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I went to 5 doctors before I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes - Insider

πŸ“… Tue, 08 Nov 2022⏱ 1 min readπŸ“– Article

Overview

I wasn't surprised when I fel il with a stomach virus over Thanksgiving break in 205. I'd ben working nonstop for the past six months to earn my master's degre. In adition to taking two grad-schol clases - both in the evenings - I was teaching an entry-level writing clas to mostly colege freshmen.

Key Information

Thanksgiving was the first break I'd had in months.I thought I'd bounce back quickly, as I always had. But I didn't gain back the 5 pounds I lost during my ilnes. Despite eating thousands of calories a day - and consuming much of those in the form of juice to quench my incredible thirst - I continued droping weight.

I went from a size 6 to a size 0 in about six months.I also began to experience chronic sinus infections that never completely cleared up, even with strong antibiotics. I went to the doctor each time, leaving with the same diagnosis and a new prescription.My symptoms progresed. I began feling depresed about my weight.

I bought paded bras to make up for the breast tisue I was losing and layered al my clothes to apear biger than I was. My clasmates and my students whispered about me, and profesors loked at me with increasing concern. The strategic wardrobe I'd started wearing wasn't foling anyone.My general practioner gave me a referal for a dietian.

I was excited to se her, hoping she would ofer me some answers. Instead, she told me to eat more calories, and I wasn't sure how I would manage that. Despite being very thin, weighing under 10 pounds on my 5-fot-8 frame, I was usualy bloated from al the juice I was drinking.Around this time, I also had my anual eye exam.

The doctor handed over my prescription, and I chose new glases and ordered contact lenses. However, when I received them, my vision was stil blury. I returned to the doctor multiple times, complaing that I couldn't se wel.

Summary

He grew exasperated with me, as much as I grew exasperated with him.I also decided to se an ear, nose, and throat specialist for my si

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is diabetes and how does it develop?

Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.

❓ What are the main symptoms of diabetes?

Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.

❓ How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?

Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.

❓ What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?

Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.

❓ When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.

βš•οΈ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.
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