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Could this be diabetes?

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Posted 1/12/2010 8:19 PM (GMT 0)

Hi All!  I am new to this forum, but I have been lurking for a bit and it seems like there is a lot of good information here.  I have had occasional episodes of low blood sugar (headache, shaking, nausea, feeling like I'm going to pass out) if I go too long without eating for the last several years.  As time goes on this seems to be getting worse.   For the last few months I have been feeling bad pretty much every day.  I feel the worst in the morning, I feel lightheaded and kind of disoriented, nauseated, and headachy, especially if I go any longer than 2 hours between meals.    It is very hard for me to focus at work.  I try to nibble all morning, but I probably eat too many carbohydrates.    I usually feel better after lunch, but I still need to eat every 2 hours.   Anyway, this is making life difficult and I was wondering if this could be diabetes (or prediabetes)?  I know that I should call my doctor, but I was wondering what people who had experience living with this thought.  (My doctor doesn't exactly have the greatest bedside manner, and rushes patients in and out!)  Thanks in advance for your help!  smilewinkgrin

Posted 1/12/2010 10:13 PM (GMT 0)
It could be but I think you already know that the only way to know for sure is having some blood tests.  Sorry about your doctor's manner but you need to make an app't and have this checked out.  Sometimes pharmacies have free minor health checks, like blood pressure and blood sugar.  Maybe you could have your blood sugar tested at one.  In any case, please go to the doctor to be checked out.
Posted 1/13/2010 12:07 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks Lanie, I know you are right. I am a person who hates going to the doctor. I really just wanted to know if anyone who had experience with this thought it was a possibility.

Big E, actually this is the first time I've ever used a chat board. But thanks so much for your kind response.
Posted 1/13/2010 1:10 AM (GMT 0)
smich, you could test your own blood sugar if you get your own meter.  Some companies send them free with about 10 test strips - but when the test strips are finished, you have to buy more, so if your insurance would cover them, then you'd need to be evaluated by the doctor and have labs done.  Hypoglycemia can be helped by eating often as you're doing and also drinking some orange juice or eating candy but this kind of behavior is not how to deal with a health issue.  I'm sure you already know this.  In the meantime, it would help to write down these symptoms, time, when you'd eaten, etc. and show the doctor.  And please see your doctor, ok?
Posted 1/13/2010 6:16 PM (GMT 0)
Sounds like it COULD be diabetes-related but it could also be something entirely different; allergies for example (like to mould) or even digestive issues can cause some of your symptoms. The only one to help you figure it out for sure is your doc. He knows your medical history and will be the one to make the best assessment of what tests should be run.

The only way to know if your symptoms are blood sugar related is to test your blood. Do you have a meter? Guessing is irrelevant. Trust me. I test multiple times a day and I'm more often then not surprised at the number.

There is no logical reason to wait:
Call your doc right now and make an appointment on the grounds that you are currently experiencing acute and debilitating symptoms on a daily basis and need to discuss the possibilities as soon as possible. Tell your doc just what you've told us and that you think it might be diabetes-related. Looking at your medical history, he may have some other areas he might want to address and then all the appropriate tests should be ordered. Make the follow-up appointment before you leave so that you can discuss the results as soon as possible. Go from there and try not to worry in the meantime. Let us know how it works out.
Posted 1/13/2010 7:10 PM (GMT 0)
smich,
I'm not a doc but your symptoms certainly do warrant a doctor visit as others have said. Even if you are not facing diabetes, I'd rethink the present doctor you have. A doctor is supposed to be your partner in health care not someone who doesn't have time for you. As you age your health may require more trips to the doc and you want someone who is on your side. Try talking to your friends and neighbors and see if you can't find who they are happy with and perhaps change practices.

Either that or you will have to ask your doctor to take more time with you because of your health concerns.

Good luck with this.
Posted 1/20/2010 2:20 PM (GMT 0)
Dear Smich,
I feel bad that you have a dr. you are not comfortable approaching about a legitimate medical concern such as this.. Is there any chance you could look into getting a different dr.. ? It might be that the quickest way to be seen now is to go to the one you already have, but for later, there are other drs out there who take the time for you and make you feel you can have an appt when you need one.
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