually blue} that you use for frozen food etc? or a gelpack similar to those you use for injuries??

Hi Carole, welcome to the forum 🙂 I wouldn't recommend using one of this blocks as they might make the insulin too cold. What many people use is a 'Frio' bag - this is a special pouch that contains a gel. You soak it in water then it gradually cools through evaporation. They come in various sizes, so you can pick one that suits your needs 🙂 (Click on 'Frio' for a link to the amazon listing for an example) 🙂

 

[stephknits]

If you are going on an aeroplane, remember to keep all your supplies including spare everything with you. The insulin won't be ok in the hold and you don't want your supplies in a case that could go missing. The Frio pouches are excellent. Also, do get a letter from your gp/DSN explaining about your diabetes in case you are asked (I never have been) and take a list of your prescriptions just in case.
Welcome and I hope you enjoy your break🙂

 

[Carole Waterworth]

Hi Folks

I'm recently diagnosed, still don't know if type 1 or 2, but am injecting 4 times per day.I'm just about coming to terms with the emotional side of the disease but am struggling a bit with the practical aspects. I am going on holiday shortly and have purchased a diabetic bag to carry all my equipment but I don't know what to put in it to keep the insulin cool. Do I just use one of those blocks {usually blue} that you use for frozen food etc? or a gelpack similar to those you use for injuries??

 

[Carole Waterworth]

Thanks guys for your speedy replies and the lovely welcomes! As I said I'm new to diabetes (diagnosed after being rushed into hospital) and I don't mind admitting I've found it rather overwhelming and a little scary. It's only been 5 weeks so there's still the tiniest hint of denial lingering in the background amid the odd bout of tears. It's such a complex disease and there's so much to learn. It's a bit like when you come home with your newborn for the first time and stand in your front room thinking what do I do now?!! I'm sure it will become 2nd nature before too long. So, thanks for the information, help and tips, it's all extremely helpful and re-assuring. It was also very thoughtful to put the Frio link in, you must have heard about my lack of technical skills ha, ha! It's very comforting to know that there's help here should I need it- I'm sure I'll be back!!

 

[stephknits]

I love your analogy about bringing home the newborn - very apt! You are quite right, it's very complex and we are all still learning - but this is a great place to do it. How did you come to be diagnosed and are you having tests to establish what type you are?

 

[Carole Waterworth]

I love your analogy about bringing home the newborn - very apt! You are quite right, it's very complex and we are all still learning - but this is a great place to do it. How did you come to be diagnosed and are you having tests to establish what type you are?

It's a strange one! When having annual thyroid check up in Nov I was told I was Diabetic, type 2, albeit only just. The doctor told me I didn't need medication, to go away, lose weight and come back in 3 months as I may not have it any longer. I lost some weight but then in Jan my eyesight started acting up, suddenly after wearing glasses for 50 years I didn't need them any more. The optician confirmed a huge myopic shift and sent me to the doctor. When I rang for blood test results, expecting that I had reversed the "only just" diabetes I was told my sugar levels had almost trebled-how on earth does that happen?! Anyway, I was prescribed Metmorphin but as I was just going off to Budapest for 5 days and hearing of the side effects I chose to delay taking them until I got back. At this time I was starting also to have dreadful night cramps in my shins and was drinking far more than usual. By the end of the 5 days I could hardly talk, my mouth was so dry that my lips kept sticking to my gums, I could hardly put one foot in front of the other and I was losing 2-3 llbs a day.Upon my return I stayed in bed for 2 days (Sat and Sun) My partner took me to the doctor as soon as they opened on Monday, he sent me straight to hospital where I stayed for 6 days. So although initially it was type 2, consultant said I seemed to present more as type 1. Apparently they won't know until this certain blood test result comes back - I'm told this could take a couple of months yet!. I just wish things would settle as I've had another huge myopic shift the other way and need to wear 2 sometimes 3 pairs of glasses on to read!! Sorry to go on, you probably regret asking!

 

[Northerner]

It's a strange one! When having annual thyroid check up in Nov I was told I was Diabetic, type 2, albeit only just. The doctor told me I didn't need medication, to go away, lose weight and come back in 3 months as I may not have it any longer. I lost some weight but then in Jan my eyesight started acting up, suddenly after wearing glasses for 50 years I didn't need them any more. The optician confirmed a huge myopic shift and sent me to the doctor. When I rang for blood test results, expecting that I had reversed the "only just" diabetes I was told my sugar levels had almost trebled-how on earth does that happen?! Anyway, I was prescribed Metmorphin but as I was just going off to Budapest for 5 days and hearing of the side effects I chose to delay taking them until I got back. At this time I was starting also to have dreadful night cramps in my shins and was drinking far more than usual. By the end of the 5 days I could hardly talk, my mouth was so dry that my lips kept sticking to my gums, I could hardly put one foot in front of the other and I was losing 2-3 llbs a day.Upon my return I stayed in bed for 2 days (Sat and Sun) My partner took me to the doctor as soon as they opened on Monday, he sent me straight to hospital where I stayed for 6 days. So although initially it was type 2, consultant said I seemed to present more as type 1. Apparently they won't know until this certain blood test result comes back - I'm told this could take a couple of months yet!. I just wish things would settle as I've had another huge myopic shift the other way and need to wear 2 sometimes 3 pairs of glasses on to read!! Sorry to go on, you probably regret asking!

It's good to hear that they have recognised the possibility of Type 1 - it certainly sounds like it to me from what you describe. Really good news that they have put you on insulin. Hope your trip goes well and you are able to enjoy it, despite all this to deal with 🙂 Remember to carry some hypo treatments with you at all times 🙂 Let us know how things go!

 

[Carole Waterworth]

Doing a trial run today with a train journey to Manchester and an overnight stay - feel a little nervous as I haven't really been out since I left hospital- my house has been a bit of a "comfy blanket". Yes, hypo gear packed as we speak, and fingers crossed as if all goes well then I won't be worried about going on my holiday. Thanks again for your support.🙂

 

[Northerner]

Doing a trial run today with a train journey to Manchester and an overnight stay - feel a little nervous as I haven't really been out since I left hospital- my house has been a bit of a "comfy blanket". Yes, hypo gear packed as we speak, and fingers crossed as if all goes well then I won't be worried about going on my holiday. Thanks again for your support.🙂

That's a great idea Carole, hopefully will iron out any potential problems 🙂

 

[SB2015]

Doing a trial run today with a train journey to Manchester and an overnight stay - feel a little nervous as I haven't really been out since I left hospital- my house has been a bit of a "comfy blanket". Yes, hypo gear packed as we speak, and fingers crossed as if all goes well then I won't be worried about going on my holiday. Thanks again for your support.🙂

Good plan Carole. It is a bit daunting at the start, but you have spotted something that is worrying you and diong something about that. Step by step it all becomes the new ‘normal’ for each of us.

Let us know how you get on.

 

[PhoebeC]

Also if you are going to fly. Get a letter off your doctor about your meds etc. for the airport. I have to send a letter to my GP a few weeks before and he writes one confirming my diabetes and my medication along with my prescription.

Mine also says I need fast acting glucose and a snack on my person just incase.

 

[stephknits]

best of luck with your trip and overnight stay. As Northerner says - I would be surprised if not Type 1. Let us know how you get on and thanks for telling your story - always really good to have as they can help others on the forum.

 

[Carole Waterworth]

Hi folks

Trial run was a success with no problems at all- made it, phew!!
I now have my Frio packs, Myabetic travel carry bag, letter and medication list from the doctor so am all set (thanks everyone for all your help with this).

On the down side I was very tearful yesterday. Don't know if anyone has come across this but I'm having real problems with my feet. At the beginning of this saga in Nov (in earlier post) I had explained to the doctor that on and off, for a while my feet had often felt cold even though my body was hot. They did some sort of circulation test with a feather I think and said all was ok. This all stopped whilst I was really poorly this year but is now back with a vengeance. It was so bad and persistent yesterday that I cried. Wearing socks made no difference so I don't think it is the cold. It is hard to describe, it's more of a sensation or awareness, a sort of pins and needles which is uncomfortable and almost painful. There is no numbness or lack of feeling. Has anyone experienced this?. I never knew this disease was so complex, it makes me fear what is yet to come.

 

[Northerner]

Hi folks

Trial run was a success with no problems at all- made it, phew!!
I now have my Frio packs, Myabetic travel carry bag, letter and medication list from the doctor so am all set (thanks everyone for all your help with this).

On the down side I was very tearful yesterday. Don't know if anyone has come across this but I'm having real problems with my feet. At the beginning of this saga in Nov (in earlier post) I had explained to the doctor that on and off, for a while my feet had often felt cold even though my body was hot. They did some sort of circulation test with a feather I think and said all was ok. This all stopped whilst I was really poorly this year but is now back with a vengeance. It was so bad and persistent yesterday that I cried. Wearing socks made no difference so I don't think it is the cold. It is hard to describe, it's more of a sensation or awareness, a sort of pins and needles which is uncomfortable and almost painful. There is no numbness or lack of feeling. Has anyone experienced this?. I never knew this disease was so complex, it makes me fear what is yet to come.

Hi Carole, great to hear that the trial run was a success! Now, don't forget to do everything you just did when you go away 'properly'! 🙂

Regarding the problem with your feet, I experienced something very similar in the first few months after diagnosis. My feet got very cold, even though I was diagnosed at the end of May and it was a hot summer! In fact, the cold was so bad that I developed chilblains for the first time since I was about 4 years old (I was 49 at diagnosis! 😱) I had my feet checkec by a podiatrist who assured me that circulation, sensitivity etc. were all fine. After a few months my feet were fine again, and although they do get cold - especially at night - it's no longer the problem it was.

Hopefully, this will be the same for you, so try not to worry, I think it may just be one of those things that happens when your body is adjusting to the changes it will be experiencing once insulin treatment has begun after what may have been many months of high blood sugars and insufficient insulin. Not pleasant, but should improve as your health improves 🙂

You should also know that, in almost 10 years of diabetes, I have not had any further problems with my feet, which are in perfect condition (my podiatrist told me so! 🙂)

 

[Carole Waterworth]

Hi Northerner- It's so re-assuring to hear that my foot problem may only be temporary as it really is uncomfortable- can't believe you actually got chilblains! Glad to hear that you feet problems are now a thing of the past.
Unfortunately diabetes has turned me into a worrier and a bit of an emotional wreck as it's given me so many things to worry about- as my daughter says I must learn to chill !
I had a complete meltdown last week when the chemist couldn't supply my needles. It started with my repeat prescription which stated "can't be re-ordered until 8th". So, ordered 8th (Sunday), should be processed Monday, should be available for pick up Wednesday I thought but they still couldn't get any by Friday night due to some distribution problem. By Saturday morning I had 1 needle left (I've read everywhere that they can only be used once) so I reasoned that I could go without breakfast and delay my morning injection until later in the day. The doctors was shut as was the hospital diabetes helpline and clinic. I rang 111 for advice and got a message saying it's best to ring after 12. I then went to the hospital's urgent care who said they couldn't help and directed me to A&E who couldn't help me either. I had no idea what to do so went along to the diabetes ward to be told they can't just give needles out to anyone and anyway they wouldn't have the right ones. I left in tears, totally distraught with no idea what to do. I went home and decided I could have the 1 injection with my 1 needle but give myself my 3 doses in one and worry about the next day when it came. My partner stopped me doing so saying he thought that could be dangerous. He then rang the chemist and told them politely but firmly that they had a duty to try and find some as I couldn't be left in this position. The pharmacist duly found me one box at another chemist so I just had to collect my prescription from him and take it to the one who could provide them. It was an absolute nightmare! In the meantime I bought some from the internet (2 weeks delivery though) which I didn't think I'd be able to do so at least I'll have an emergency stash to ensure that this never, ever happens again, it's far too stressful!
I'm sure things can only get better!

 

[SB2015]

Just a thought for another time. I know that they tell you to use each needle just once, but .... I bet I am not the only one who used to just put the cap back on and use it again. I certainly used the same needle for at least a whole day. I did make sure that I primed before each injection. However I obviously can’t suggest that you should reuse needles! I certainly would do so if I was running out.

For my finger pricker I only change the needle when I find it hurts a lot and then remember that I should have changed it a while back. I do now try to remember to wind onto the next one in the cartridge when I redo my meds box each Sunday.

 

[Northerner]

Hi Northerner- It's so re-assuring to hear that my foot problem may only be temporary as it really is uncomfortable- can't believe you actually got chilblains! Glad to hear that you feet problems are now a thing of the past.
Unfortunately diabetes has turned me into a worrier and a bit of an emotional wreck as it's given me so many things to worry about- as my daughter says I must learn to chill !
I had a complete meltdown last week when the chemist couldn't supply my needles. It started with my repeat prescription which stated "can't be re-ordered until 8th". So, ordered 8th (Sunday), should be processed Monday, should be available for pick up Wednesday I thought but they still couldn't get any by Friday night due to some distribution problem. By Saturday morning I had 1 needle left (I've read everywhere that they can only be used once) so I reasoned that I could go without breakfast and delay my morning injection until later in the day. The doctors was shut as was the hospital diabetes helpline and clinic. I rang 111 for advice and got a message saying it's best to ring after 12. I then went to the hospital's urgent care who said they couldn't help and directed me to A&E who couldn't help me either. I had no idea what to do so went along to the diabetes ward to be told they can't just give needles out to anyone and anyway they wouldn't have the right ones. I left in tears, totally distraught with no idea what to do. I went home and decided I could have the 1 injection with my 1 needle but give myself my 3 doses in one and worry about the next day when it came. My partner stopped me doing so saying he thought that could be dangerous. He then rang the chemist and told them politely but firmly that they had a duty to try and find some as I couldn't be left in this position. The pharmacist duly found me one box at another chemist so I just had to collect my prescription from him and take it to the one who could provide them. It was an absolute nightmare! In the meantime I bought some from the internet (2 weeks delivery though) which I didn't think I'd be able to do so at least I'll have an emergency stash to ensure that this never, ever happens again, it's far too stressful!
I'm sure things can only get better!

I'm really sorry to hear this Carole You really should not have had to go through all this Yes, you can reuse needles, although it's preferable not to as they do get blunt quite quickly. Some people only use one needle per pen 😱 I've always preferred a fresh needle every time, although the hospital left me in a worrying position too when they only gave me 3 needles when I was discharged. I hadn't been to my GP in years and knew nothing about getting prescriptions etc. - frustrating how everyone seems to assume that you know what to do! I didn't even know that my prescriptions were free (very thankful for that!).

I would have a word with your GP about your prescriptions (or get your DSN/Consultant to have a word). You can't be left in a position where you don't have the necessary supplies - you cannot wait (as you have found) a few days for a prescription to be filled if you run out. They should either issue you with a large amount of each item per prescription, not just the 'minimum' you might need, because being without the wherewithal to inject insulin you are in a potentially life-threatening situation - they have to realise this - or let you put in prescriptions as and when required. I get 200 needles and 300 test strips per prescription, and I can put my prescriptions in as required. You can't predict whether you might get through your prescribed amount more quickly one month, possibly due to increased testing/corrections/needing more insulin, it's not like taking a pill every day and that's that!

Have a good talk with your GP and make sure you are never left in this position again. I'm really surprised that no-one could supply you with the needles - DSNs usually have a small supply they can hand out (they have them if people want to try different needle sizes for example). Also, there is a Facebook group if you're on there called 'HELP! We forgot T1 Kit! UK' if you ever find yourself away from home without the necessary, where others will try and get what you need to you if you are in their area 🙂

I'm really pleased your partner stopped you from injecting 3 lots of insulin in one go! 😱 😱 😱 BIG hypo! 😱

Things will become more routine in time, honest! 🙂

 

[SB2015]

Good morning Carole
I hope that you have a more restful day today.

I had a few prescriptions changed by an automatic system in the early days as the 28 day rule was applied. As Northerner does, I now get my Diabetes stuff as and when it is required. As Northerner said, arrange an appointment with your GP and explain (don’t be surprised if they seem to know very little about T1) or write to the practice manager. A lack of supplies is life threatening for us so they need to sort things out.

 

[Carole Waterworth]

Thanks Northerner and SB2015. If I hadn't been in such a blind panic then I probably would have reasoned that I could use a needle again, after all, there's only me using it in a clean, sterile(ish) environment-I'll know better next time!

HELP-We forgot T1 Kit! UK- wow, that's absolutely amazing!!!

I haven't seen my GP since I came out of hospital at the end of Feb. He's been happy to leave me in the care of the Diabetic Clinic as Drs seem to acknowledge that they don't know enough about Diabetes. So I will make an appointment to i) if possible, get something to alleviate this discomfort in my feet and ii) discuss my medication requirements and customise my repeat prescription.
Yes, I'm sure I'll have a more restful day thanks, every time I get a solution to a problem life becomes a little easier. So, thanks again to you Guys and this site for giving me all this help, advice and support which I couldn't get from the professionals!🙂🙂