When should I panic? waking BG 11.8

[David H]

I have been prescribed Steroids by an Ear Nose and Throat specialist who warned me that steroids will effect my BG readings.

Only started yesterday (taken second lot this morn) and have 7 more days to go (on reducing amounts 30mg - 10mg).

If 11.8 is my first waking reading what should I expect by day 8 and at what reading do I hit the Panic Button.

It should be said my normal waking is 6.3 - 6.8 !!!! (to my mind controlled)

I take Glucophage 500mg twice a day.

 

[Katieb]

I have been prescribed Steroids by an Ear Nose and Throat specialist who warned me that steroids will effect my BG readings.

Only started yesterday (taken second lot this morn) and have 7 more days to go (on reducing amounts 30mg - 10mg).

If 11.8 is my first waking reading what should I expect by day 8 and at what reading do I hit the Panic Button.

It should be said my normal waking is 6.3 - 6.8 !!!! (to my mind controlled)

I take Glucophage 500mg twice a day.

Sorry can be of no help to you David! I suppose at least you were forewarned (though that's of little consolation!). Is there anyone you can contact in an emergency for advice (ie my drs surgery is open Sat morning) or you could phone NHS direct, though all they will do is tell you to contact A & E if you become increasingly concerned? I hope someone else on forum can give you some reassurance. Katie

 

[cherrypie]

Hi David,

I occasionally have to endure a 6 week course of steroids on a sliding scale for a health problem.
I am not on medication but, during this time, am prescribed Metformin.
My G.P. gave me instructions that if my BS reached 15 or above to get in touch. If you are concerned then phone your surgery and speak to the out of hours Dr. or phone NHS Direct.
I have good control normally but during the six weeks it is all over the place and it is a worrying time. Sometimes Diabetes has to take a back seat whilst another health problem is dealt with.
Try not to get too stressed as that will raise your blood sugars. I would check more than normal and keep a record.
Hope this helps,

Maisie.

 

[Newtothis]

I have been prescribed Steroids by an Ear Nose and Throat specialist who warned me that steroids will effect my BG readings.

Only started yesterday (taken second lot this morn) and have 7 more days to go (on reducing amounts 30mg - 10mg).

If 11.8 is my first waking reading what should I expect by day 8 and at what reading do I hit the Panic Button.

It should be said my normal waking is 6.3 - 6.8 !!!! (to my mind controlled)

I take Glucophage 500mg twice a day.

Hi David, I would say if you're concerned then just contact NHS Direct who can give advice? Always go with your gut-feeling. If you have a walk-in Centre just pop along -its best to get some reassurance so that you're not overly worried for the whole period of taking the medication. 🙂

 

[Copepod]

Not sure of equivalent of NHS Direct in Republic of Ireland, but advice to contact GP, if concerned, is still valid.

I'd continue to monitor waking blood glucose levels, which should be highest when your steroid dose is highest, so they should start to reduce by Monday. If they continue to raise, or you have any worries, then you need to make use of whatever out of hours cover you have - GP / A&E etc.

 

[David H]

Thanks for all the replies, I checked 2 hrs after a big breakfast and it had only risen to 11.9 ??

Maybe I was too quick to test this morning about 10 after I woke, coupled with the fact I had a very late dinner yesterday (10pm) may have contributed to the 11.8 this morning.