Greetings from an Undiagnosed Newbie

Question:

First, I would like to extend my sincere greetings to the group, and for all of the information I have garnered by lurking the past couple of weeks, offer my utmost thanks! Second… this is my very first posting to a newsgroup, so I hope I am doing this properly. To offer some background on myself… I am male, 49 years old, 6′, 300# and a smoker, and due to a work injury, a retired auto mechanic and now a ‘house-husband’, married for 27 wonderful years. I’ve always enjoyed good health, till back in ’82 when Dr’s treated me after suffering a mini Cerebral Vascular Accident or stroke, which my Dr. said was brought about by stress. I initially suffered partial paralysis on my left side, loss of clear speech and such, but thru mostly home therapy and determination, I was able to regain most of my physical abilities, can walk but not run, swim, was able to work again after 1.75 years of recovery… up until my leg and back injury forced me into early retirement. My mother’s father, now deceased, was type II diabetic. No other references to diabetes in my family history are known. Two months ago, after a lengthy discussion on diabetes with my neighbor, who is Type II diabetic, I learned that I may be diabetic as well. We discussed the symptoms and the physical troubles he suffers due to this disease, and after hearing that I too had some of the symptoms and troubles, to which I initially attributed to other causes, he gave me his spare MediSense Precision QID Test kit. He taught me how to use the meter, and explained the prescribed testing times, for instance… how to do a Fasting Blood Glucose Test, testing just before and then again 2 hrs after meals, and at bedtime. My symptoms and troubles are constant thirst and urination (no ‘frequency’ about it), a weak / washed out / no energy kind of feeling, a tingling and an over-sensitivity in fingers and toes, feet and hands, numbness in my left hand, and a burning or freezing feeling in the soles of my feet. Of late, frequent bouts of nausea, slightly blurred vision, and I now often experience leg spasms in the evening and while sleeping. From my testing, I’ve found my BG readings to be markedly higher than normal. Following the above testing procedures, my daily BG averages are between 239.4 and 289.8 mg/dl, with a total overall average of 248.64 mg/dl since Aug. 01. My FBGT’s are 217, 199, 221, and 196.4 mg/dl, also since Aug. 01. My neighbor advised me to see a Dr. as soon as I could, but continue to test my blood thru out the course of the day and record them, so that when I did see the Dr., I could provide that information to him and aid in my diagnosis. I’ve been using Jim Berry’s BG Tracker 4 to log my test results, events, etc. It’s an excellent program, my thanks to Jim Berry for this wonderful work. We’re new to our particular area, and we have no health insurance, so it took a while to search out a new Dr., and finally, now have an appointment for next week. I guess I’m past the ‘denial’ part of this… because I actually made the appointment. To clear up some of what I’ve read both here in the group and on the web, if I may… I do have some questions. I realize some of these may be difficult to answer definitively, so any information or experiences will be much appreciated. I apologize if some of these have been recently asked and answered. What test should I ask the Dr. for, or better… see that he asks for? Random Plasma Glucose Test, Fasting Plasma Glucose Test, HBA1C, Oral Glucose Tolerance Test, Urine Test, Lipids Panel, or all of the above? Which of the above tests are the most definitive in diagnosing diabetes, and which test determines type I from type II? 1.) A rough idea of what these test might cost? This one is difficult due to all the variables, but if some of you have an approximate figure. 2.) How much per month or per year will meds, test materials, etc. cost someone without insurance? 3.) Do all diabetics require pills or insulin injections to control diabetes, or can a change in diet taking no meds at all control diabetes, particularly with BG’s like mine? 4.) Can these troubles (ie: the tingling, numbness, spasms, etc.) be reversed thru the meds I might be taking for my diabetes, or at least, once I get my BG under control, via a change in diet without meds? In closing… I thank all of you who have shared their experiences here in the group, my most humble thanks to all of you that reply to my questions and posting, House-mouse

Response:

I’m glad your neighbor brought it to your attention. It sounds like he was concerned. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> My symptoms and troubles are constant thirst and urination (no > ‘frequency’ about it), a weak / washed out / no energy kind of > feeling, a tingling and an over-sensitivity in fingers and toes, feet > and hands, numbness in my left hand, and a burning or freezing feeling > in the soles of my feet. Of late, frequent bouts of nausea, slightly > blurred vision, and I now often experience leg spasms in the evening > and while sleeping. > From my testing, I’ve found my BG readings to be markedly higher than > normal. Following the above testing procedures, my daily BG averages > are between 239.4 and 289.8 mg/dl, with a total overall average of > 248.64 mg/dl since Aug. 01. My FBGT’s are 217, 199, 221, and 196.4 > mg/dl, also since Aug. 01. My neighbor advised me to see a Dr. as > soon as I could, but continue to test my blood thru out the course of > the day and record them, so that when I did see the Dr., I could > provide that information to him and aid in my diagnosis. I’ve been > using Jim Berry’s BG Tracker 4 to log my test results, events, etc. > It’s an excellent program, my thanks to Jim Berry for this wonderful > work.

Blood glucose is way too high. > We’re new to our particular area, and we have no health insurance, so > it took a while to search out a new Dr., and finally, now have an > appointment for next week. I guess I’m past the ‘denial’ part of > this… because I actually made the appointment.

Even without health insurance, you can’t afford NOT to get it taken care of. The longer you delay, the more complications, the more expense. Better or take an aggressive approach to treatment. It will cost less in the end. Strips will be the biggie. I use the Wal Mart Relion meter. The meter is about 9$ and the strips are around 42 for 100. It’s half the cost of other meters. It is the most vital tool you will own in the fight against this illness. > To clear up some of what I’ve read both here in the group and on the > web, if I may… I do have some questions. I realize some of these > may be difficult to answer definitively, so any information or > experiences will be much appreciated. I apologize if some of these > have been recently asked and answered. > What test should I ask the Dr. for, or better… see that he asks for? > Random Plasma Glucose Test, Fasting Plasma Glucose Test, HBA1C, Oral > Glucose Tolerance Test, Urine Test, Lipids Panel, or all of the above?

Since you’ve already started recording your readings the necessary diagnostic test would be the Alc for starters. Then you want the urine, lipids, liver panel etc. These tests should be done every three months to start. I minimum of every 6mos. > Which of the above tests are the most definitive in diagnosing > diabetes, and which test determines type I from type II? > 1.) A rough idea of what these test might cost?

That’s depend upon where you live and where you go. Larger cities may have clinics that offer free or low cost services. Ask around. > This one is difficult due to all the variables, but if some of you > have an approximate figure. > 2.) How much per month or per year will meds, test materials, etc. > cost someone without insurance?

Again, depends upon meds. I think someone here posted a while back that $1400 per year would be about the minimum for decent care. > 3.) Do all diabetics require pills or insulin injections to control > diabetes, or can a change in diet taking no meds at all control > diabetes, particularly with BG’s like mine?

No not everyone does. You may have to use meds to begin with to get you readings back down. It can be done with diet and exercise. Meds or no, you need to make a committment to fighting this illness. > 4.) Can these troubles (ie: the tingling, numbness, spasms, etc.) be > reversed thru the meds I might be taking for my diabetes, or at least, > once I get my BG under control, via a change in diet without meds?

Not completely. It can be stopped though with good control. Your vision and the peeing should return to normal when you BG’s get back under control. > In closing… I thank all of you who have shared their experiences > here in the group, my most humble thanks to all of you that reply to > my questions and posting, > House-mouse

Keep posting. There’s a lot to learn but it can be done. c – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

<snip> > My symptoms and troubles are constant thirst and urination (no > ‘frequency’ about it), a weak / washed out / no energy kind of > feeling, a tingling and an over-sensitivity in fingers and toes, feet > and hands, numbness in my left hand, and a burning or freezing feeling > in the soles of my feet. Of late, frequent bouts of nausea, slightly > blurred vision, and I now often experience leg spasms in the evening > and while sleeping.

Get your BG (blood glucose) down and your symptoms may ease. > From my testing, I’ve found my BG readings to be markedly higher than > normal. Following the above testing procedures, my daily BG averages > are between 239.4 and 289.8 mg/dl, with a total overall average of > 248.64 mg/dl since Aug. 01. My FBGT’s are 217, 199, 221, and 196.4 > mg/dl, also since Aug. 01. My neighbor advised me to see a Dr. as > soon as I could, but continue to test my blood thru out the course of > the day and record them, so that when I did see the Dr., I could > provide that information to him and aid in my diagnosis. I’ve been > using Jim Berry’s BG Tracker 4 to log my test results, events, etc. > It’s an excellent program, my thanks to Jim Berry for this wonderful > work.

Good idea. But also cut back on the carbs. Do what you can to get your BG down now. > We’re new to our particular area, and we have no health insurance, so > it took a while to search out a new Dr., and finally, now have an > appointment for next week. I guess I’m past the ‘denial’ part of > this… because I actually made the appointment.

Good! > To clear up some of what I’ve read both here in the group and on the > web, if I may… I do have some questions. I realize some of these > may be difficult to answer definitively, so any information or > experiences will be much appreciated. I apologize if some of these > have been recently asked and answered. > What test should I ask the Dr. for, or better… see that he asks for? > Random Plasma Glucose Test, Fasting Plasma Glucose Test, HBA1C, Oral > Glucose Tolerance Test, Urine Test, Lipids Panel, or all of the above?

I don’t think you need to ask the Dr. for specific tests. Bring in the list of your BG readings and tell the Dr. your symptoms. You’ve already diagnosed yourself from your high readings. The Dr. may or may not want to do an additional test to cofirm this. In my case the Hba1C was what the Dr. used to diagnose. > Which of the above tests are the most definitive in diagnosing > diabetes, and which test determines type I from type II?

Depends on the person. Urine test and lipids panel do not diagnose diabetes. HbA1c is usually not used for diagnosis, but a high HbA1c would be used for diagnosis. > 1.) A rough idea of what these test might cost?

Can’t help you there. I just pay a percentage of what my insurance doesn’t pay. > This one is difficult due to all the variables, but if some of you > have an approximate figure. > 2.) How much per month or per year will meds, test materials, etc. > cost someone without insurance?

Again, can’t help you there. Sorry. > 3.) Do all diabetics require pills or insulin injections to control > diabetes, or can a change in diet taking no meds at all control > diabetes, particularly with BG’s like mine?

Some people can control with diet and exercise alone. Some need pills, and some need insulin or insulin and pills. But diet and exercise are vital for everyone. Also keep in mind that diabetes is an ever changing thing. I’ve been on pills, off, then back on again. > 4.) Can these troubles (ie: the tingling, numbness, spasms, etc.) be > reversed thru the meds I might be taking for my diabetes, or at least, > once I get my BG under control, via a change in diet without meds?

The symptoms you describe sound like Neuropathy caused by high BG. This can only be diagnosed by seeing a Neurologist. I find that keeping my BG <150 (preferably lower) makes the symptoms go away. I also take Evening Primrose Oil. Other treatments (that didn’t work for me) are low doses of anti-depressants and a ramping up program of Neurontin. > In closing… I thank all of you who have shared their experiences > here in the group, my most humble thanks to all of you that reply to > my questions and posting,

Welcome to the group! — Type 2 http://users.bestweb.net/~jbove/

Response:

house-mouse wrote in part … My symptoms and troubles are constant thirst and urination (no ‘frequency’ about it), a weak / washed out / no energy kind of feeling, a tingling and an over-sensitivity in fingers and toes, feet and hands, numbness in my left hand, and a burning or freezing feeling in the soles of my feet. Of late, frequent bouts of nausea, slightly blurred vision, and I now often experience leg spasms in the evening and while sleeping. From my testing, I’ve found my BG readings to be markedly higher than normal. Following the above testing procedures, my daily BG averages are between 239.4 and 289.8 mg/dl, with a total overall average of 248.64 mg/dl since Aug. 01. My FBGT’s are 217, 199, 221, and 196.4 mg/dl, also since Aug. 01. My neighbor advised me to see a Dr. as soon as I could, but continue to test my blood thru out the course of the day and record them, so that when I did see the Dr., I could provide that information to him and aid in my diagnosis. I’ve been using Jim Berry’s BG Tracker 4 to log my test results, events, etc. It’s an excellent program, my thanks to Jim Berry for this wonderful work. What test should I ask the Dr. for, or better… see that he asks for? Random Plasma Glucose Test, fasting Plasma Glucose Test, HBA1C, Oral Glucose Tolerance Test, Urine Test, Lipids Panel, or all of the above? Which of the above tests are the most definitive in diagnosing diabetes, and which test determines type I from type II? 1.) A rough idea of what these test might cost? This one is difficult due to all the variables, but if some of you have an approximate figure. 2.) How much per month or per year will meds, test materials, etc. cost someone without insurance? 3.) Do all diabetics require pills or insulin injections to control diabetes, or can a change in diet taking no meds at all control diabetes, particularly with BG’s like mine? 4.) Can these troubles (ie: the tingling, numbness, spasms, etc.) be reversed thru the meds I might be taking for my diabetes, or at least, once I get my BG under control, via a change in diet without meds? In closing… I thank all of you who have shared their experiences here in the group, my most humble thanks to all of you that reply to my questions and posting, House Mouse, Welcome and let me say that I’m sure there will be many more answers to follow mine. First and foremost, get to the doc as quickly as possible. Without going into all of the symptoms, let me say that you display nearly all of them. The tingling you feel is known as neuropathy and is caused by excessively high blood sugar levels. The good news is that, in most cases, it can be lessened or even reversed if blood sugars are brought back in line and kept there. As to what tests to get at the medical office, I would recommend a GTT (Glucose Tolerance Test) as well as an HbA1c (Hemoglobin Blood A1c) and an FBG (Fasting Blood Glucose) at a minimum. Your doc may want to do more depending on your medical history. Others in the group may have additional recommendations based on their personal experience. Not *all* diabetics require medication to control their diabetes. Some use diet and exercise only, while others use a combination of meds, diet, and exercise. The treatment is unique to each person and depends on your diabetes profile. If you respond well to diet and exercise or oral medication plus diet and exercise, you are probably a type 2. Again, your doctor will be able to determine this much better than anyone here on the group. What I’ve given you is just a start. Others will be along to add to what I’ve said. Again — Please, Please, for your sake. Get to the doc as soon as you can. I can’t stress this enough. We are all here for you. Write back and let us know how it is going. Arnie –

Response:

: First, I would like to extend my sincere greetings to the group, and : for all of the information I have garnered by lurking the past couple : of weeks, offer my utmost thanks! Second… this is my very first : posting to a newsgroup, so I hope I am doing this properly. : Welcome.. sorry you had to join us. : To offer some background on myself… I am male, 49 years old, 6′, : 300# and a smoker, and due to a work injury, a retired auto mechanic : and now a ‘house-husband’, married for 27 wonderful years. I’ve : always enjoyed good health, till back in ’82 when Dr’s treated me : after suffering a mini Cerebral Vascular Accident or stroke, which my : Dr. said was brought about by stress. I initially suffered partial : paralysis on my left side, loss of clear speech and such, but thru : mostly home therapy and determination, I was able to regain most of my : physical abilities, can walk but not run, swim, was able to work again : after 1.75 years of recovery… up until my leg and back injury forced : me into early retirement. My mother’s father, now deceased, was type : II diabetic. No other references to diabetes in my family history are : known. Bummer… sorry to hear that. : : Two months ago, after a lengthy discussion on diabetes with my : neighbor, who is Type II diabetic, I learned that I may be diabetic : as well. We discussed the symptoms and the physical troubles he : suffers due to this disease, and after hearing that I too had some of : the symptoms and troubles, to which I initially attributed to other : causes, he gave me his spare MediSense Precision QID Test kit. He : taught me how to use the meter, and explained the prescribed testing : times, for instance… how to do a Fasting Blood Glucose Test, testing : just before and then again 2 hrs after meals, and at bedtime. : good neighbor keep him around.. will be good to help you adjust and someone close to talk to about the ups and downs. : My symptoms and troubles are constant thirst and urination (no : ‘frequency’ about it), a weak / washed out / no energy kind of : feeling, a tingling and an over-sensitivity in fingers and toes, feet : and hands, numbness in my left hand, and a burning or freezing feeling : in the soles of my feet. Of late, frequent bouts of nausea, slightly : blurred vision, and I now often experience leg spasms in the evening : and while sleeping. : : From my testing, I’ve found my BG readings to be markedly higher than : normal. Following the above testing procedures, my daily BG averages : are between 239.4 and 289.8 mg/dl, with a total overall average of : 248.64 mg/dl since Aug. 01. My FBGT’s are 217, 199, 221, and 196.4 : mg/dl, also since Aug. 01. My neighbor advised me to see a Dr. as : soon as I could, but continue to test my blood thru out the course of : the day and record them, so that when I did see the Dr., I could : provide that information to him and aid in my diagnosis. I’ve been : using Jim Berry’s BG Tracker 4 to log my test results, events, etc. : It’s an excellent program, my thanks to Jim Berry for this wonderful : work. when you had the 289 should have gone to the ER. anything really over 250 should have emergency treatment initally. at 200 an ER would have diagnosed you at that point. thats good you’re logging. keep track of your foods, how you feel at each point.. take all records to the doctors with you. : : We’re new to our particular area, and we have no health insurance, so : it took a while to search out a new Dr., and finally, now have an : appointment for next week. I guess I’m past the ‘denial’ part of : this… because I actually made the appointment. : some never have denial. : To clear up some of what I’ve read both here in the group and on the : web, if I may… I do have some questions. I realize some of these : may be difficult to answer definitively, so any information or : experiences will be much appreciated. I apologize if some of these : have been recently asked and answered. : : What test should I ask the Dr. for, or better… see that he asks for? : Random Plasma Glucose Test, Fasting Plasma Glucose Test, HBA1C, Oral : Glucose Tolerance Test, Urine Test, Lipids Panel, or all of the above? Cost wise.. If you’re over 200 i’m sure the doctor will diagnose you at that point. They might also want a fasting glucose test., urine test to test for protein in the urine (kidney check) and Lipids Panel. The rest is a mute point. : : Which of the above tests are the most definitive in diagnosing : diabetes, and which test determines type I from type II? none of the above tests are to determine the two. you would need a c-peptide and GAD65, Insulin Antibodies, Islet Antibodies, Which mine ran about $590 just to tell me i was a LADA which I already knew from what I learned here and reading online. At your weight, you can almost bet the farm you are a T2, not a T1. : : 1.) A rough idea of what these test might cost? You’d have to call around to different labs. many will do a reduced rate for cash payments. But you’d prolly be looking at a couple hundred. : : This one is difficult due to all the variables, but if some of you : have an approximate figure. : 2.) How much per month or per year will meds, test materials, etc. : cost someone without insurance? depends upon the meds you will need. with a bit of weight loss you more then likely can do alot with diet & exercise (if able) otherwise. to give you an idea. here is my monthly breakdown. mind you i’m a t1. my monthly meds run $549.00 .. yes before my hubbys insurance kicked in after we moved, I did pay that for 7 months out of pocket. : : 3.) Do all diabetics require pills or insulin injections to control : diabetes, or can a change in diet taking no meds at all control : diabetes, particularly with BG’s like mine? Once you change your eating habits, exercise and perhaps take meds for a few months, your bg’s should go down quite a bit. Basically you want to "unstress" your system. You might need insulin for a few months to help get them back in order if you’re unable to exercise. (It don’t hurt.. I promise.. less pain then prickin your finger) : : 4.) Can these troubles (ie: the tingling, numbness, spasms, etc.) be : reversed thru the meds I might be taking for my diabetes, or at least, : once I get my BG under control, via a change in diet without meds? : Diet will be your biggest factor. Yes.. the tingling, numbness, spasms should decrease if not stop with control of your bg’s. : In closing… I thank all of you who have shared their experiences : here in the group, my most humble thanks to all of you that reply to : my questions and posting, : Keep asking questions.. find the need to vent.. feel free, we’ve all been where you are now. You can make it. It’s not that hard.. Once you adapt.. it’s almost second nature. Good Luck RK T1 – 5/00 : : House-mouse :

Response:

Hi House Mouse. Let’s assume you have diabetes, and with no insurance it can be tough, but I cut corners where I can and buy the vital stuff like strips to test often. The Relion Meter and strips from Wal-Mart are about the cheapest, or E-Bay. Also, after the initial work at the lab,(which varies from lab to lab, so ask the doctor to refer you to the cheapest one) you can buy the A1c over the counter from Walgreens and other places for about 20.00 and keep track of it yourself. I also avail myself of clinics that come to town for things like cholesterol screening at reasonable costs. I recently had a sonagram checking for aneurysms, a leg circulation test, and a carotid blood flow test for $99.00 from a mobile medical unit. All these things help, and if you tell the Doctor up front that you’re paying cash, many give discounts. I save as much money as I can and put it in a medical fund in case of emergency, and you want to make sure that you DON’T let something go such as a sore that doesn’t heal or something like that just because you don’t have insurance, so it’s best to have a little stashed for those times. Also, for some, losing weight helps with the amount of meds they have to take, and many have been able to be off them with diet and excercise. I follow a low carb diet and am not on meds at this time, but different diets work for different people, and some have to have meds. There are a lot of variables, so one size doesn’t fit all. I can tell you the the neuropathy in my feet is much better now that my numbers are better, but let the numbers go high and so does the pain. I’ve found expensive remedies like Capsaicin Cream and things like that to be pretty worthless, but I do take 2000 mg of Evening Primrose Oil a day and I think it helps. I’m sorry this is long, and I wish you the best. Keep us posted. — Cheri

Response:

This post not CC’d by email >First, I would like to extend my sincere greetings to the group, and >for all of the information I have garnered by lurking the past couple >of weeks, offer my utmost thanks!

G’day G’day House-mouse, Thanks, we appreciate you taking the time to get to know what is happening here before taking the plunge. > Second… this is my very first posting to a newsgroup, so I hope > I am doing this properly.

You are doing just fine … better than many. >To offer some background on myself… I am male, 49 years old, 6′, >300# and a smoker, and due to a work injury, a retired auto mechanic >and now a ‘house-husband’, married for 27 wonderful years. I’ve >always enjoyed good health, till back in ’82 when Dr’s treated me >after suffering a mini Cerebral Vascular Accident or stroke, which my >Dr. said was brought about by stress.

The doctors probably didn’t want to mention the smoking. It is a pretty touchy subject so even if they did it is not something one would recall. Smoking plays merry hell with the vascular system. Viagra is an add on sale for the tobacco industry. The only thing that surprises me is they don’t create a giant monopoly. It is fairly common knowledge that diabetics contribute majorly to the statistics on amputations. What is less well known is the smoking diabetics make up something like 90% of diabetic amputees. >I initially suffered partial >paralysis on my left side, loss of clear speech and such, but thru >mostly home therapy and determination, I was able to regain most of my >physical abilities, can walk but not run, swim, was able to work again >after 1.75 years of recovery… up until my leg and back injury forced >me into early retirement.

In New Zealand there is a program called Outward Bound. The participants man small sailing craft and do bush survival training. It all apparently started from an observation from World War 2 that it wasn’t the young and fit who survived in the lifeboats. The older crusty individuals with experiences of facing deprivation and meeting challenges did far better. What I am saying here is pretty simple. You have been through and ordeal. There is no fooling you or even needing to explain to you what is required to survive. You know that and were not found wanting. >My mother’s father, now deceased, was type >II diabetic. No other references to diabetes in my family history are >known. >Two months ago, after a lengthy discussion on diabetes with my >neighbor, who is Type II diabetic, I learned that I may be diabetic >as well.

Please convey our thanks to him. The government should hand out petrol vouchers. >We discussed the symptoms and the physical troubles he >suffers due to this disease, and after hearing that I too had some of >the symptoms and troubles, to which I initially attributed to other >causes, he gave me his spare MediSense Precision QID Test kit. He >taught me how to use the meter, and explained the prescribed testing >times, for instance… how to do a Fasting Blood Glucose Test, testing >just before and then again 2 hrs after meals, and at bedtime.

Brilliant. You have a good teacher. >My symptoms and troubles are constant thirst and urination (no >’frequency’ about it), a weak / washed out / no energy kind of >feeling, a tingling and an over-sensitivity in fingers and toes, feet >and hands, numbness in my left hand, and a burning or freezing feeling >in the soles of my feet. Of late, frequent bouts of nausea, slightly >blurred vision, and I now often experience leg spasms in the evening >and while sleeping. >From my testing, I’ve found my BG readings to be markedly higher than >normal. Following the above testing procedures, my daily BG averages >are between 239.4 and 289.8 mg/dl, with a total overall average of >248.64 mg/dl since Aug. 01. My FBGT’s are 217, 199, 221, and 196.4 >mg/dl, also since Aug. 01.

Two FBGTs over 126 is sufficient to diagnose T2 diabetes. Well to the club. The waiting list is long. No-one gets black balled and told they can’t belong if they qualify. >My neighbor advised me to see a Dr. as >soon as I could, but continue to test my blood thru out the course of >the day and record them, so that when I did see the Dr., I could >provide that information to him and aid in my diagnosis. I’ve been >using Jim Berry’s BG Tracker 4 to log my test results, events, etc. >It’s an excellent program, my thanks to Jim Berry for this wonderful >work. >We’re new to our particular area, and we have no health insurance, so >it took a while to search out a new Dr., and finally, now have an >appointment for next week. I guess I’m past the ‘denial’ part of >this… because I actually made the appointment.

Good on you. We all do denial. I did for about an hour last week. It didn’t seem to be leading in a healthy direction so I changed tack. >To clear up some of what I’ve read both here in the group and on the >web, if I may… I do have some questions. I realize some of these >may be difficult to answer definitively, so any information or >experiences will be much appreciated. I apologize if some of these >have been recently asked and answered.

No probs. Think of it this way. You lurked. You aren’t all that unique so there will be more lurkers out there wondering about the same questions. If no one dropped in and asked the questions how would they ever find out some of the answers. Of course by dropping in the big benefit is the answers get to be tailor made. >What test should I ask the Dr. for, or better… see that he asks for? >Random Plasma Glucose Test, Fasting Plasma Glucose Test, HBA1C, Oral >Glucose Tolerance Test, Urine Test, Lipids Panel, or all of the above?

You doctor is going to be the person who knows you best. I’d go for HbA1c (now called A1c), urine tests, lipids panel and blood pressure. IMHO you are way past the point where a oral glucose tolerance test is going to be meaningful. I only mention the tests at all because stumping up the cash is of concern. >Which of the above tests are the most definitive in diagnosing >diabetes, and which test determines type I from type II?

None of them do. Someone else will have to come up with an answer to that one. >1.) A rough idea of what these test might cost? >This one is difficult due to all the variables, but if some of you >have an approximate figure. >2.) How much per month or per year will meds, test materials, etc. >cost someone without insurance?

The NZ health system is different. Sorry can’t help. >3.) Do all diabetics require pills or insulin injections to control >diabetes, or can a change in diet taking no meds at all control >diabetes, particularly with BG’s like mine?

The hierarchy is a. diet b. diet plus exercise c. diet plus exercise plus oral med d. diet plus exercise plus insulin You might have to start with d and work you way back. >4.) Can these troubles (ie: the tingling, numbness, spasms, etc.) be >reversed thru the meds I might be taking for my diabetes, or at least, >once I get my BG under control, via a change in diet without meds?

Now that is a bit tricky. Some is reversible and some isn’t. It is hard to tell till you try. Let’s take vision for example. The vision might initially get more blurry as the blood glucose levels change but that passes as they stabilize. It happens so often it is just part of the process. If blood glucose levels aren’t brought down then eventually damage is done. Can you see there are two quite distinct situation even with eyes. Some temporary nuisance stuff and some bad ass permanent stuff earnestly to be avoided. >In closing… I thank all of you who have shared their experiences >here in the group, my most humble thanks to all of you that reply to >my questions and posting,

No probs. >House-mouse

Best wishes, — Quentin Grady ^ ^ / New Zealand, >#,#< [ / / "… and the blind dog was leading." http://homepages.paradise.net.nz/quentin

Response:

Welcome to the group. This is a great place to learn a lot, and two books that I found very helpful were Gretchen Becker’s Type 2 Diabetes the First Year and Diabetes for Dummies. One of the best pieces of advice I got was to eat to my meter. Test a lot at first and soon you’ll find out what you can and can’t eat by using your meter. I found it helpful to keep a log of food, exercise, and BG when I was first diagnosed, but I kept it simple. I bought an inexpensive, bright red 7′x5" notebook at the drugstore. It fit in my purse and the color helped me keep track of it in the clutter of my kitchen. I tried to write everything down as soon as I could, but if I forgot, I’d log it as soon as I remembered. I tried not to set myself up for failure by getting too compulsive about it. I figured whatever info I compiled was better than nothing. Will you be able to see a dietitian? Some are better than others, but at least for most people it is a starting point to customize your own food plan, which would include when and how many carbs to eat. In the meanwhile, test, test, test. This is the only way you’ll really find out how foods affect your blood glucose. Don’t know much about the cost of supplies, meds, etc. because I’m fortunate to have excellent insurance. Is there anyway you can get coverage before you get the formal diagnosis? I think with your numbers, your doc will probably put you on meds right away. Some folks have been able to get off meds with lifestyle changes. There’s a lot to learn, so don’t let yourself be overwhelmed. Good luck. — Best wishes Louise Type 2, controlling by diet and exercise

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -> First, I would like to extend my sincere greetings to the group, and > for all of the information I have garnered by lurking the past couple > of weeks, offer my utmost thanks! Second… this is my very first > posting to a newsgroup, so I hope I am doing this properly. > To offer some background on myself… I am male, 49 years old, 6′, > 300# and a smoker, and due to a work injury, a retired auto mechanic > and now a ‘house-husband’, married for 27 wonderful years. I’ve > always enjoyed good health, till back in ’82 when Dr’s treated me > after suffering a mini Cerebral Vascular Accident or stroke, which my > Dr. said was brought about by stress. I initially suffered partial > paralysis on my left side, loss of clear speech and such, but thru > mostly home therapy and determination, I was able to regain most of my > physical abilities, can walk but not run, swim, was able to work again > after 1.75 years of recovery… up until my leg and back injury forced > me into early retirement. My mother’s father, now deceased, was type > II diabetic. No other references to diabetes in my family history are > known. > Two months ago, after a lengthy discussion on diabetes with my > neighbor, who is Type II diabetic, I learned that I may be diabetic > as well. We discussed the symptoms and the physical troubles he > suffers due to this disease, and after hearing that I too had some of > the symptoms and troubles, to which I initially attributed to other > causes, he gave me his spare MediSense Precision QID Test kit. He > taught me how to use the meter, and explained the prescribed testing > times, for instance… how to do a Fasting Blood Glucose Test, testing > just before and then again 2 hrs after meals, and at bedtime. > My symptoms and troubles are constant thirst and urination (no > ‘frequency’ about it), a weak / washed out / no energy kind of > feeling, a tingling and an over-sensitivity in fingers and toes, feet > and hands, numbness in my left hand, and a burning or freezing feeling > in the soles of my feet. Of late, frequent bouts of nausea, slightly > blurred vision, and I now often experience leg spasms in the evening > and while sleeping. > From my testing, I’ve found my BG readings to be markedly higher than > normal. Following the above testing procedures, my daily BG averages > are between 239.4 and 289.8 mg/dl, with a total overall average of > 248.64 mg/dl since Aug. 01. My FBGT’s are 217, 199, 221, and 196.4 > mg/dl, also since Aug. 01. My neighbor advised me to see a Dr. as > soon as I could, but continue to test my blood thru out the course of > the day and record them, so that when I did see the Dr., I could > provide that information to him and aid in my diagnosis. I’ve been > using Jim Berry’s BG Tracker 4 to log my test results, events, etc. > It’s an excellent program, my thanks to Jim Berry for this wonderful > work. > We’re new to our particular area, and we have no health insurance, so > it took a while to search out a new Dr., and finally, now have an > appointment for next week. I guess I’m past the ‘denial’ part of > this… because I actually made the appointment. > To clear up some of what I’ve read both here in the group and on the > web, if I may… I do have some questions. I realize some of these > may be difficult to answer definitively, so any information or > experiences will be much appreciated. I apologize if some of these > have been recently asked and answered. > What test should I ask the Dr. for, or better… see that he asks for? > Random Plasma Glucose Test, Fasting Plasma Glucose Test, HBA1C, Oral > Glucose Tolerance Test, Urine Test, Lipids Panel, or all of the above? > Which of the above tests are the most definitive in diagnosing > diabetes, and which test determines type I from type II? > 1.) A rough idea of what these test might cost? > This one is difficult due to all the variables, but if some of you > have an approximate figure. > 2.) How much per month or per year will meds, test materials, etc. > cost someone without insurance? > 3.) Do all diabetics require pills or insulin injections to control > diabetes, or can a change in diet taking no meds at all control > diabetes, particularly with BG’s like mine? > 4.) Can these troubles (ie: the tingling, numbness, spasms, etc.) be > reversed thru the meds I might be taking for my diabetes, or at least, > once I get my BG under control, via a change in diet without meds? > In closing… I thank all of you who have shared their experiences > here in the group, my most humble thanks to all of you that reply to > my questions and posting, > House-mouse

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – >First, I would like to extend my sincere greetings to the group, and >for all of the information I have garnered by lurking the past couple >of weeks, offer my utmost thanks! Second… this is my very first >posting to a newsgroup, so I hope I am doing this properly. >To offer some background on myself… I am male, 49 years old, 6′, >300# . . .(snip). . . >me into early retirement. My mother’s father, now deceased, was type >II diabetic. No other references to diabetes in my family history are >known. >, , ,(snip). . . >My symptoms and troubles are constant thirst and urination (no >’frequency’ about it), a weak / washed out / no energy kind of >feeling, a tingling and an over-sensitivity in fingers and toes, feet >and hands, numbness in my left hand, and a burning or freezing feeling >in the soles of my feet. Of late, frequent bouts of nausea, slightly >blurred vision, and I now often experience leg spasms in the evening >and while sleeping. >From my testing, I’ve found my BG readings to be markedly higher than >normal. Following the above testing procedures, my daily BG averages >are between 239.4 and 289.8 mg/dl, with a total overall average of >248.64 mg/dl since Aug. 01. My FBGT’s are 217, 199, 221, and 196.4 >mg/dl, also since Aug. 01. . .(snip). . . >We’re new to our particular area, and we have no health insurance, so >it took a while to search out a new Dr., and finally, now have an >appointment for next week. I guess I’m past the ‘denial’ part of >this… because I actually made the appointment. . . .(snip). . . >What test should I ask the Dr. for, or better… see that he asks for? >Random Plasma Glucose Test, Fasting Plasma Glucose Test, HBA1C, Oral >Glucose Tolerance Test, Urine Test, Lipids Panel, or all of the above? >Which of the above tests are the most definitive in diagnosing >diabetes, and which test determines type I from type II? >1.) A rough idea of what these test might cost? >This one is difficult due to all the variables, but if some of you >have an approximate figure. >2.) How much per month or per year will meds, test materials, etc. >cost someone without insurance? >3.) Do all diabetics require pills or insulin injections to control >diabetes, or can a change in diet taking no meds at all control >diabetes, particularly with BG’s like mine? >4.) Can these troubles (ie: the tingling, numbness, spasms, etc.) be >reversed thru the meds I might be taking for my diabetes, or at least, >once I get my BG under control, via a change in diet without meds? >In closing… I thank all of you who have shared their experiences >here in the group, my most humble thanks to all of you that reply to >my questions and posting, >House-mouse

Two tests over 200 mg/dL at different times, or different days coupled with any of the standard symptoms of diabetes (frequent urination, neuropathy, etc) are sufficient to diagnose diabetes. You have more than enough symptoms for a positive diagnosis. In general, your doc won’t need to do much at all other than the type of tests you have already run. He/she may ask for a fasting blood glucose to make certain but I wouldn’t expect much more. He/she may be interested in some urine tests to see if your kidneys have been damaged. You will also need a very thorough eye exam. Ask for a diabetes eye exam and make certain the eye doctor feels qualified to give a diabetic eye exam. The expensive opthamologists are the best but my optometrist is very good and I trust his exams. The easiest and simplest way to differentiate between a Type 1 and Type 2 is to try the oral meds and see if they work. Your weight and family history really points at Type 2 so most docs will skip the expensive lab tests designed to determine if you might be a Type 1. You probably are in initial Glucose Toxicity which hides the true severity of your diabetes. The best way to knock down the toxicity is with a strong dose of oral meds, perhaps in combo with insulin injections. Once your bG are normalized, the doc can see if the pills will work. If not, you will need insulin injections. The oral medication metformin is an anti-diabetes/ anti-heart attack med for Type 2 diabetics. The generic form is pretty cheap. You can get the maximum daily dose (2500 mg/day) for about ten cents a day if you can mail order from the Canadian pharmacies. The U.S. pharmacies are more expensive. You should definitely ask your doc for the generic metformin if the he/she suggests the expensive, brand name Glucophage. Its hard to tell how much the generic beta stimulators will cost. It really depends on how much you need. Ask your doc if you can use the Candadian mail order sources. They sell Glyburide in Canada. I’m not certain about Glicizide (Glucotrol). I have a friend who uses Glenway and is quite happy with them. http://glenwaypharmacy.com/ Perhaps some other posters could recommend some of the other Canadian Pharmacies. http://www.canadameds.com/ and http://www.canadadrugstop.com/ are possible candidates. I don’t think the Canadian mail order suppliers sell mail order insulins The cheapest U.S. insulins are about $17 to $23 a bottle at Wal-Mart (Regular, NPH and Ultralente). I can get by with two bottles a month, you might need 4 bottles since you are Type 2. Ultralente is better than NPH but a bit harder to inject. We can tell you how to use it if you are willing to try. Syringes would be another $20 a month if you use them 1 or 2 times, less if you can get by using each one 4 times before discarding. The expensive insulins (Humalog, Novolog, Lantus) cost $53-55 a vial. Again, you might get by with two vials a month, you might need 4 vials a month. Its hard to tell until you try them. The expensive insulins are the easiest to use though a Type 2 might get fairly good control with the simple shot patterns and cheap insulins. The best treatment for your numbness is to get your blood sugars into the normal ranges as fast as possible and keep them there. The most powerful yet inexpensive therapies are metformin, Glyburide and injected insulin in combination. A type 2 diabetic on insulin can achieve spectacular blood sugar control though the thought of all those injections is scary. (BTW, I am a Type 1 and am willing to inject 7 to 12 times a day in order to get good control. I don’t think it’s much of a bother at all.) Do your homework and try to get by with the generics from Canada and the cheap insulins from Wal-Mart. The Wal-Mart Relion test strips are about half the cost of any of the others. I find them acceptable to good. Keep coming back and be willing to learn all the tricks we use. Reading the two diabetic newsgroups (Alt.support.diabetes and misc.health.diabetes) every night has resulted in significant improvements in my health, my ability to eat a varied diet, and my general quality of life. I am certain it has also increased my expected life span. Regards Old Al

Response:

Salutations house-mouse! Every thing seems to have been said already. I can tell you that as soon as my wt. dropped below 255 from 264 (YMMV) my BG took an immediate 20-30 pt. drop.You really encourage me in a weird kinda way. I was just describing to my wife the denial that goes on at my HMO "Group Session". To hear someone actually getting it makes me less discouraged. Call a local hospital to see if they have a diabetes group to network with. You’re on the right path, keep the chin up! — t2_lurking geabbottATabbottandabbottDOTcom Do not mail to t2_lurking (auto-delete)

Response:

. . .(snip). . .. > The oral medication metformin is an anti-diabetes/ anti-heart attack med >for Type 2 diabetics. The generic form is pretty cheap. You can get the >maximum daily dose (2500 mg/day) for about ten cents a day if you can mail >order from the Canadian pharmacies. The U.S. pharmacies are more >expensive. You should definitely ask your doc for the generic metformin if >the he/she suggests the expensive, brand name Glucophage. >. . .(snip). . .>

Oops! That’s was supposed to say: "You can get the maximum daily dose (2500 mg/day) for about a dollar a day if you. . ." One of the problems with injecting insulin is that after shooting a bit too much before dinner, you may experience a bG somewhere around 50 mg/dL and thus your arithmetic and spelling skills go to H*ll. Regards Old Al

Response:

says… >First, I would like to extend my sincere greetings to the group, and >for all of the information I have garnered by lurking the past couple >of weeks, offer my utmost thanks! Second… this is my very first >posting to a newsgroup, so I hope I am doing this properly.

Hi, welcome to the group! Sorry to see you here… >To offer some background on myself… I am male, 49 years old, 6′, >300# and a smoker, and due to a work injury, a retired auto mechanic >and now a ‘house-husband’, married for 27 wonderful years. I’ve >always enjoyed good health, till back in ’82 when Dr’s treated me >after suffering a mini Cerebral Vascular Accident or stroke, which my >Dr. said was brought about by stress. I initially suffered partial >paralysis on my left side, loss of clear speech and such, but thru >mostly home therapy and determination, I was able to regain most of my >physical abilities, can walk but not run, swim, was able to work again >after 1.75 years of recovery… up until my leg and back injury forced >me into early retirement. My mother’s father, now deceased, was type >II diabetic. No other references to diabetes in my family history are >known.

It’s the known part that can throw you. It’s a bit like cancer; a hundred years ago, there was a sigma attached to having it, so people died of ‘heart failure’. >Two months ago, after a lengthy discussion on diabetes with my >neighbor, who is Type II diabetic, I learned that I may be diabetic >as well. We discussed the symptoms and the physical troubles he >suffers due to this disease, and after hearing that I too had some of >the symptoms and troubles, to which I initially attributed to other >causes, he gave me his spare MediSense Precision QID Test kit. He >taught me how to use the meter, and explained the prescribed testing >times, for instance… how to do a Fasting Blood Glucose Test, testing >just before and then again 2 hrs after meals, and at bedtime.

Woo, GOOD guy! Make sure to keep HIM on the Christmas list! >My symptoms and troubles are constant thirst and urination (no >’frequency’ about it), a weak / washed out / no energy kind of >feeling, a tingling and an over-sensitivity in fingers and toes, feet >and hands, numbness in my left hand, and a burning or freezing feeling >in the soles of my feet. Of late, frequent bouts of nausea, slightly >blurred vision, and I now often experience leg spasms in the evening >and while sleeping.

Yep, that’s the stuff all right. >From my testing, I’ve found my BG readings to be markedly higher than >normal. Following the above testing procedures, my daily BG averages >are between 239.4 and 289.8 mg/dl, with a total overall average of >248.64 mg/dl since Aug. 01. My FBGT’s are 217, 199, 221, and 196.4 >mg/dl, also since Aug. 01.

Yipe. Too high. > My neighbor advised me to see a Dr. as >soon as I could, but continue to test my blood thru out the course of >the day and record them, so that when I did see the Dr., I could >provide that information to him and aid in my diagnosis. I’ve been >using Jim Berry’s BG Tracker 4 to log my test results, events, etc. >It’s an excellent program, my thanks to Jim Berry for this wonderful >work. >We’re new to our particular area, and we have no health insurance, so >it took a while to search out a new Dr., and finally, now have an >appointment for next week. I guess I’m past the ‘denial’ part of >this… because I actually made the appointment.

Good for you! REALLY good for you. >To clear up some of what I’ve read both here in the group and on the >web, if I may… I do have some questions. I realize some of these >may be difficult to answer definitively, so any information or >experiences will be much appreciated. I apologize if some of these >have been recently asked and answered. >What test should I ask the Dr. for, or better… see that he asks for? >Random Plasma Glucose Test, Fasting Plasma Glucose Test, HBA1C, Oral >Glucose Tolerance Test, Urine Test, Lipids Panel, or all of the above?

He’ll probably want to do the A1c and to test your urine for the presence of proteins, which would mean your kidneys are being strained. He may decide to do others, too. And he’ll probably direct that you quit smoking and start losing weight, ASAP. >Which of the above tests are the most definitive in diagnosing >diabetes, and which test determines type I from type II?

A1c, and if you have not been diagnosed with diabetes before this you’re a type II. >1.) A rough idea of what these test might cost? >This one is difficult due to all the variables, but if some of you >have an approximate figure.

$50-100 dollars? >2.) How much per month or per year will meds, test materials, etc. >cost someone without insurance?

That’s a hard one to answer and will depend on what the doctor prescribes. Test strips will be a certain expense; imagine at least $50 a month. Medications… who knows? The type, amount, and number you have to take a day will determine that. It is possible the doctor might be willing to give you a monitor, test strips, and even sample meds in large enough quantity to reduce your costs. Let him know you’ve got no insurance and need all the help you can get. >3.) Do all diabetics require pills or insulin injections to control >diabetes, or can a change in diet taking no meds at all control >diabetes, particularly with BG’s like mine?

No, diet, exercise, and weight loss can control diabetes in many cases. But not ALL cases. >4.) Can these troubles (ie: the tingling, numbness, spasms, etc.) be >reversed thru the meds I might be taking for my diabetes, or at least, >once I get my BG under control, via a change in diet without meds?

Yes. Many symptoms of diabetes decrease once your bgs are under control. Note that I said the symptoms decrease. The diabetes never will, and is yours for all eternity. Warms the cockles of your heart, doesn’t it? >In closing… I thank all of you who have shared their experiences >here in the group, my most humble thanks to all of you that reply to >my questions and posting, >House-mouse

Certainly! Our pleasure! Or at least it would be if it were a happier topic… FW

Response:

Greetings House Mouse, Everyone has given you excelant advise. My motto is " I control diabetes, not diabetes controls me" Diet, exercise and meds work together. At first you are confused, and then ——- more confuser about diabetes. I was diagnosed Dec 2000 with a 386 reading. I was hypoglycemic for over 30 yrs and the symptoms are the same. I thought I was going hypo too much and was just feeding the diabetes I am in control now but the first year for me was a roller coaster ride . Some get control early but then I have to be differant like always. You can do it I promise. Keep the faith and follow the Dr’s advice. The one big thing that helped me besides this group and I am deeply humbled by all their help. is going to diabetic classes or clinic. Keep us posted and ask all the questions you want. There is someone here that probably has the answer by their own experiences. Oh, don’t eat honey, just because it is natural. Hee Hee Been Yours Ira The Big_I he is wide as he is tall. T2 my wife is a T2 diabetic we are trying to keep it in the family

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > says… >First, I would like to extend my sincere greetings to the group, and >for all of the information I have garnered by lurking the past couple >of weeks, offer my utmost thanks! Second… this is my very first >posting to a newsgroup, so I hope I am doing this properly. > Hi, welcome to the group! > Sorry to see you here… >To offer some background on myself… I am male, 49 years old, 6′, >300# and a smoker, and due to a work injury, a retired auto mechanic >and now a ‘house-husband’, married for 27 wonderful years. I’ve >always enjoyed good health, till back in ’82 when Dr’s treated me >after suffering a mini Cerebral Vascular Accident or stroke, which my >Dr. said was brought about by stress. I initially suffered partial >paralysis on my left side, loss of clear speech and such, but thru >mostly home therapy and determination, I was able to regain most of my >physical abilities, can walk but not run, swim, was able to work again >after 1.75 years of recovery… up until my leg and back injury forced >me into early retirement. My mother’s father, now deceased, was type >II diabetic. No other references to diabetes in my family history are >known. > It’s the known part that can throw you. It’s a bit like > cancer; a hundred years ago, there was a sigma attached > to having it, so people died of ‘heart failure’. >Two months ago, after a lengthy discussion on diabetes with my >neighbor, who is Type II diabetic, I learned that I may be diabetic >as well. We discussed the symptoms and the physical troubles he >suffers due to this disease, and after hearing that I too had some of >the symptoms and troubles, to which I initially attributed to other >causes, he gave me his spare MediSense Precision QID Test kit. He >taught me how to use the meter, and explained the prescribed testing >times, for instance… how to do a Fasting Blood Glucose Test, testing >just before and then again 2 hrs after meals, and at bedtime. > Woo, GOOD guy! Make sure to keep HIM on the Christmas list! >My symptoms and troubles are constant thirst and urination (no >’frequency’ about it), a weak / washed out / no energy kind of >feeling, a tingling and an over-sensitivity in fingers and toes, feet >and hands, numbness in my left hand, and a burning or freezing feeling >in the soles of my feet. Of late, frequent bouts of nausea, slightly >blurred vision, and I now often experience leg spasms in the evening >and while sleeping. > Yep, that’s the stuff all right. >From my testing, I’ve found my BG readings to be markedly higher than >normal. Following the above testing procedures, my daily BG averages >are between 239.4 and 289.8 mg/dl, with a total overall average of >248.64 mg/dl since Aug. 01. My FBGT’s are 217, 199, 221, and 196.4 >mg/dl, also since Aug. 01. > Yipe. > Too high. > My neighbor advised me to see a Dr. as >soon as I could, but continue to test my blood thru out the course of >the day and record them, so that when I did see the Dr., I could >provide that information to him and aid in my diagnosis. I’ve been >using Jim Berry’s BG Tracker 4 to log my test results, events, etc. >It’s an excellent program, my thanks to Jim Berry for this wonderful >work. >We’re new to our particular area, and we have no health insurance, so >it took a while to search out a new Dr., and finally, now have an >appointment for next week. I guess I’m past the ‘denial’ part of >this… because I actually made the appointment. > Good for you! > REALLY good for you. >To clear up some of what I’ve read both here in the group and on the >web, if I may… I do have some questions. I realize some of these >may be difficult to answer definitively, so any information or >experiences will be much appreciated. I apologize if some of these >have been recently asked and answered. >What test should I ask the Dr. for, or better… see that he asks for? >Random Plasma Glucose Test, Fasting Plasma Glucose Test, HBA1C, Oral >Glucose Tolerance Test, Urine Test, Lipids Panel, or all of the above? > He’ll probably want to do the A1c and to test your urine > for the presence of proteins, which would mean your kidneys are > being strained. He may decide to do others, too. > And he’ll probably direct that you quit smoking and start losing > weight, ASAP. >Which of the above tests are the most definitive in diagnosing >diabetes, and which test determines type I from type II? > A1c, and if you have not been diagnosed with diabetes before this > you’re a type II. >1.) A rough idea of what these test might cost? >This one is difficult due to all the variables, but if some of you >have an approximate figure. > $50-100 dollars? >2.) How much per month or per year will meds, test materials, etc. >cost someone without insurance? > That’s a hard one to answer and will depend on what the > doctor prescribes. Test strips will be a certain expense; > imagine at least $50 a month. Medications… who knows? > The type, amount, and number you have to take a day will > determine that. > It is possible the doctor might be willing to give you > a monitor, test strips, and even sample meds in large > enough quantity to reduce your costs. Let him know > you’ve got no insurance and need all the help you can get. >3.) Do all diabetics require pills or insulin injections to control >diabetes, or can a change in diet taking no meds at all control >diabetes, particularly with BG’s like mine? > No, diet, exercise, and weight loss can control diabetes in > many cases. > But not ALL cases. >4.) Can these troubles (ie: the tingling, numbness, spasms, etc.) be >reversed thru the meds I might be taking for my diabetes, or at least, >once I get my BG under control, via a change in diet without meds? > Yes. Many symptoms of diabetes decrease once your bgs are > under control. > Note that I said the symptoms decrease. The diabetes never > will, and is yours for all eternity. > Warms the cockles of your heart, doesn’t it? >In closing… I thank all of you who have shared their experiences >here in the group, my most humble thanks to all of you that reply to >my questions and posting, >House-mouse > Certainly! Our pleasure! > Or at least it would be if it were a happier topic… > FW

Response:

House mouse how brave of you to come out of the shadows and become part of the group, I am sorry but in my non professional opinion you are definitely a diabetic. You should get a fasting blood sugar after twelve hours, an A1c, they have dropped the hb and if needed a glucose tolerance test if nothing is conclusive, How much these tests are I have no idea, but they are not cheap Do you have a local municipal hospital that has a clinic you can go to. Are you eligible for any medicaid assistance as you do not work, Are you on ssd and eligible for medicare which you should be I think after a year of receiving disability from social security. This certainly needs to be taken care of, The blurries have gone away for me, reversal of kidney protein , I hear the tingles go away too Good luck and please keep us posted as to what is happening with regards toyour being diabetic or anything else you want toknow, We support the disease and the person. Loretta — In tribute to the United States of America and the State of Israel, two bastions of strength in a world filled with strife and terrorism.

Response:

I use the Wal Mart Relion meter Too . Strips are about $22.00 for 50 currently , if you dont want 100 at the start . I Like mine , and you Just Have-To-Have it with Blood Glucose Numbers like that . Another is coming in the mail from a friend , who already has about 5 Good BG Meters ! tim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Even without health insurance, you can’t afford NOT to get it taken care of. > The longer you delay, the more complications, the more expense. Better or > take an aggressive approach to treatment. It will cost less in the end. > Strips will be the biggie. I use the Wal Mart Relion meter. The meter is > about 9$ and the strips are around 42 for 100. It’s half the cost of other > meters. It is the most vital tool you will own in the fight against this > illness.

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Cheri , Very Good Post , you-sweetie-pie-you . :-) !!! tim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – > Hi House Mouse. Let’s assume you have diabetes, and with no insurance it > can be tough, but I cut corners where I can and buy the vital stuff like > strips to test often. The Relion Meter and strips from Wal-Mart are > about the cheapest, or E-Bay. Also, after the initial work at the > lab,(which varies from lab to lab, so ask the doctor to refer you to the > cheapest one) you can buy the A1c over the counter from Walgreens and > other places for about 20.00 and keep track of it yourself. I also avail > myself of clinics that come to town for things like cholesterol > screening at reasonable costs. I recently had a sonagram checking for > aneurysms, a leg circulation test, and a carotid blood flow test for > $99.00 from a mobile medical unit. All these things help, and if you > tell the Doctor up front that you’re paying cash, many give discounts. I > save as much money as I can and put it in a medical fund in case of > emergency, and you want to make sure that you DON’T let something go > such as a sore that doesn’t heal or something like that just because you > don’t have insurance, so it’s best to have a little stashed for those > times. > Also, for some, losing weight helps with the amount of meds they have to > take, and many have been able to be off them with diet and excercise. I > follow a low carb diet and am not on meds at this time, but different > diets work for different people, and some have to have meds. There are a > lot of variables, so one size doesn’t fit all. I can tell you the the > neuropathy in my feet is much better now that my numbers are better, but > let the numbers go high and so does the pain. I’ve found expensive > remedies like Capsaicin Cream and things like that to be pretty > worthless, but I do take 2000 mg of Evening Primrose Oil a day and I > think it helps. I’m sorry this is long, and I wish you the best. Keep us > posted. > — > Cheri >First, I would like to extend my sincere greetings to the group, and >for all of the information I have garnered by lurking the past couple >of weeks, offer my utmost thanks! Second… this is my very first >posting to a newsgroup, so I hope I am doing this properly.

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