This morning while scratching horrible mosquito bites, I thought, "What if I injected insulin into a mosquito bite?! Maybe it would be the new calamine lotion!"
It's not. It just bleeds.
Thank you, have a nice day.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Remember me?
November 2011 was my last post. My goodness, time flies. But the blog is still here, isn't it? So I'm going to write a post! How bout that!
This post I felt was necessary because for the first time in my 12 years with Type I Diabetes, I had a pretty serious medical emergency. Scared the BUHJESUS out of me (and my friends). I was on a camping trip, eating different foods than usual, bike riding, having a few drinks... and I took too much insulin before going to bed. My body always wakes me up when my blood sugar dips, and this time was no different except for that I didn't have anything right nearby to treat myself. My stuff was in the car outside the tent, and it wasn't my car. I said to my friend, "I need your keys!" and then I remember nothing until I woke up in the ambulance.
I had a grand mal seizure "also known as a generalized tonic-clonic seizure - features a loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions." My friends sprung into action, started delegating, somebody called 911 and an ambulance came (this is what I was told). I don't know how long it took for the ambulance to get there, but I woke up as I was being put into it and had NO IDEA what was going on. I also lost some short term memory which was extremely frightening.
They treated me, and I was in the hospital for monitoring from about 1:30 AM until 7 AM when they discharged me. I hope nothing like this EVER happens again, it was absolutely horrible and I'm so sorry my friends had to go through that, but I am endlessly thankful for their quick actions. And this is proof of the reason why you should always tell people you're with that you have diabetes. All of my friends knew already, but that isn't necessarily the case all the time.
I am okay physically except for huge bite marks in my lip, just still emotionally a little overwhelmed and trying to process it all.
So my advice to you (and to myself) is to never ever assume your blood sugar is a certain number before taking insulin. You could be way off! Danger danger!
This post I felt was necessary because for the first time in my 12 years with Type I Diabetes, I had a pretty serious medical emergency. Scared the BUHJESUS out of me (and my friends). I was on a camping trip, eating different foods than usual, bike riding, having a few drinks... and I took too much insulin before going to bed. My body always wakes me up when my blood sugar dips, and this time was no different except for that I didn't have anything right nearby to treat myself. My stuff was in the car outside the tent, and it wasn't my car. I said to my friend, "I need your keys!" and then I remember nothing until I woke up in the ambulance.
I had a grand mal seizure "also known as a generalized tonic-clonic seizure - features a loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions." My friends sprung into action, started delegating, somebody called 911 and an ambulance came (this is what I was told). I don't know how long it took for the ambulance to get there, but I woke up as I was being put into it and had NO IDEA what was going on. I also lost some short term memory which was extremely frightening.
They treated me, and I was in the hospital for monitoring from about 1:30 AM until 7 AM when they discharged me. I hope nothing like this EVER happens again, it was absolutely horrible and I'm so sorry my friends had to go through that, but I am endlessly thankful for their quick actions. And this is proof of the reason why you should always tell people you're with that you have diabetes. All of my friends knew already, but that isn't necessarily the case all the time.
I am okay physically except for huge bite marks in my lip, just still emotionally a little overwhelmed and trying to process it all.
So my advice to you (and to myself) is to never ever assume your blood sugar is a certain number before taking insulin. You could be way off! Danger danger!
Saturday, November 26, 2011
A run!
I just got back from a GORGEOUS run! It's about 60 degrees and sunny... on November 26th! I was out in a tanktop! So beautiful. My knees hurt a little, as per yooj when I run, but I feel invigorated and glad to have gotten outside! I'm still getting over my cold, so the run was a bit sluggish, but I made it and my workout's done for the day!
Before I left for my run I wasn't going to check my blood sugar because I was pretty sure it was on the high side and I'd be all set for the exercise to bring it down. But occasionally I'll feel like my blood sugar is high and it'll be LOW... or in the normal range. And sometimes the opposite; I'll feel like I'm low and check my blood sugar and it's crazy high. Even after 9 years, my sensors can be way off! Anyway, when going out for a run it's crucial to know where your blood sugar is because low blood sugar treatment is not nearby (unless of course you bring a saddlebag of sugar). To be cautious, I checked mine before I left and it was at 199. Perfecto! That's where I was guessing it was, but I kind of felt like it might be low, so I wanted to be sure.
There's a delicate balance for workouts/runs because too high of a blood sugar, the workout feels difficult and slow; too low and potential pass-outtage hangs in the balance (I'd much rather endure the former). So starting my run at the 199 was a little bit too high for my preference, but that meant I could enjoy the run without worrying that I would dip too low.
I hope you've taken advantage of this gorgeous and bizarre spring day in November!
Before I left for my run I wasn't going to check my blood sugar because I was pretty sure it was on the high side and I'd be all set for the exercise to bring it down. But occasionally I'll feel like my blood sugar is high and it'll be LOW... or in the normal range. And sometimes the opposite; I'll feel like I'm low and check my blood sugar and it's crazy high. Even after 9 years, my sensors can be way off! Anyway, when going out for a run it's crucial to know where your blood sugar is because low blood sugar treatment is not nearby (unless of course you bring a saddlebag of sugar). To be cautious, I checked mine before I left and it was at 199. Perfecto! That's where I was guessing it was, but I kind of felt like it might be low, so I wanted to be sure.
There's a delicate balance for workouts/runs because too high of a blood sugar, the workout feels difficult and slow; too low and potential pass-outtage hangs in the balance (I'd much rather endure the former). So starting my run at the 199 was a little bit too high for my preference, but that meant I could enjoy the run without worrying that I would dip too low.
I hope you've taken advantage of this gorgeous and bizarre spring day in November!
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Cardio vs. Weights
My workout last night reminded me of two things. 1. I haven't lifted weights in a while (too long); 2. How lifting weights affects blood sugar vs. how doing cardio affects it.
Depending on the length of time I do cardio, it definitely brings down my blood sugar; but does so fairly quickly (as I'm doing the cardio). Lifting weights on the other hand (or doing muscle-specific exercises) has quite the lingering effect! There are many exercise gurus out there and they have their videos saying you'll be burning calories hours after your workout is over! Buy now! But it's true. Certain workouts can "continue working" even after you're done. The class I took at the gym last night is called Cardio Muscle Mix and is one of my favorites! My muscles were a little bit surprised by what I was asking them to do, but they had a lovely time (and were very jelly-like at the end).
Because of the fact that my muscles were still tired much after my workout, meant that technically my body was still working a bit. So my blood sugar continued to drop (not dangerously, just relatively).
The class felt great and I'm back on the weight-train and want to stay on it!
Depending on the length of time I do cardio, it definitely brings down my blood sugar; but does so fairly quickly (as I'm doing the cardio). Lifting weights on the other hand (or doing muscle-specific exercises) has quite the lingering effect! There are many exercise gurus out there and they have their videos saying you'll be burning calories hours after your workout is over! Buy now! But it's true. Certain workouts can "continue working" even after you're done. The class I took at the gym last night is called Cardio Muscle Mix and is one of my favorites! My muscles were a little bit surprised by what I was asking them to do, but they had a lovely time (and were very jelly-like at the end).
Because of the fact that my muscles were still tired much after my workout, meant that technically my body was still working a bit. So my blood sugar continued to drop (not dangerously, just relatively).
The class felt great and I'm back on the weight-train and want to stay on it!
Friday, September 16, 2011
Fiber!
Fiber is good for you! The end. Thank you for listening, have a wonderful day.
Well no, there is more. The epilogue to that story is as follows: fiber makes everyone's lives better! It's not any more special to somebody with diabetes than somebody without, except when it comes to carb counting! Don't worry, I'm not going to throw another math lesson at you. Yes I am, but it's easy. When counting carbs, you subtract the fiber. Get it? Good! I was reminded of this when I read the bold sign on the front of the packet of flax whole wheat wraps I bought. They're great and very low in carbs. They ALSO have several grams of fiber, thanks to ye olde flax! Anywho, the sign reminded me about the fact that I don't remember why one is supposed to subtract the fiber. The sign says, "Remember to subtract the fiber, those are the only carbs your body absorbs!" or something like that. I knowwww, Fiber Wraps, but WHY! So there are about 11 grams of carbs in these wraps (insanely low if you've ever read a wrap label), but about 5 grams of fiber. So the net total of carbs is... divide by 47, carry the B... multiply by weight... 6! 6 grams (11-5, that's all)!
Mid-post I decided to investigate the why. It's because fiber isn't digested! That makes sense. We're learning here, people. Get excited. Check it out: http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/what-can-i-eat/carbohydrates.html
Bullet point: Eat fiber because it makes your body happy, and subtract it from the number of carbs in whatever you're eating (some studies say otherwise... but I win)!
Happy FRIDAY!!
Well no, there is more. The epilogue to that story is as follows: fiber makes everyone's lives better! It's not any more special to somebody with diabetes than somebody without, except when it comes to carb counting! Don't worry, I'm not going to throw another math lesson at you. Yes I am, but it's easy. When counting carbs, you subtract the fiber. Get it? Good! I was reminded of this when I read the bold sign on the front of the packet of flax whole wheat wraps I bought. They're great and very low in carbs. They ALSO have several grams of fiber, thanks to ye olde flax! Anywho, the sign reminded me about the fact that I don't remember why one is supposed to subtract the fiber. The sign says, "Remember to subtract the fiber, those are the only carbs your body absorbs!" or something like that. I knowwww, Fiber Wraps, but WHY! So there are about 11 grams of carbs in these wraps (insanely low if you've ever read a wrap label), but about 5 grams of fiber. So the net total of carbs is... divide by 47, carry the B... multiply by weight... 6! 6 grams (11-5, that's all)!
Mid-post I decided to investigate the why. It's because fiber isn't digested! That makes sense. We're learning here, people. Get excited. Check it out: http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/what-can-i-eat/carbohydrates.html
Bullet point: Eat fiber because it makes your body happy, and subtract it from the number of carbs in whatever you're eating (some studies say otherwise... but I win)!
Happy FRIDAY!!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Friday, August 12, 2011
Blogging is harddddd
It's tough to post on a regular basis! Sometimes I just don't know what to write about. Perhaps I could pick one day and walk you through what goes on (related to blood sugar and insulin, of course). I'll do that soon.
For today though I will touch on the topic of weight loss! Intentional weight loss that is. My freshman year of college I thought, "Good thing I have this nutritional plan, otherwise I'd gain the Freshman 15 just like everyone else!" Well guess what happened, I totally gained my Freshman... 10 maybe. Things like peanut butter mixed with vanilla soft serve ice cream might've done the trick (man that was so good). Peanut butter and cheese are foods considered "free" in the diabetes world because they aren't carbohydrates. Vegetables are more of a free food than PB and cheese are, but still. I love me some peanut butter. And peanut butter loves it some... me. Anyway, after freshman year was over I was at a weight I wasn't comfortable with, so decided to shed a few ell-beez. I honestly can't remember exactly what I did, but going into my Sophomore year I was probably down about 15 pounds! I don't think I even weighed myself, I can't remember. I'm sure I just controlled my portions more strictly. For the rest of college my weight probably fluctuated within 5-10 pounds but I never went to one extreme or the other thank goodness!
October 2010 I had my yearly physical at the doctor and they weighed me (which I never do for myself) and it was at a number I wasn't a huge fan of. So I decided to read some labels, and start thinking about calories more carefully. Even though I've been exercising since high school I never gave two hoots about calories and didn't even look at what was in anything. Once I started looking and calculating calories in combined with calories burned, I realized what I'd have to do if I wanted to lose some weight. Since then, I've just been noticing what I've been consuming. I still treat myself to certain things if I feel like it, but just being more aware is helpful. The flip side of all this is that calorie counting can make anybody go insane if they become too obsessed. And for me particularly since treating low blood sugar = more calories. It's tough sometimes, but obviously treating low blood sugars is priority over consuming a certain number of calories in a day. And then the actual working out comes into play... the longer I work out, the more sugar/carbs I need to 'cover' myself so my blood sugar doesn't dip too low. So I could just start my workout with really high blood sugar so that I don't need to eat anything, but... who wants to work out while hungry?! NOBODY! It's horrible. Even worse than that though is that high blood sugar is not good. Yet another balancing act I've become quite good at! All of these things take practice. When I got diagnosed I thought I'd be the same weight for the rest of my life since I was on a meal/carb-counting plan. But uhdoy, who stays on the same meal plan for the rest of her life? Not this guy. I gained weight, woops. I figured out how to lose it. Hooray! As long as I'm feeling well and happy where I am... that's all I need.
Bullet Point: I'm not really sure. Happy FRIDAY!!
For today though I will touch on the topic of weight loss! Intentional weight loss that is. My freshman year of college I thought, "Good thing I have this nutritional plan, otherwise I'd gain the Freshman 15 just like everyone else!" Well guess what happened, I totally gained my Freshman... 10 maybe. Things like peanut butter mixed with vanilla soft serve ice cream might've done the trick (man that was so good). Peanut butter and cheese are foods considered "free" in the diabetes world because they aren't carbohydrates. Vegetables are more of a free food than PB and cheese are, but still. I love me some peanut butter. And peanut butter loves it some... me. Anyway, after freshman year was over I was at a weight I wasn't comfortable with, so decided to shed a few ell-beez. I honestly can't remember exactly what I did, but going into my Sophomore year I was probably down about 15 pounds! I don't think I even weighed myself, I can't remember. I'm sure I just controlled my portions more strictly. For the rest of college my weight probably fluctuated within 5-10 pounds but I never went to one extreme or the other thank goodness!
October 2010 I had my yearly physical at the doctor and they weighed me (which I never do for myself) and it was at a number I wasn't a huge fan of. So I decided to read some labels, and start thinking about calories more carefully. Even though I've been exercising since high school I never gave two hoots about calories and didn't even look at what was in anything. Once I started looking and calculating calories in combined with calories burned, I realized what I'd have to do if I wanted to lose some weight. Since then, I've just been noticing what I've been consuming. I still treat myself to certain things if I feel like it, but just being more aware is helpful. The flip side of all this is that calorie counting can make anybody go insane if they become too obsessed. And for me particularly since treating low blood sugar = more calories. It's tough sometimes, but obviously treating low blood sugars is priority over consuming a certain number of calories in a day. And then the actual working out comes into play... the longer I work out, the more sugar/carbs I need to 'cover' myself so my blood sugar doesn't dip too low. So I could just start my workout with really high blood sugar so that I don't need to eat anything, but... who wants to work out while hungry?! NOBODY! It's horrible. Even worse than that though is that high blood sugar is not good. Yet another balancing act I've become quite good at! All of these things take practice. When I got diagnosed I thought I'd be the same weight for the rest of my life since I was on a meal/carb-counting plan. But uhdoy, who stays on the same meal plan for the rest of her life? Not this guy. I gained weight, woops. I figured out how to lose it. Hooray! As long as I'm feeling well and happy where I am... that's all I need.
Bullet Point: I'm not really sure. Happy FRIDAY!!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Addendum to the math post
I wanted to clarify that my intention was not to scramble your brain with mathematics, but only to show off my math skills. No, wait... that wasn't the goal either. I'm not really sure what the goal was, but it certainly wasn't to confuse anyone. In reality, all the calculations are easy (once you know how/why/when/zen), but writing them all at once even made my brain hurt. It's more difficult to explain than to DO.
I also wanted to note that of course not everything I eat has a label. So I do a lot of estimating, particularly when I go out to restaurants. Roasted chicken on a bed of risotto does not have the ADA exchange rate listed on the underside of the plate (or DOES it?!). After a short time, I got very good at the guessing and estimating. Naturally, sometimes the guessing is a bit off, but that's to be expected. A salad with apple slices for example- I think of the carbs in an apple (average 25grams) and check out about how many slices on the salad- probably about a whole apple, so that's 25grams right there. Maybe there are some crispy tortilla strips on that salad too! A whole small tortilla would be about 25grams of carbs also, and I'd bet that about 3/4ths of the tortilla was on the salad, so I'd add 20grams. Then I'd factor in a couple grams here and there for dressing, cheese (goat cheese for this salad thankyouverymuch), etc... so for this fictitious (but delicious, no?) salad, I would take about 5 or 6 units of insulin (because there were about 50-60 grams of carbs in it).
Anyway... don't be confused, count your foods (or I will)!
I also wanted to note that of course not everything I eat has a label. So I do a lot of estimating, particularly when I go out to restaurants. Roasted chicken on a bed of risotto does not have the ADA exchange rate listed on the underside of the plate (or DOES it?!). After a short time, I got very good at the guessing and estimating. Naturally, sometimes the guessing is a bit off, but that's to be expected. A salad with apple slices for example- I think of the carbs in an apple (average 25grams) and check out about how many slices on the salad- probably about a whole apple, so that's 25grams right there. Maybe there are some crispy tortilla strips on that salad too! A whole small tortilla would be about 25grams of carbs also, and I'd bet that about 3/4ths of the tortilla was on the salad, so I'd add 20grams. Then I'd factor in a couple grams here and there for dressing, cheese (goat cheese for this salad thankyouverymuch), etc... so for this fictitious (but delicious, no?) salad, I would take about 5 or 6 units of insulin (because there were about 50-60 grams of carbs in it).
Anyway... don't be confused, count your foods (or I will)!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Math Lesson
Perhaps it's time for some technical information, mmm? Perhaps it's not, but here it comes. So as I've mentioned there are a few different types of insulin, and the 'fast acting' Humalog is what you're going to learn about right now! So exciting.
A healthy blood sugar target is around 80-150mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter, I've gone cross-eyed). If your (my) blood sugar is over that, it needs to be 'corrected.' That's where exercise can come in, but typically insulin takes that job. Each person's body is different and processes the insulin differently, so the 'correction factor' is different. There will be a quiz at the end of this post about how many times I used the word 'different' so pay attention. What you do first is determine the correction factor with your doctor, then decide on a target blood sugar, and that's where the fun math comes in! My correction factor is 50 (I'm going to be honest, I don't remember what that even means... it's just 50. That will have to suffice for now). My target blood sugar is 100mg/dL. Before you run away, let me give you an example: Let's say I check my blood sugar and it's at 250mg/dL, sacre bleu! No fear. Equation is as follows: actual blood sugar (250) minus blood sugar I correct to (100) then divide by 50 (correction factor) = 3. So what? 3. Congratulations. Neat number. No, no, it's more than that. That 3 means I have to take 3 extra units of Humalog in order to get my blood sugar to the wonderful 100mg/dL I want it to be! Not too bad? Still with me?
Next science tidbit is counting carbohydrates! That is how I determine how many units of Humalog I take with each meal. For anyone who's done Weight Watchers, you'd be surprised to know it is QUITE similar to diabetes and its carb-counting regimen. The American Diabetes Association once upon a time determined that "one" carbohydrate = 15 grams of carbs. Ask me how many carbs per serving on just about anything, I'll tell you without lookin! Anyway, when I have a meal, I look at the carbohydrates in the nutrition information (luckily the world is coming around and posting nutrition information in more and more places) and assess/mathematize from there. Example time! Let's go with a Nature Valley granola bar (a staple in my diet). The serving size is 2 bars (which come in one packet), and there are 29grams of carbs in that serving. I determined with my doctor that to maintain my healthy blood sugar, my body needs 1 unit of insulin per 10 grams of carbs. Ipso facto, if I eat that granola bar, I take (rounded) 3 units of insulin. 30grams of carbohydrates = 3 units of insulin (for Olivia).
Next time you read a label, there's a good chance you'll see at the bottom the "ADA Exchange". On the granola bar box it says the ADA Exchange is "2" because remember that 15grams of carbohydrates = "one" carbohydrate, that's why the granola bar is 2. Not every brand of food is associate with the ADA, but the ones that are will have this information listed on their label, rather convenient! This all makes sense to me because I learned it and have been living it. Don't fret if your head is spinning. And if it's not spinning, hats off to you and your non-spinning head beneath them!
Bullet points:
-15grams of carbs = "one" exchange in the ADA world
-Blood sugar correction factor
-Math is fun (no it's not)
Happy Tuesday!
A healthy blood sugar target is around 80-150mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter, I've gone cross-eyed). If your (my) blood sugar is over that, it needs to be 'corrected.' That's where exercise can come in, but typically insulin takes that job. Each person's body is different and processes the insulin differently, so the 'correction factor' is different. There will be a quiz at the end of this post about how many times I used the word 'different' so pay attention. What you do first is determine the correction factor with your doctor, then decide on a target blood sugar, and that's where the fun math comes in! My correction factor is 50 (I'm going to be honest, I don't remember what that even means... it's just 50. That will have to suffice for now). My target blood sugar is 100mg/dL. Before you run away, let me give you an example: Let's say I check my blood sugar and it's at 250mg/dL, sacre bleu! No fear. Equation is as follows: actual blood sugar (250) minus blood sugar I correct to (100) then divide by 50 (correction factor) = 3. So what? 3. Congratulations. Neat number. No, no, it's more than that. That 3 means I have to take 3 extra units of Humalog in order to get my blood sugar to the wonderful 100mg/dL I want it to be! Not too bad? Still with me?
Next science tidbit is counting carbohydrates! That is how I determine how many units of Humalog I take with each meal. For anyone who's done Weight Watchers, you'd be surprised to know it is QUITE similar to diabetes and its carb-counting regimen. The American Diabetes Association once upon a time determined that "one" carbohydrate = 15 grams of carbs. Ask me how many carbs per serving on just about anything, I'll tell you without lookin! Anyway, when I have a meal, I look at the carbohydrates in the nutrition information (luckily the world is coming around and posting nutrition information in more and more places) and assess/mathematize from there. Example time! Let's go with a Nature Valley granola bar (a staple in my diet). The serving size is 2 bars (which come in one packet), and there are 29grams of carbs in that serving. I determined with my doctor that to maintain my healthy blood sugar, my body needs 1 unit of insulin per 10 grams of carbs. Ipso facto, if I eat that granola bar, I take (rounded) 3 units of insulin. 30grams of carbohydrates = 3 units of insulin (for Olivia).
Next time you read a label, there's a good chance you'll see at the bottom the "ADA Exchange". On the granola bar box it says the ADA Exchange is "2" because remember that 15grams of carbohydrates = "one" carbohydrate, that's why the granola bar is 2. Not every brand of food is associate with the ADA, but the ones that are will have this information listed on their label, rather convenient! This all makes sense to me because I learned it and have been living it. Don't fret if your head is spinning. And if it's not spinning, hats off to you and your non-spinning head beneath them!
Bullet points:
-15grams of carbs = "one" exchange in the ADA world
-Blood sugar correction factor
-Math is fun (no it's not)
Happy Tuesday!
Friday, July 22, 2011
Monday, July 18, 2011
College
I get a little overwhelmed thinking back on how much was going on before I went to college. I had been living with diabetuss for about 2 months before I left for school. TWO MONTHS!! That is so absurd I'm not sure how I did it. And I wasn't going to school down the street, I was attending James Madison University... a 600 mile hop-skip-and-a-jump away from home. I honestly don't remember thinking much about whether or not I would still go to JMU, just thinking more along the lines of being really scared. There were certainly 'if' thoughts rolling around though. The final decision was indeed to buck up and go out to Virginia to begin my college career!
A typical college freshman has a lot to think about. A college freshman 600 miles from home and relearning how to live with diabetes has juuust a couple extra things to think about. I had to make sure there was a pharmacy nearby where I could refill and pick up my prescriptions (whew, CVS down the road... that I rode my bike to from my dorm), had to schedule classes that followed my medicine's schedule (a little bit more difficult). The insulin I was taking when I first started the diabetes regimen was the 'you-have-to-eat-lunch-4-hours-after-you-take-it' insulin, so I had to work around that. When I think back to my first semester and my class/food schedule, I almost have to laugh... then give myself a high five. James Madison's campus is huge. I had a class that let out at probably 11:50 or so, and it was at the tippy top of campus. Then I had to make it to just about the bottom of campus for a 12:00 class. And somehow I had to eat. Let me tell you, the first 10 minutes my 12:00 math class involved brow-wiping and heavy breathing. Oh, and sandwich eating. What I would have to do is use one of my meal plan "punches" (I can't even think of a synonym... ticket maybe?) the night before and get a to-go sandwich, and bring that with me for those sweaty/breathey math class days. After a couple weeks of being late to class, I went to Walmart and bought a bike. That made my downhill trek much faster (going from the bottom of campus back up turned my freshman quadriceps to STEEL!).
So the insulin timing with food and class and all that junk is one thing. Then there's that whole "you're in college, let's get drunk!" business. First of all, I never drank in high-school so it wasn't something I did to begin with. My lettuce-recommending-parents weren't strict about drinking and things like that (but weren't willy-nilly either, in their defense), so I wasn't aching to rebel and drink my face off the first chance I got. Also, there was that whole diabetes thing, remember? I forgot too. Binge drinking is dangerous for anyone. Binge drinking for somebody with diabetes is even more dangerous because (and I remember a nurse telling me this and I haven't forgotten it since) if my blood sugar dipped low enough that I passed out, an untrained/unaware eye would think, "Oh she's just passed out drunk" when in fact it was diabetic shock. RUH ROH. That is bad news bears. So, freshman year I think I might've had three drinks... total. In 180 days. I was petrified to drink anything. I thank my stars and garters that my angel of a roommate was in the same non-drinking boat as I was. We had the best year together just staying low key. As a matter of fact, we continued to live together for all 4 years of college! Love you, Hutch. :) I went out to a few parties and if I said I didn't drink, I would occasionally get asked why, and as soon as I said that I was diabetic, the response was usually, "Oh, ok cool!" No problems there.
After getting used to my body, how it worked with diabetes, and what I could and couldn't (and did and didn't want to) handle, I learned how to drink safely. Alcohol lowers your blood sugar, so having a snack before and/or during drinks is crucial. And never getting to the oh-so-dangerous black-out point. Even without diabetes, I would never choose to do that. I don't like the feeling of not being in control of my own body. My good ole motto of "everything in moderation" rears its head again! For college students who are newly diagnosed, or high school students who haven't gotten to college yet... my advice is just to be careful, be safe, and make sure you have a friend around who knows your dealio. I have to admit that sometimes it just felt annoying and a little nerdy to have to do those things... but if push had come to shove, it would've saved my life, and could save yours.
BULLET POINT: Drinking is allowed, but be smart and safe (that goes for everyone, really)!
A typical college freshman has a lot to think about. A college freshman 600 miles from home and relearning how to live with diabetes has juuust a couple extra things to think about. I had to make sure there was a pharmacy nearby where I could refill and pick up my prescriptions (whew, CVS down the road... that I rode my bike to from my dorm), had to schedule classes that followed my medicine's schedule (a little bit more difficult). The insulin I was taking when I first started the diabetes regimen was the 'you-have-to-eat-lunch-4-hours-after-you-take-it' insulin, so I had to work around that. When I think back to my first semester and my class/food schedule, I almost have to laugh... then give myself a high five. James Madison's campus is huge. I had a class that let out at probably 11:50 or so, and it was at the tippy top of campus. Then I had to make it to just about the bottom of campus for a 12:00 class. And somehow I had to eat. Let me tell you, the first 10 minutes my 12:00 math class involved brow-wiping and heavy breathing. Oh, and sandwich eating. What I would have to do is use one of my meal plan "punches" (I can't even think of a synonym... ticket maybe?) the night before and get a to-go sandwich, and bring that with me for those sweaty/breathey math class days. After a couple weeks of being late to class, I went to Walmart and bought a bike. That made my downhill trek much faster (going from the bottom of campus back up turned my freshman quadriceps to STEEL!).
So the insulin timing with food and class and all that junk is one thing. Then there's that whole "you're in college, let's get drunk!" business. First of all, I never drank in high-school so it wasn't something I did to begin with. My lettuce-recommending-parents weren't strict about drinking and things like that (but weren't willy-nilly either, in their defense), so I wasn't aching to rebel and drink my face off the first chance I got. Also, there was that whole diabetes thing, remember? I forgot too. Binge drinking is dangerous for anyone. Binge drinking for somebody with diabetes is even more dangerous because (and I remember a nurse telling me this and I haven't forgotten it since) if my blood sugar dipped low enough that I passed out, an untrained/unaware eye would think, "Oh she's just passed out drunk" when in fact it was diabetic shock. RUH ROH. That is bad news bears. So, freshman year I think I might've had three drinks... total. In 180 days. I was petrified to drink anything. I thank my stars and garters that my angel of a roommate was in the same non-drinking boat as I was. We had the best year together just staying low key. As a matter of fact, we continued to live together for all 4 years of college! Love you, Hutch. :) I went out to a few parties and if I said I didn't drink, I would occasionally get asked why, and as soon as I said that I was diabetic, the response was usually, "Oh, ok cool!" No problems there.
After getting used to my body, how it worked with diabetes, and what I could and couldn't (and did and didn't want to) handle, I learned how to drink safely. Alcohol lowers your blood sugar, so having a snack before and/or during drinks is crucial. And never getting to the oh-so-dangerous black-out point. Even without diabetes, I would never choose to do that. I don't like the feeling of not being in control of my own body. My good ole motto of "everything in moderation" rears its head again! For college students who are newly diagnosed, or high school students who haven't gotten to college yet... my advice is just to be careful, be safe, and make sure you have a friend around who knows your dealio. I have to admit that sometimes it just felt annoying and a little nerdy to have to do those things... but if push had come to shove, it would've saved my life, and could save yours.
BULLET POINT: Drinking is allowed, but be smart and safe (that goes for everyone, really)!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Sometimes it rains
Okay, I went from 0-100 on the posts, then forgot how to use a computer. I'm back, and know where the space bar is.
I've been trying to think of posts that will be interesting to any and everyone, and that's impossible. I'll just have to write what my brain tells me and if you like it, then hot diggity dawg! And if not... then cold dawgs. In all of my preaching about how living with diabetes is now routine for me and I hardly think much of it anymore, I have to say that isn't always the case. I'm not Superwoman... yet. There are days when I just don't feel like checking.my.dang.blood.sugar! Days I don't want to think about how people will react if I tell them, times I don't want to have to plan ahead and figure out how many syringes to bring with me on a trip (and bring a note from my doctor so I don't get kicked off a plane), and on and on. But I do it all anyway, because it's my life and taking care of myself is priority number ONE.
In addition to that, I was blessed (I think I sometimes might take this for granted) with a healthy upbringing. My family is a healthy one in terms of food and exercise. I was always an active kid, and I vividly remember hearing, "Have at least a little something green" at nearly every dinner. Nothing was ever forced, just recommended. And consistent recommendations stuck with me (thanks Mum and Dad). If I have a dinner without a salad, piece of broccoli, or a green crayon, it feels incomplete. That pattern of healthy eating was with me even before diabetes became a part of my life; and I'm certain that has aided in my success at maintaining my health. That being said, just because somebody didn't grow up the way I did, most definitely does not mean those habits can't be learned. If I learned about 7/10 (estimated) of 'what diabetes is' in 3 days at a hospital... anybody can learn about how eating vegetables is helpful, and that they don't necessarily taste gross.
Creating a routine is the key to managing diabetes well. Balancing blood sugar, insulin dosages, eating well, and exercising: get a pattern down with those 4 components, and the aggravating ups and downs won't happen as often. Another piece of sound advice is to allow yourself to get mad and be pissed of at Sir Diabetuss for a minute. He's a jerk sometimes and can handle some scrutiny. It's okay to feel down about having to deal with this disease. At the same time, remember it's not the worst thing in the world. Another scale to balance. It takes time, and is of course different for each individual. "Everything in moderation" is a motto (motto? adage? thing?) I live by, and it hasn't steered me wrong. Give it a go!
I've been trying to think of posts that will be interesting to any and everyone, and that's impossible. I'll just have to write what my brain tells me and if you like it, then hot diggity dawg! And if not... then cold dawgs. In all of my preaching about how living with diabetes is now routine for me and I hardly think much of it anymore, I have to say that isn't always the case. I'm not Superwoman... yet. There are days when I just don't feel like checking.my.dang.blood.sugar! Days I don't want to think about how people will react if I tell them, times I don't want to have to plan ahead and figure out how many syringes to bring with me on a trip (and bring a note from my doctor so I don't get kicked off a plane), and on and on. But I do it all anyway, because it's my life and taking care of myself is priority number ONE.
In addition to that, I was blessed (I think I sometimes might take this for granted) with a healthy upbringing. My family is a healthy one in terms of food and exercise. I was always an active kid, and I vividly remember hearing, "Have at least a little something green" at nearly every dinner. Nothing was ever forced, just recommended. And consistent recommendations stuck with me (thanks Mum and Dad). If I have a dinner without a salad, piece of broccoli, or a green crayon, it feels incomplete. That pattern of healthy eating was with me even before diabetes became a part of my life; and I'm certain that has aided in my success at maintaining my health. That being said, just because somebody didn't grow up the way I did, most definitely does not mean those habits can't be learned. If I learned about 7/10 (estimated) of 'what diabetes is' in 3 days at a hospital... anybody can learn about how eating vegetables is helpful, and that they don't necessarily taste gross.
Creating a routine is the key to managing diabetes well. Balancing blood sugar, insulin dosages, eating well, and exercising: get a pattern down with those 4 components, and the aggravating ups and downs won't happen as often. Another piece of sound advice is to allow yourself to get mad and be pissed of at Sir Diabetuss for a minute. He's a jerk sometimes and can handle some scrutiny. It's okay to feel down about having to deal with this disease. At the same time, remember it's not the worst thing in the world. Another scale to balance. It takes time, and is of course different for each individual. "Everything in moderation" is a motto (motto? adage? thing?) I live by, and it hasn't steered me wrong. Give it a go!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Exercise is a drug
I don't say that because I'm 'addicted' to exercise, I say that because exercise acts like insulin!! Maintaining a daily exercise regimen has made and continues to make a world of a difference for my diabetes control. Part of the reason my blood sugar wasn't astronomical at the time of my diagnosis was because I was exercising every day at crew practice.
I am certainly an exercise-advocate for anybody, diabetes or not; but it is just that much more important for somebody with diabetes. I don't have to take as much insulin because of exercise (like I said, exercise acts like insulin), and that will help keep me healthier longer. I can avoid the complications that go along with mismanaged diabetes, which can be very serious. Issues with circulation, eye-related problems, heart problems, kidney problems... there are a lot. BUT! Preventable. How excellent.
Bullet point: Exercise will save your life!
(Perhaps that's a mild exaggeration, but not too far off. It will LENGTHEN your life, that's for dang sure)
I am certainly an exercise-advocate for anybody, diabetes or not; but it is just that much more important for somebody with diabetes. I don't have to take as much insulin because of exercise (like I said, exercise acts like insulin), and that will help keep me healthier longer. I can avoid the complications that go along with mismanaged diabetes, which can be very serious. Issues with circulation, eye-related problems, heart problems, kidney problems... there are a lot. BUT! Preventable. How excellent.
Bullet point: Exercise will save your life!
(Perhaps that's a mild exaggeration, but not too far off. It will LENGTHEN your life, that's for dang sure)
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Always. Be. Prepared.
Happy 3rd of July!!
Welcome to my low-blood-sugar blog post. I do not have low blood sugar as I type, but am going to inform you of what it's like having low blood sugar. The same cousin who told me that dealing with diabetes would become second nature, also told me to NEVER go anywhere without something to treat low blood sugar (juice, soda, candy). That was by far the best advice I've gotten.
High blood sugar just makes me feel drained, and occasionally I'll have a headache; but a dose of insulin can fix that easily (consistent high blood sugar is very detrimental, however). Low blood sugar is a whole other beast. It can be treated quickly, but there is more 'panic' involved. I start to sweat, get shaky, and if it's really bad, my vision starts to get blurry/go black (that's REALLY bad if it's gotten to that point). It takes about 10 minutes for the sugar (Starburst, Twizzlers, etc.) to get into my system, and boy oh boy is it a very long 10 minutes. Luckily I've had only a few close calls, but having sugar to treat the lows prevents the scary moments. More often than not, my low blood sugars are because I've had an out of the ordinary meal and took too much insulin.
Exercising can cause low blood sugars too. Several times I've had to cut a workout short because I can feel my blood sugar dipping low, which is very frustrating (but necessary). Even just knowing that I have some sugar around is comforting, then I know I won't be stuck somewhere with a severe low blood sugar. Severe = passing out. Yesterday morning I went for a bike ride right after I had breakfast, which wasn't part of my daily routine, so I adjusted my insulin dose accordingly. All went well, and then before lunch I checked my blood sugar and it was about 400!! WOOPS! Even a pro like me can mess up sometimes and have a high like that. So I had some lunch and took an extra few units of Humalog. I was going to play tennis about an hour later, so I made SURE to bring some sugar with me just in case I went low. I played for an hour or so, and when I got back home I checked my blood sugar and it was 85. Perfection!
Bullet points:
--Check your blood sugar as often as needed, it helps to keep it in control.
--Always have some sugar-somethin with you to treat lows!!
Happy 4th of July (ok well it's still the 3rd, but... close 'nuff)!!
Welcome to my low-blood-sugar blog post. I do not have low blood sugar as I type, but am going to inform you of what it's like having low blood sugar. The same cousin who told me that dealing with diabetes would become second nature, also told me to NEVER go anywhere without something to treat low blood sugar (juice, soda, candy). That was by far the best advice I've gotten.
High blood sugar just makes me feel drained, and occasionally I'll have a headache; but a dose of insulin can fix that easily (consistent high blood sugar is very detrimental, however). Low blood sugar is a whole other beast. It can be treated quickly, but there is more 'panic' involved. I start to sweat, get shaky, and if it's really bad, my vision starts to get blurry/go black (that's REALLY bad if it's gotten to that point). It takes about 10 minutes for the sugar (Starburst, Twizzlers, etc.) to get into my system, and boy oh boy is it a very long 10 minutes. Luckily I've had only a few close calls, but having sugar to treat the lows prevents the scary moments. More often than not, my low blood sugars are because I've had an out of the ordinary meal and took too much insulin.
Exercising can cause low blood sugars too. Several times I've had to cut a workout short because I can feel my blood sugar dipping low, which is very frustrating (but necessary). Even just knowing that I have some sugar around is comforting, then I know I won't be stuck somewhere with a severe low blood sugar. Severe = passing out. Yesterday morning I went for a bike ride right after I had breakfast, which wasn't part of my daily routine, so I adjusted my insulin dose accordingly. All went well, and then before lunch I checked my blood sugar and it was about 400!! WOOPS! Even a pro like me can mess up sometimes and have a high like that. So I had some lunch and took an extra few units of Humalog. I was going to play tennis about an hour later, so I made SURE to bring some sugar with me just in case I went low. I played for an hour or so, and when I got back home I checked my blood sugar and it was 85. Perfection!
Bullet points:
--Check your blood sugar as often as needed, it helps to keep it in control.
--Always have some sugar-somethin with you to treat lows!!
Happy 4th of July (ok well it's still the 3rd, but... close 'nuff)!!
Friday, July 1, 2011
Answers
Questions be comin in, I be gonna give da answers!
1. Why did you lose weight?
When the body isn't processing carbohydrates to convert them to fuel, they convert to sugar and the sugar just stays in the blood. Sugar in the blood = blood sugar. Since the body isn't getting fuel from food, it starts to "eat" the fat. Ergo, henceforth: weight loss. That is the least science-y answer I can give. Partially because the real science version I need to read again... because I can't quite remember.
2. What is the difference between Type I and Type II Diabetes?
EXCELLENT question, because that difference is substantial. Type I is 'insulin dependent' and a person with this disease has to inject insulin because his or her (I am a her) pancreas no longer creates its own insulin. Also, it is not reversible or curable (although a cure is right around the corner).
Type II Diabetes is not always insulin dependent, and oral medication is typically taken to treat it. Diet and exercise can reverse Type II. If that were possible for Type I, I'd have NOT had diabetes for about 9 years now. Dang. Type II is usually diagnosed later in life and it is more often than not people who have very unhealthy lifestyles and diets.
3. Can you eat cookies, cake, etc.?
Yes, yes I can. I try not to, but if I want to, I do. I just need to adjust my insulin dosage to accommodate the carbohydrates/sugar. What I do NOT do is drink juice and soda. Those things are loaded with sugar and it's not worth it.
More questions to be answered, and in more detail... and more scientifically accurate. Happy 4th of July!!
1. Why did you lose weight?
When the body isn't processing carbohydrates to convert them to fuel, they convert to sugar and the sugar just stays in the blood. Sugar in the blood = blood sugar. Since the body isn't getting fuel from food, it starts to "eat" the fat. Ergo, henceforth: weight loss. That is the least science-y answer I can give. Partially because the real science version I need to read again... because I can't quite remember.
2. What is the difference between Type I and Type II Diabetes?
EXCELLENT question, because that difference is substantial. Type I is 'insulin dependent' and a person with this disease has to inject insulin because his or her (I am a her) pancreas no longer creates its own insulin. Also, it is not reversible or curable (although a cure is right around the corner).
Type II Diabetes is not always insulin dependent, and oral medication is typically taken to treat it. Diet and exercise can reverse Type II. If that were possible for Type I, I'd have NOT had diabetes for about 9 years now. Dang. Type II is usually diagnosed later in life and it is more often than not people who have very unhealthy lifestyles and diets.
3. Can you eat cookies, cake, etc.?
Yes, yes I can. I try not to, but if I want to, I do. I just need to adjust my insulin dosage to accommodate the carbohydrates/sugar. What I do NOT do is drink juice and soda. Those things are loaded with sugar and it's not worth it.
More questions to be answered, and in more detail... and more scientifically accurate. Happy 4th of July!!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
A little extra!
Oh my goodness, what a response! Thank you to everyone for checking this out! I feel so extra especial! And exclamation points are the key to life!
I'm still trying to figure out what each post will consist of, and I didn't even quite get everything in that first one that I wanted... but short posts are easier (to read, and to write). I truly hope that my experiences and knowledge somehow make it to the people who need it the most, because I know I could've used a 'me' when I was diagnosed. A doctor telling me that it'll be fine and I'll get used to it is not really all that believable when I've already glazed over and think my normal life has come to an end.
I specifically remember meeting with my... second cousin? I don't even know exactly what our relation is, but he also has Type I Diabetes. He told me that eventually it just becomes second nature. Then his dad chimed in and added that "it's just like me having to put on my glasses every day." Excuse me, no. Injecting insulin into my body with a needle every day is not the same as PUTTING ON GLASSES! Of course now, 9 years later, that is exactly what it's like. I cannot imagine a day without checking my blood sugar and taking insulin. He spoke the truth.
A typical day for me includes checking my blood sugar 4-5 times (before breakfast, before lunch, before I exercise, and before dinner- I SHOULD check it before I go to bed; but for me, if I know my blood sugar before dinner and don't eat anything out of the ordinary, I know what it'll be before bed). I take "fast acting" insulin (Humalog) with my breakfast (I sprinkle it on my cereal. No I don't.), and that goes for lunch and dinner as well. Every day around noon, however is when I take the "long acting" insulin (Lantus) which is the base-line that works for 24 hours. Injections don't hurt, and checking my blood sugar doesn't hurt. You've had it done when you get a physical (the way they do it actually DOES hurt though).
As comfortable as I am with having this disease, I don't know how other people feel about it. So unless I know the person well, I will not do any diabetussness for all eyes to see. Some people are terrified of needles, I can't fault 'em for that! I've also encountered people who don't seem to understand a polite/socially acceptable way to react when I tell them I have diabetes. I've gotten, "What did you do to get that?!" How nice of you to be so sensitive, I went down to the corner store and found it on aisle 7.5.
I just had dinner with a friend of mine and we were talking about my post #1, and she was just asking questions about everything. That is my absolute favorite. I LOVE when people are interested and willing to listen and learn. It's so much a part of my life now, that when I try to explain certain things to untrained ears, I remember I need to really break it down (I was once in that same boat). And I love it. So please feel free to ask questions (that will also help me for ideas for posts)!! Thank you again to everyone for your support, this is very exciting for me! Anyway, just a little extra day-1 burst of information!
I'm still trying to figure out what each post will consist of, and I didn't even quite get everything in that first one that I wanted... but short posts are easier (to read, and to write). I truly hope that my experiences and knowledge somehow make it to the people who need it the most, because I know I could've used a 'me' when I was diagnosed. A doctor telling me that it'll be fine and I'll get used to it is not really all that believable when I've already glazed over and think my normal life has come to an end.
I specifically remember meeting with my... second cousin? I don't even know exactly what our relation is, but he also has Type I Diabetes. He told me that eventually it just becomes second nature. Then his dad chimed in and added that "it's just like me having to put on my glasses every day." Excuse me, no. Injecting insulin into my body with a needle every day is not the same as PUTTING ON GLASSES! Of course now, 9 years later, that is exactly what it's like. I cannot imagine a day without checking my blood sugar and taking insulin. He spoke the truth.
A typical day for me includes checking my blood sugar 4-5 times (before breakfast, before lunch, before I exercise, and before dinner- I SHOULD check it before I go to bed; but for me, if I know my blood sugar before dinner and don't eat anything out of the ordinary, I know what it'll be before bed). I take "fast acting" insulin (Humalog) with my breakfast (I sprinkle it on my cereal. No I don't.), and that goes for lunch and dinner as well. Every day around noon, however is when I take the "long acting" insulin (Lantus) which is the base-line that works for 24 hours. Injections don't hurt, and checking my blood sugar doesn't hurt. You've had it done when you get a physical (the way they do it actually DOES hurt though).
As comfortable as I am with having this disease, I don't know how other people feel about it. So unless I know the person well, I will not do any diabetussness for all eyes to see. Some people are terrified of needles, I can't fault 'em for that! I've also encountered people who don't seem to understand a polite/socially acceptable way to react when I tell them I have diabetes. I've gotten, "What did you do to get that?!" How nice of you to be so sensitive, I went down to the corner store and found it on aisle 7.5.
I just had dinner with a friend of mine and we were talking about my post #1, and she was just asking questions about everything. That is my absolute favorite. I LOVE when people are interested and willing to listen and learn. It's so much a part of my life now, that when I try to explain certain things to untrained ears, I remember I need to really break it down (I was once in that same boat). And I love it. So please feel free to ask questions (that will also help me for ideas for posts)!! Thank you again to everyone for your support, this is very exciting for me! Anyway, just a little extra day-1 burst of information!
Welcome!!
Oh hello! You may recognize me from... somewhere, but only if you know me. I am here today starting this blog for YOUR benefit and pleasure; or displeasure perhaps, but let's hope for the best!
I'm on a mission to give advice, dispel myths, and be an advocate for health while living with Type I Diabetes! It's also been called Diabetuss (not really except for the old man in the commercial), Diabetes Mellitus, and Juvenile Diabetes. I want to tell my story so that others out there who might be feeling lost, confused, sad, petrified, what-have-you can have a cheerleader in their corner (and not a doctor-cheerleader).
Where oh where should I start? Well first of all, I am 26 years old and have been living with diabetes now for 9 years, which is hard to believe. If your math is as good as mine, you'll figure out that I was a senior in high school when I got diagnosed. Having fun yet?? It was actually two weeks after my graduation that I was diagnosed. June 17, 2002. But I must rewind. While the actual word "diabetes" was a complete and total shock, I had been relatively sick for about 6 months. Being "off" for 6 months and knowing why is pretty annoying; being "off" for 6 months and having ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA why is infuriating and a little bit scary. Picture this if you will (or try): you are the most thirsty you have ever been, ever. You might say you have sand in your mouth (but might not). You chug a billion gallons of water, yet still feel just as thirsty as before the chuggage. What the heck. That was symptom number one. Symptom number two was frequency of peeing. Holy bananas, I think I peed all day long. Symptom number three was weight loss. Extreme weight loss, and unexplained to boot. I guarantee everyone at my high school thought I'd become anorexic. I looked like skeletor. For a reference, I am about 155lbs today. By my diagnosis date, I was 117lbs. I'm 5'9. Unless I was trying out for heroin-addict-runway-model party time, that is not a good plan. Once I started noticing the weight loss (when it was getting to the scary point), I started to eat as much as I could, having a Snickers bar because it was a day that ended in 'y'... and I kept losing weight. Might sound like the dream diet, but good gravy it was not worth it. That brings me to symptom number four. ZERO energy. I mean zero. Not a brain-tired, but a oh-great-I-still-have-these-anvils-attached-to-my-ankles tired. And this was all happening in the midst of my last crew season. Zero energy + one of the most physically demanding sports out there = horrible. Those were the most prominent symptoms. And like they say (do you know They? So knowledgeable, really), hindsight is 20/20. Those are all FLAMING red flags for diabetes, but when you aren't thinking along those lines, then it's just mysterious.
As a senior in high school, obviously college was around the corner. I had to get a physical exam for the college's records (and my own of course), and when I went in, my doctor recommended I get some blood work done. She had also had me start a food diary, because I have no doubt she was worried I wasn't eating. Boy was she wrong. Fast forward to 2 weeks later and the phone rings. It's my doctor. It was June 17, and I was just getting ready to have some breakfast and my mom gets off the phone and calmly tells me that my doctor thinks I have diabetes and we should get to the hospital immediately. Oh. Right then. Uhhwhat? She told us that my blood sugar was 636. Normal blood sugar is about 80-150. HELLO! I later learned that most people at their diagnosis have blood sugars over 1000 and have acid in their blood. I was doing quite well all things considered. I asked my mom if I could even EAT anything, and my doctor had said maybe just some toast. So I had a half a bagel with jelly on it. After some diabetuss-schoolin from me, you'll learn that a bagel and jelly is quite possibly one of the worst choices I could've made! Woops!!
Off to the hospital we went, me dragging my negative-energy feet and so utterly numb as to what the frick was going on. Mum, for the record: I love you, and you did everything right. We got to the emergency room and they quickly got me hooked up to an IV (insulin and HYDRATION). I remember after about an hour or so, I looked at my mom and said, "I'm not thirsty!!!" What was in that IV, GOLD?! Gold sates thirst, FYI. That was an amazing feeling. The rest of that day is a bit of a blur, but I know I had some sort of sandwich in that room that really wasn't very good. I got transferred upstairs in Children's Hospital to continue with the remedies. And the beginning of the biggest learning curve I'd ever encounter. It was a LOT of information in a very little time; and forget about being inundated with information, I was having to assess the insane change that was going on in my life. Diabetes? Injections? What in the cripes are you telling me? One of my first thoughts was, "Oh my god... I'll never have a coffee frappe again." Coffee frappes (ice cream and milk for those of you who are not from Massachusetts) have been one of my most favorite ice cream situations in the world. And diabetes was going to take that away from me? Well color me deflated. And burgers and fries?? So many thoughts running through my head; one of which was questioning whether my choice to go to Virginia for college was a good idea anymore. I'd be so far away from my family, and I'd have to tell a random roommate why I had needles, what diabetes is, why I have it, what it's like, et cetera, et cetera, et cetera. HELP!!
After three days at Children's Hospital in Boston, I'd already gained about 5 pounds which was unreal. And I was HUNGRY. For 6 months, my body hadn't been processing food correctly, and wasn't converting it into fuel. Once that got 'fixed' my body was like, "WHOAAA, what is this?? This feels GOOD!" It was incredible, and I was ravenous. Hence the rapid (and healthy) weight gain! Despite several great things going on, I was so scared to go home. There would be no doctors to monitor me, nurses to come check my blood sugar at 2am just in case it dipped low. How on earth was supposed to do this on my own. Luckily it wasn't entirely on my own. I had the support of every single person in my family, which I am incredibly grateful for. I'm not sure what I would've done without them and their visits in the hospital! Everyone was a little bit scared for me, but that was hidden with hugs and cheers for dealing with this new diagnosis with vim and vigor!! But still. Scary. Seriously. My mom and I got back to the apartment and it was like, "Ok, so... now what do we do?" I felt accomplished after I walked to Walgreens on my own. That's how iffy everything felt- could I walk down the street without... what? Passing out? Tripping and landing on my diabetes? I was just a confused and scared mess. Going to sleep was petrifying. I had to set an alarm to wake up so I could check my blood sugar on my own to make sure it wasn't low. That first night it was at 90 when I checked. 90!! Yes!! But I FELT low, because when your blood sugar has been over 400 for so long, 90 feels low. I'll get into details in future posts about lows and highs and what they feel like. Anyway, the support of my family is what helped me through that whirlwind. My now step-dad was living with us and would figure out the exchanges for carbohydrates so I could calculate my insulin dosage, I was getting phone calls from family checking in, etc. Everyone was amazing and I am forever thankful to each and every one of them! I love you all.
So here is my maiden voyage of a blog post and I hope to continue and reach some people who might otherwise be lost and need some help. I feel like a seasoned diabetuss veteran, and would love more than anything to be a cheerleader to new diagnosees who think their normal life might be over. IT'S NOT! I went to Dairy Queen last night and had a Blizzard. And I have diabetes, remember? It's all about moderation, and exercise is a very important part of the maintenance. I love answering questions about it and my life with it, so please feel free to ask and/or comment. Until we meet again (or I add a new blog post...)!!
I'm on a mission to give advice, dispel myths, and be an advocate for health while living with Type I Diabetes! It's also been called Diabetuss (not really except for the old man in the commercial), Diabetes Mellitus, and Juvenile Diabetes. I want to tell my story so that others out there who might be feeling lost, confused, sad, petrified, what-have-you can have a cheerleader in their corner (and not a doctor-cheerleader).
Where oh where should I start? Well first of all, I am 26 years old and have been living with diabetes now for 9 years, which is hard to believe. If your math is as good as mine, you'll figure out that I was a senior in high school when I got diagnosed. Having fun yet?? It was actually two weeks after my graduation that I was diagnosed. June 17, 2002. But I must rewind. While the actual word "diabetes" was a complete and total shock, I had been relatively sick for about 6 months. Being "off" for 6 months and knowing why is pretty annoying; being "off" for 6 months and having ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA why is infuriating and a little bit scary. Picture this if you will (or try): you are the most thirsty you have ever been, ever. You might say you have sand in your mouth (but might not). You chug a billion gallons of water, yet still feel just as thirsty as before the chuggage. What the heck. That was symptom number one. Symptom number two was frequency of peeing. Holy bananas, I think I peed all day long. Symptom number three was weight loss. Extreme weight loss, and unexplained to boot. I guarantee everyone at my high school thought I'd become anorexic. I looked like skeletor. For a reference, I am about 155lbs today. By my diagnosis date, I was 117lbs. I'm 5'9. Unless I was trying out for heroin-addict-runway-model party time, that is not a good plan. Once I started noticing the weight loss (when it was getting to the scary point), I started to eat as much as I could, having a Snickers bar because it was a day that ended in 'y'... and I kept losing weight. Might sound like the dream diet, but good gravy it was not worth it. That brings me to symptom number four. ZERO energy. I mean zero. Not a brain-tired, but a oh-great-I-still-have-these-anvils-attached-to-my-ankles tired. And this was all happening in the midst of my last crew season. Zero energy + one of the most physically demanding sports out there = horrible. Those were the most prominent symptoms. And like they say (do you know They? So knowledgeable, really), hindsight is 20/20. Those are all FLAMING red flags for diabetes, but when you aren't thinking along those lines, then it's just mysterious.
As a senior in high school, obviously college was around the corner. I had to get a physical exam for the college's records (and my own of course), and when I went in, my doctor recommended I get some blood work done. She had also had me start a food diary, because I have no doubt she was worried I wasn't eating. Boy was she wrong. Fast forward to 2 weeks later and the phone rings. It's my doctor. It was June 17, and I was just getting ready to have some breakfast and my mom gets off the phone and calmly tells me that my doctor thinks I have diabetes and we should get to the hospital immediately. Oh. Right then. Uhhwhat? She told us that my blood sugar was 636. Normal blood sugar is about 80-150. HELLO! I later learned that most people at their diagnosis have blood sugars over 1000 and have acid in their blood. I was doing quite well all things considered. I asked my mom if I could even EAT anything, and my doctor had said maybe just some toast. So I had a half a bagel with jelly on it. After some diabetuss-schoolin from me, you'll learn that a bagel and jelly is quite possibly one of the worst choices I could've made! Woops!!
Off to the hospital we went, me dragging my negative-energy feet and so utterly numb as to what the frick was going on. Mum, for the record: I love you, and you did everything right. We got to the emergency room and they quickly got me hooked up to an IV (insulin and HYDRATION). I remember after about an hour or so, I looked at my mom and said, "I'm not thirsty!!!" What was in that IV, GOLD?! Gold sates thirst, FYI. That was an amazing feeling. The rest of that day is a bit of a blur, but I know I had some sort of sandwich in that room that really wasn't very good. I got transferred upstairs in Children's Hospital to continue with the remedies. And the beginning of the biggest learning curve I'd ever encounter. It was a LOT of information in a very little time; and forget about being inundated with information, I was having to assess the insane change that was going on in my life. Diabetes? Injections? What in the cripes are you telling me? One of my first thoughts was, "Oh my god... I'll never have a coffee frappe again." Coffee frappes (ice cream and milk for those of you who are not from Massachusetts) have been one of my most favorite ice cream situations in the world. And diabetes was going to take that away from me? Well color me deflated. And burgers and fries?? So many thoughts running through my head; one of which was questioning whether my choice to go to Virginia for college was a good idea anymore. I'd be so far away from my family, and I'd have to tell a random roommate why I had needles, what diabetes is, why I have it, what it's like, et cetera, et cetera, et cetera. HELP!!
After three days at Children's Hospital in Boston, I'd already gained about 5 pounds which was unreal. And I was HUNGRY. For 6 months, my body hadn't been processing food correctly, and wasn't converting it into fuel. Once that got 'fixed' my body was like, "WHOAAA, what is this?? This feels GOOD!" It was incredible, and I was ravenous. Hence the rapid (and healthy) weight gain! Despite several great things going on, I was so scared to go home. There would be no doctors to monitor me, nurses to come check my blood sugar at 2am just in case it dipped low. How on earth was supposed to do this on my own. Luckily it wasn't entirely on my own. I had the support of every single person in my family, which I am incredibly grateful for. I'm not sure what I would've done without them and their visits in the hospital! Everyone was a little bit scared for me, but that was hidden with hugs and cheers for dealing with this new diagnosis with vim and vigor!! But still. Scary. Seriously. My mom and I got back to the apartment and it was like, "Ok, so... now what do we do?" I felt accomplished after I walked to Walgreens on my own. That's how iffy everything felt- could I walk down the street without... what? Passing out? Tripping and landing on my diabetes? I was just a confused and scared mess. Going to sleep was petrifying. I had to set an alarm to wake up so I could check my blood sugar on my own to make sure it wasn't low. That first night it was at 90 when I checked. 90!! Yes!! But I FELT low, because when your blood sugar has been over 400 for so long, 90 feels low. I'll get into details in future posts about lows and highs and what they feel like. Anyway, the support of my family is what helped me through that whirlwind. My now step-dad was living with us and would figure out the exchanges for carbohydrates so I could calculate my insulin dosage, I was getting phone calls from family checking in, etc. Everyone was amazing and I am forever thankful to each and every one of them! I love you all.
So here is my maiden voyage of a blog post and I hope to continue and reach some people who might otherwise be lost and need some help. I feel like a seasoned diabetuss veteran, and would love more than anything to be a cheerleader to new diagnosees who think their normal life might be over. IT'S NOT! I went to Dairy Queen last night and had a Blizzard. And I have diabetes, remember? It's all about moderation, and exercise is a very important part of the maintenance. I love answering questions about it and my life with it, so please feel free to ask and/or comment. Until we meet again (or I add a new blog post...)!!
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