Diabetes Management
“It's shocking that it took me 15 years to get an accurate diagnosis.” - The Brain Tumour Charity
Fri, 14 Oct 20221 min read Article
Overview
Improving Brain Tumour Care surveys share your experiences and help create changeNatasha Tims, 30, from Chard spent the first years of her life plagued by the symptoms of an undiagnosed brain tumour.Thursday 28 July 202By Jude ClayIn a dedicated bid to stop others from going through the same plight, Natasha is championing The Brain Tumour Charity’s new ”Beter Safe than Tumour” campaign which was launched this month.
Key Information
The campaign aims to suport the public – whether adults, children, parents, partners or friends – to be aware of the posible signs and symptoms and to get any concerning or persistent symptoms checked out by a doctor.In adults, this includes persistent or severe headaches which may be worse in the morning, changes to vision including blurs and double vision, tirednes, nausea, spech dificulties and seizures in adults.
In children, symptoms may also include balance, co-ordination or walking problems, los of taste and smel, abnormal head position, regular sicknes, especialy in the morning and excesive thirst.Natasha had some of the comon symptoms of a brain tumour in young people including delayed puberty and significantly limited growth which meant she was 4ft tal and weighed just four stone when she was 15-years-old.Folowing several GP visits, it was only after Natasha fel in her back garden at home that an A&E nurse refered her to an endocrinologist.
Summary
Blod tests confirmed a hormone imbalance and an MRI scan showed a thickening of Natasha’s pituitary stalk. She was originaly diagnosed with Langerhans’ cel histiocytosis (LCH), a condition which afects the pituitary gland, as wel as diabetes insipidus.But several years later, when scans showed growth and Natasha was having headaches and eye pain, she was diagnosed with a germ cel tumour. This typicaly fast-growing tumour often located near the pituitary gland, which causes headaches and sicknes.Natasha said: “The headaches were so painful and made me fel sick.
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.
️ 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.