If you suspect that you may have adult onset diabetes it is imperative that you seek the advice of your physician for proper diagnosis and treatment. Diabetes can not be diagnosed at home. Using a home blood glucose monitor to test your glucose level is not sufficient for making a diagnosis, as normal glucose levels fluctuate throughout the day. A medical diagnosis requires lab tests to determine your blood glucose levels over time.
Instructions
1. Call your doctor if you suspect that you may have diabetes. Set up an appointment to discuss your symptoms with him and to determine if there may be other causes for your symptoms. Classic symptoms of diabetes are: increased thirst, increased urination, fatigue, dry skin, tingling or numbness of extremities, blurred vision or unexplained weight loss. Diabetes can strike at any time. Symptoms should be taken seriously.
2. Be honest with your doctor when he asks about symptoms. Pretending symptoms don't exist will not make them go away. You doctor will probably order lab work. Follow the doctor's instructions for fasting prior to the lab work. Check with the medical lab prior to testing to be sure you have followed the instructions correctly. Some tests require that you fast for 12 hours prior to the test; others do not. Remember fasting means no food or drinks for 12 hours. Even a simple mint or little drink of juice can throw off the test results.
3. Be prepared to have your blood drawn in the lab and to wait several days to hear the results.
4. Listen carefully when your doctor gives you the results. Ask questions if you do not understand the results or your doctor's instructions. Take any medication you are prescribed as directed and do not skip doses. Do not alter the dosage without your doctor's permission.
5. Follow all doctor recommendations and do not try to "sneak" a bite of forbidden foods. Your doctor may never know, but your body will. Exercise everyday to keep blood glucose levels within healthy limits. If you currently lead a sedentary lifestyle, start small and build up to longer periods of exercise. Try breaking the exercise into two or three short sessions throughout the day until you increase your strength and stamina.
6. Learn everything you can about your condition. The American Diabetes Association (see resource section) provides a wide variety of information regarding adult onset diabetes and offers tips for leading a healthy lifestyle. Talk to other who share your condition or join a support group in your area.
Tags: blood glucose, glucose levels, your doctor, adult onset, adult onset diabetes