I’m 24 (F) and just got diagnosed with diabetes today in the ER after my endocrinologist called me in a panic telling me I needed to be seen immediately because he thinks I’m in DKA. I had some weird symptoms for about a week and didn’t really think anything of it just thought my thyroid meds were too high so I got a bunch of bloodwork done on Friday and low and behold I have diabetes. The ER doctor said it seems like type 2 which is just so confusing to me because I’m healthy and I eat well and I’m active so idk how this could have happened so out of nowhere. I was a bit overweight because I had a baby but I’ve lost 25 pounds and am back in a normal BMI range. They did send out antibody tests to see if it’s type 1 but either way this just feels so sudden and unbelievable.
Just feeling very overwhelmed and sad that I have to live with this now. Any words of encouragement would be appreciated:)
I'd ask for the tests to determine for sure its type 2.
Second, genetics plays a huge role. Its not typically something you cause yourself to get. Especially if you generally follow healthy habits.
You're already seeing an endocrinologist so that's good. They'll likely go over diet and exercise recommendations.
Sure, it sucks and its hard to create new habits. It gets easier over time and we have amazing tools and technology to help. Just 100 years ago, it would be a death sentence. Now, I have a portable lab on my arm that gives me information every minute. They can integrate with insulin pumps and pens seem to be pretty easy to use. Finally we have medicatio s that support liver and kidney functions while decreasing insulin resistance.
Your new diet is very supported as well. Lots of information on vegetarian and vegan diets out there if you go that route. Lots of low carb and keto options as well. And people are generally more aware of personal diets so substitutions at restaurants etc are not a big deal either.
So, yeah, it's a shock and kind of a bummer but I find it to be very manageable after I got into my new routine. You got this.
Am i never allowed to eat food outside of a diabetic diet again??? I love trying new foods and going to new restaurants and pasta and sushi and literally all the things. I’m going to be so sad if I can never enjoy going to a restaurant with my fiancé again because all I’m allowed to eat is a piece of chicken and some veggies lol.
Depending on how you decide to manage(there's options within meds, exercise, diet) you will have different levels of flexibility.
Diet is a big part of how I manage mine - I eat low carb, but I still can eat most dishes at more legit Chinese restaurants, Korean BBQ, hot pot, kabobs, sashimi, charcuterie boards, and so much more. Plus, at home, my partner and I have started exploring lots of low carb baking, making delicious scallion pancakes, garlic bread, pizza, etc.
Depending on your values, priorities, doctor, personal research, and your body you will adapt and figure things out. Like, I occasionally still go to a great bakery near me, but I go with a friend and we eat the baked good and then get coffee to go and take a long walk.
None of us asked to be in this club, but many of us are doing pretty well.
And, if you are type 1.5 (make sure they do the tests), you potentially will have more flexibility if you are on insulin.
Its not that extreme. I can eat sushi. About 1/2 of what I used to. I switched to whole grain wheat and rye bread. I use lentil pasta now.
I can make adjustments to allow me to eat all the normal stuff. Example: early work meeting that will have doughnuts. I'll have one if I can take a walk about an hour later.
I can eat the things I want. I reduce the size and frequency.
I’d definitely make sure it’s type 2. My husband was 25 and, out of the blue, type 1. There are so many reasons for diabetes. You’ll probably never know what caused it
[deleted]
I’m sorry but I don’t know what any of that means! It sounds like you’re recovering or doing better though which is great. Good luck to you!!
If your thyroid meds are because of an autoimmune disease, that increases the likelihood that it's type 1. My endocrinologist regularly does blood work to keep an eye on my thyroid because once you have one, it increases the risk of the other. I'd keep an eye on your blood sugar and your ketones because DKA is a risk, unless they started you on insulin already.