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MedHelp's What To Do Guide
Hello there!
I want to start off by thanking all of you for the time investment, support, and advice that you have offered to those belonging to this community. It is because of you that MedHelp not only continues to grow, but also remains a leader in the online health community. We care very much about the conditions that are discussed in the Type II Diabetes forum and would like to provide a new service for users that are new to this community. I am employed by MedHelp and we are planning to develop a kind of "What To Do Guide" for those that have been recently diagnosed with Type II Diabetes and are looking for the support and advice that you have been so grateful to share. This guide will be tailored to the needs of those new to the forum, but will also have references that even our most active users will find useful.
If you would be so kind as to reply to this post regarding the most important, vital information that those who have been recently diagnosed with Type II Diabetes should be aware of, we would greatly appreciate it. Thank you in advance for your input and we hope, as you do, that you will continue to be a source of knowledge and information for others.
Thank you,
Darren
I want to start off by thanking all of you for the time investment, support, and advice that you have offered to those belonging to this community. It is because of you that MedHelp not only continues to grow, but also remains a leader in the online health community. We care very much about the conditions that are discussed in the Type II Diabetes forum and would like to provide a new service for users that are new to this community. I am employed by MedHelp and we are planning to develop a kind of "What To Do Guide" for those that have been recently diagnosed with Type II Diabetes and are looking for the support and advice that you have been so grateful to share. This guide will be tailored to the needs of those new to the forum, but will also have references that even our most active users will find useful.
If you would be so kind as to reply to this post regarding the most important, vital information that those who have been recently diagnosed with Type II Diabetes should be aware of, we would greatly appreciate it. Thank you in advance for your input and we hope, as you do, that you will continue to be a source of knowledge and information for others.
Thank you,
Darren
Good luck, Joycekatherine. Just FYI I made a list of five factors that I knew made me LADA and brought them to my endo. (By that point I KNEW what my diagnosis was, but still wanted to hear it confirmed.)
My list is:
Lost 40 pounds before and after diagnosis
Have another autoimmune disease (Grave's Thyroid)
Oral meds stopped working in just a year.
Low c-peptide
Insulin sensitive (no resistence)
My list is:
Lost 40 pounds before and after diagnosis
Have another autoimmune disease (Grave's Thyroid)
Oral meds stopped working in just a year.
Low c-peptide
Insulin sensitive (no resistence)
I was diagnosed with Type 2. The Type 1.5 makes a lot of sense to me because I have read on MH that autoimmunes usually come in 2's or more and I am having a lot of symptoms of Sjogren's Syndrome, dry eyes and dry mouth for years, and also having Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, they are both autoimmune. I am seeing an Endo on 6/24 and crossing my fingers that he will be a good one and will unravel this whole thing!! Oh, almost forgot, I am also having thyroid problems, ie. nodules and enlargement, which I understand may also be autoimmune...I just don't understand why doctors are not more knowledgeable about autoimmune diseases/disorders, when the tests to confirm are so easy to do...and it would seem that autoimmunes are not really that rare...just boggles the mind...thanks for the info about 1.5, I'm sure I will discuss this with the Endo in time. ;)
No, they didn't know about LADA 27 years ago. A nurse friend of mine says there have always been Type 2's that did not seem to fit the mold, but they didn't recognize it as a different diagnosis. Technically they still don't but a correct diagnosis will result in Type 1 as opposed to Type 2 diagnosis (which is what my endo has given me because LADA is not official to the ADA or AMA yet). LADA stands for Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults. The key difference between LADA and the Type 2 most LADAs get pinned with mistakenly is that LADA is an autoimmune disease and Type 2 is not; in that sense it is much more closely related to Type 1.
I'm confused, you were diagnosed as Type 2 or Type 1? The main difference between LADA and Type 1 is that LADA's have a slower rate at which the antibodies destroy their beta cells than Type 1's, so they often continue to have off and on pancreas function for quite awhile while Type 1's have none. This is why they can be mistaken for Type 2's and do well for a period of a year or more on oral meds; their pancreas is still producing some insulin.
I'm confused, you were diagnosed as Type 2 or Type 1? The main difference between LADA and Type 1 is that LADA's have a slower rate at which the antibodies destroy their beta cells than Type 1's, so they often continue to have off and on pancreas function for quite awhile while Type 1's have none. This is why they can be mistaken for Type 2's and do well for a period of a year or more on oral meds; their pancreas is still producing some insulin.
I am intrigued by your comment about Type 1.5 LADA...I was diagnosed about 27 yrs ago and I was not 30 yet...could that mean that I was Type 1.5 LADA????? Was this a known diagnosis back then or is this a newer type of dx??? And what does the LADA stand for???
Why can't we edit posts?? One more thing: Learn to identify the symptoms that you have when your blood sugar is too low. We all experience it differently. If it is low (some treat below 70, some below 60) have treatments readily available. Many people use glucose tabs that you can buy in the drugstore. Some people prefer orange juice, raisins or other fast-acting carbs. It is not a good idea to get in the habit of using candy, cake or soda. Don't overtreat because then you will go high (become hyperglycemic). You will find out what works for you, whether it is 1/2 C of OJ or 2-3 glucose tabs. Test again in 20 minutes to see what effect the treatment has had on your glucose. If you are very low, or if you take insulin, you might want to back up this quick-acting carb with something more slow-acting such as a piece of bread so you don't go low again.
If you are newly diagnosed with Type II diabetes, first off, don't panic. You have probably heard horror stories about the complications that can result from diabetes. These complications are often the result of long-term uncontrolled blood sugars. You can learn how to keep your blood sugars in target range the majority of the time.
The key word is "learn". Diabetes is a complex condition that has nearly as many different variables as there are diabetics. Management takes place on many levels and is best accomplished by a team of which the central person, the director and producer if you will is...you. You need to assemble your team thoughtfully. Some people are managed by their PCP, others by an endocrinologist. What matters most is that the doctor you choose be willing to take the time to work with you, to explain things in a way you can understand, and to respond to your questions and input. Other people on that team might include a Diabetic Educator and/or a Nutritionist. They are trained to spend time with you educating you about managing your diabetes and working on the nuts and bolts of that management.
But I strongly urge you to educate yourself. Doctors, especially in the U.S. are constrained by Managed Care to spend a limited time with you and to share with you only the information that is approved by the ADA (American Diabetes Association) and the AMA (American Medical Association). Because things change at a snail's pace, many of the official information put out by these organizations is many year's behind. Read and do your homework and talk to other more experienced diabetics on several excellent websites.
As a Type II the first thing you need to do is to make sure you ARE a Type 2! 15-20% of people diagnosed as Type II are in fact Type 1.5 LADA. I know I am one of them. Question your diagnosis, especially if you are younger, normal weight or less, have lost significant weight recently, have been on oral meds for less than 4 years and are told you now need insulin, or have an autoimmune disorder such as Thyroid. The tests to differentiate between Type II and Type 1 (LADA) are a c-peptide and antibody tests.
The second thing you need to do is learn about the affect of diet and nutrition on blood glucose. Many people are able to control Type II diabetes for a year or several years with diet and exercise alone. If you are overweight, begin a program of weight loss, that too will greatly affect your management of your Type II diabetes.
The next most important thing to do is test, test, test. The diabetics who manage their condition the best are the ones who test regularly. If your doctor says you only "need" to test once a day, realize this is a bare minimum and is not good enough. Testing your fasting blood sugar when you get up and two hours after each meal will give you a good view of how your are controlling your blood sugar. The tests after meals (called post prandial) will give you lots of information as to how different foods affect your blood sugar so that you can fine-tune your diet.
I already said "learn about diabetes" but I will say it again! It is your body and your life. If you ignore your diabetes, it will not go away and the possible complications are very serious. But the more you know the better able you are to succesfully manage your diabetes and live a full and satisfying life.
The key word is "learn". Diabetes is a complex condition that has nearly as many different variables as there are diabetics. Management takes place on many levels and is best accomplished by a team of which the central person, the director and producer if you will is...you. You need to assemble your team thoughtfully. Some people are managed by their PCP, others by an endocrinologist. What matters most is that the doctor you choose be willing to take the time to work with you, to explain things in a way you can understand, and to respond to your questions and input. Other people on that team might include a Diabetic Educator and/or a Nutritionist. They are trained to spend time with you educating you about managing your diabetes and working on the nuts and bolts of that management.
But I strongly urge you to educate yourself. Doctors, especially in the U.S. are constrained by Managed Care to spend a limited time with you and to share with you only the information that is approved by the ADA (American Diabetes Association) and the AMA (American Medical Association). Because things change at a snail's pace, many of the official information put out by these organizations is many year's behind. Read and do your homework and talk to other more experienced diabetics on several excellent websites.
As a Type II the first thing you need to do is to make sure you ARE a Type 2! 15-20% of people diagnosed as Type II are in fact Type 1.5 LADA. I know I am one of them. Question your diagnosis, especially if you are younger, normal weight or less, have lost significant weight recently, have been on oral meds for less than 4 years and are told you now need insulin, or have an autoimmune disorder such as Thyroid. The tests to differentiate between Type II and Type 1 (LADA) are a c-peptide and antibody tests.
The second thing you need to do is learn about the affect of diet and nutrition on blood glucose. Many people are able to control Type II diabetes for a year or several years with diet and exercise alone. If you are overweight, begin a program of weight loss, that too will greatly affect your management of your Type II diabetes.
The next most important thing to do is test, test, test. The diabetics who manage their condition the best are the ones who test regularly. If your doctor says you only "need" to test once a day, realize this is a bare minimum and is not good enough. Testing your fasting blood sugar when you get up and two hours after each meal will give you a good view of how your are controlling your blood sugar. The tests after meals (called post prandial) will give you lots of information as to how different foods affect your blood sugar so that you can fine-tune your diet.
I already said "learn about diabetes" but I will say it again! It is your body and your life. If you ignore your diabetes, it will not go away and the possible complications are very serious. But the more you know the better able you are to succesfully manage your diabetes and live a full and satisfying life.
Everyone so far has given great tips!! I have 2...well maybe 3...
1) Your life is not over, eventually, You will be in control of Diabetes, not vice versa
2) I feel that it is extremely important for newbies to know the signs of bottoming out
and their family and friends need to know this too. I was never told that this could
happen and the first time it did I thought I was dying and was scared half to death.
3) Newbies should be aware of the different glucometers that they can get for free and
and that test strips are costly with a lot of brands. Your insurance may cover them.
1) Your life is not over, eventually, You will be in control of Diabetes, not vice versa
2) I feel that it is extremely important for newbies to know the signs of bottoming out
and their family and friends need to know this too. I was never told that this could
happen and the first time it did I thought I was dying and was scared half to death.
3) Newbies should be aware of the different glucometers that they can get for free and
and that test strips are costly with a lot of brands. Your insurance may cover them.
Here's my 2¢. The following is mostly geared towards Type 2 Diabetics yet type 1’s and type 1.5 (LADA) patients may also benefit.
Medications are also central to controlling type 2 diabetes for many people. Doctors may prescribe oral medicines (those taken by mouth), insulin, or a combination of both, as needed. People with type 2 diabetes may not need to take diabetes medications if they can reach glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol goals through meal planning, eating the right foods, and physical activity.
Drugs. Understand your diabetes medication. Understand the side effects and interactions, if any, with any medication or supplement that you may be taking. A good reference web site is http://www.drugs.com/ If you are unsure of the interactions of your drugs, supplements, and OTC drugs ask your local pharmacist for a consultation.
Eye exams. People with type 2 diabetes should have an eye exam every year to check for retinopathy.
Kidney check. A yearly urine test for a protein called albumin will show whether your kidneys are affected by type 2 diabetes.
Foot care. Type 2 diabetes can reduce blood supply to arms and legs, and cause numbness in the feet. People with diabetes should check their feet every day and watch for any redness or patches of heat. Sores, blisters, breaks in the skin, infections, or build-up of calluses should be checked right away by a doctor
Foods. Research diabetes recipes; eat more vegetables and eat less red meat. Eat fruits but not alone. Eat with something else to lessen the absorption of fructose (fruit sugar). Test before and after eating fruits. Not all diabetics can eat fruits without their glucose rising. Eat healthy, live well, thrive.
Medications are also central to controlling type 2 diabetes for many people. Doctors may prescribe oral medicines (those taken by mouth), insulin, or a combination of both, as needed. People with type 2 diabetes may not need to take diabetes medications if they can reach glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol goals through meal planning, eating the right foods, and physical activity.
Drugs. Understand your diabetes medication. Understand the side effects and interactions, if any, with any medication or supplement that you may be taking. A good reference web site is http://www.drugs.com/ If you are unsure of the interactions of your drugs, supplements, and OTC drugs ask your local pharmacist for a consultation.
Eye exams. People with type 2 diabetes should have an eye exam every year to check for retinopathy.
Kidney check. A yearly urine test for a protein called albumin will show whether your kidneys are affected by type 2 diabetes.
Foot care. Type 2 diabetes can reduce blood supply to arms and legs, and cause numbness in the feet. People with diabetes should check their feet every day and watch for any redness or patches of heat. Sores, blisters, breaks in the skin, infections, or build-up of calluses should be checked right away by a doctor
Foods. Research diabetes recipes; eat more vegetables and eat less red meat. Eat fruits but not alone. Eat with something else to lessen the absorption of fructose (fruit sugar). Test before and after eating fruits. Not all diabetics can eat fruits without their glucose rising. Eat healthy, live well, thrive.
You double posted but this one has a thumbtack so I'll respond here. I'm on a break so I don't have much time to think this all the way thorough to provide in-depth answers. However, here are a few of my thoughts:
When it comes to diabetes management, blood sugar control is often the central theme. After all, keeping your blood sugar level within your target range can help you live a long and healthy life with diabetes. But do you know what makes your blood sugar level rise and fall? Or when to test?
Food:
1. Be consistent. Eat the same amount at the same of day.
2. Learn to eat healthy by proper nutrition.
3. If Type 1, eat small portions often and throughout the day to keep your glucose from falling below normal.
4. Watch your carb intake. Understand your good carbs vs bad carbs. Google search to find out.
5. Don’t eat junk foods
6. Understand and learn the Glycemic Index
7. Coordinate your foods with your medication. Too little food may cause your blood sugar to go low and create a hypoglycemic condition. Too much will raise your glucose levels and create a hyperglycemic condition.
8. If you’re diagnosed as Type 2, avoid sugar at all cost. Use something like Granulate Splenda instead.
9. Read all labels on packages and canned goods. Most are loaded with sugar.
10. Keep a log of what you eat. Wheh you test you'll which foods affect in a positive or negative manner.
Exercise:
1. When you exercise, your muscles use sugar (glucose) for energy. Regular physical activity also improves your body's response to insulin.
2. Go for walk after your eat. Don’t stroll, walk 30 minutes like you’re late for an appointment or late catching your plane.
Weight:
1. By all means keep your weight at normal levels. Lose it if you’re overweight. You'll be surprised how many type 2's have reversed their diabetes by shedding those extra pounds.
Glucose [blood sugar] meter:
1. Buy a reputable one
2. Read and follow the instructions on use and care
3. If it requires calibration do so as recommended, especially with test strips.
4. Be certain you have the correct measurement scale set; mg/dl or mmol/l
5. Keep a log of your results and reference it with your food log
When it comes to diabetes management, blood sugar control is often the central theme. After all, keeping your blood sugar level within your target range can help you live a long and healthy life with diabetes. But do you know what makes your blood sugar level rise and fall? Or when to test?
Food:
1. Be consistent. Eat the same amount at the same of day.
2. Learn to eat healthy by proper nutrition.
3. If Type 1, eat small portions often and throughout the day to keep your glucose from falling below normal.
4. Watch your carb intake. Understand your good carbs vs bad carbs. Google search to find out.
5. Don’t eat junk foods
6. Understand and learn the Glycemic Index
7. Coordinate your foods with your medication. Too little food may cause your blood sugar to go low and create a hypoglycemic condition. Too much will raise your glucose levels and create a hyperglycemic condition.
8. If you’re diagnosed as Type 2, avoid sugar at all cost. Use something like Granulate Splenda instead.
9. Read all labels on packages and canned goods. Most are loaded with sugar.
10. Keep a log of what you eat. Wheh you test you'll which foods affect in a positive or negative manner.
Exercise:
1. When you exercise, your muscles use sugar (glucose) for energy. Regular physical activity also improves your body's response to insulin.
2. Go for walk after your eat. Don’t stroll, walk 30 minutes like you’re late for an appointment or late catching your plane.
Weight:
1. By all means keep your weight at normal levels. Lose it if you’re overweight. You'll be surprised how many type 2's have reversed their diabetes by shedding those extra pounds.
Glucose [blood sugar] meter:
1. Buy a reputable one
2. Read and follow the instructions on use and care
3. If it requires calibration do so as recommended, especially with test strips.
4. Be certain you have the correct measurement scale set; mg/dl or mmol/l
5. Keep a log of your results and reference it with your food log
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