Question:
I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull
Answers:
Welcome to the group. It certainly sounds like you have a full plate of health woes and I think it would be hard for anyone in your situation not to get down and depressed at times and venting is good. Diabetes is scary at first, but once you get the hang of it, it will probably be the lesser of your problems. Start with Jennifer's advice which I'm sure she'll be along to give you shortly. Post often, and I wish you the best. :-) -- Cheri Pit Bull wrote in message ... I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull
Answers:
"Pit Bull" <pit.bull5~verizon.net wrote in message news:stp4b.19302$CC6.2133~nwrddc01.gnilink.net... I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't iu. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Join the club! Many of us here have more than one problem we are dealing with. Keep in mind that your thyroid can affect your BG. So you need to make sure that you keep that under control too. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. This is the place to do it! Stick around. There are a lot of good people here. -- Type 2 http://users.bestweb.net/~jbove/
Answers:
Welcome to our not so little family. Hell, man, feel free to vent to your friends here. Most of us have done it at one time or another. This disease is not so bad once you learn to do a few things to control your BG. Things like, eat to your meter, do what works for you, remember that YMMV and test, Test, TEST. Best of luck to you. I look forward to reading your input. -- Chuck -ô¿ô- ~ Pit Bull wrote: I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull
Answers:
On Sun, 31 Aug 2003 16:35:36 GMT, "Pit Bull" <pit.bull5~verizon.net wrote: I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. I sure hope you have health insurance. Diabetes is the most expensive disease on the planet. Getting insurance with this disease is almost impossible. I assume you have a meter and are testing several times daily. If no insurance, call Roche at 1-800-858-8072 and request a Free Accu chek Advantage or Compact meter. Or, you can get a Freestyle meter at www.hocks.com for $19. Walmart has their Relion meter for $8.88 and 100 sticks for $42. At a retail outlet, that is the cheapest around. The cheapest place to get name brand sticks is www.EBay.com and www.hocks.com. To record those hopefully low BG's see Sig for a Free software package I author and distribute. With your numerous disorders, it could be an invaluable aid for you. Good luck. _____________________________________________ http://www.tcainternet.com/retired/index.html
Answers:
Hi PB... It sounds like you've got a lot going on! Sorry you had to add Diabetes to your list. The good news is, there is a lot you can do to get a grip on this disease. Here's the advice I give all newbies; There is so much to absorb... you don't have to rush into anything. Begin by using your best weapon in this war, your meter. You won't keel over today, you have time to experiment, test, learn, test and figure out just how your body and this disease are getting along. The most important thing you can do to learn about yourself and diabetes is test test test. The single biggest question a diabetic has to answer is: What do I eat? Unfortunately, the answer is pretty confusing. What confounds us all is the fact that different diabetics can get great results on wildly different food plans. Some of us here achieve great blood glucose control eating a high complex carbohydrate diet. Others find that anything over 75 - 100g of carbs a day is too much. Still others are somewhere in between. At the beginning all of us felt frustrated. We wanted to be handed THE way to eat, to ensure our continued health. But we all learned that there is no one way. Each of us had to find our own path, using the experience of those that went before, but still having to discover for ourselves how OUR bodies and this disease were coexisting. Ask questions, but remember each of us discovered on our own what works best for us. You can use our experiences as jumping off points, but eventually you'll work up a successful plan that is yours alone. What you are looking to discover is how different foods affect you. As I'm sure you've read, carbohydrates (sugars, wheat, rice... the things our Grandmas called "starches") raise blood sugars the most rapidly. Protein and fat do raise them, but not as high and much more slowly... so if you're a T2, generally the insulin your body still makes may take care of the rise. You might want to try some experiments. First: Eat whatever you've been currently eating... but write it all down. Test yourself at the following times: Upon waking (fasting) 1 hour after each meal 2 hours after each meal At bedtime That means 8 x each day. What you will discover by this is how long after a meal your highest reading comes... and how fast you return to "normal". Also, you may see that a meal that included bread, fruit or other carbs gives you a higher reading. Then for the next few days, try to curb your carbs. Eliminate breads, cereals, rices, beans, any wheat products, potato, corn, fruit... get all your carbs from veggies. Test at the same schedule above. If you try this for a few days, you may find some pretty damn good readings. It's worth a few days to discover. Eventually you can slowly add back carbs until you see them affecting your meter. The thing about this disease... though we share much in common and we need to follow certain guidelines... in the end, each of our bodies dictate our treatment and our success. The closer we get to non-diabetic numbers, the greater chance we have of avoiding horrible complications. The key here is AIM... I know that everyone is at a different point in their disease... and it is progressive. But, if we aim for the best numbers and do our best, we give ourselves the best shot at heath we've got. That's all we can do. Here's my opinion on what numbers to aim for, they are non-diabetic numbers. FBG under 110 One hour after meals under 140 Two hours after meals under 120 or for those in the mmol parts of the world: Fasting Under 6 One hour after meals Under 8 Two hours after meals Under 6.5 Recent studies have indicated that the most important numbers are your "after meal" numbers. They may be the most indicative of future complications, especially heart problems. Listen to your doctor, but you are the leader of your diabetic care team. While his /her advice is learned, it is not absolute. You will end up knowing much more about your body and how it's handling diabetes than your doctor will. Your meter is your best weapon. Just remember, we're not in a race or a competition with anyone but ourselves... Play around with your food plan... TEST TEST TEST. Learn what foods cause spikes, what foods cause cravings... Use your body as a science experiment. You'll read about a lot of different ways people use to control their diabetes... Many are diametrically opposed. After awhile you'll learn that there is no one size fits all around here. Take some time to experiment and you'll soon discover the plan that works for you. Best of luck! Jennifer Pit Bull wrote: I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull
Answers:
Hang tight and keep posting. I see Jennifer has posted her golden advice. Read it and absorb it. It will make a difference in your readings. -- c website http://www.plazaearth.com/philo "Pit Bull" <pit.bull5~verizon.net wrote in message news:stp4b.19302$CC6.2133~nwrddc01.gnilink.net... I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't iu. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull
Answers:
I agree with Colleen, Jennifer is Queen of Diabeties Advice. (Hi Jennifer I remember you sending that advice to me when I was diagnosed) Pit Bull, If you ever want to vent, come here to vent. We all have been there at one time or another. Multi medical problems seems to group around diabeties. And depression hits hard on some of us at times. Hang in there and post as often as you like. We are not Dr.s but we all have diabeties. So we can say Been there, done that , and still here. Ira t2 for 2 My wife is a t2 also. "Colleen" <{oopsh_5~hotmail.com} wrote in message news:vl4tgromnsnq63~corp.supernews.com... Hang tight and keep posting. I see Jennifer has posted her golden advice. Read it and absorb it. It will make a difference in your readings. -- c website http://www.plazaearth.com/philo "Pit Bull" <pit.bull5~verizon.net wrote in message news:stp4b.19302$CC6.2133~nwrddc01.gnilink.net... I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull
Answers:
Pit Bull, I am one of those people who believe an occasional pity party is fine, How strong can we be at all times. You do have many serious conditions, It would be enough to drive the strongest person insane, considering the circumstaces, it sounds like you are handling it pretty well. Are there meds now for Tourettes that keep your body from the shakes. You may have all those meds. but arent we grateful that there are those meds that help us. I wish you luck. Please stay with us We are here to support and inform, Loretta -- In tribute to the United States of America and the State of Israel, two bastions of strength in a world filled with strife and terrorism.
Answers:
Hi Pit Bull, I just recently joined also. I have been diagnosed as Bipolar, and have arthritis, PTSD, borderline Agoraphobic -- I also have my own miniature pharmacy sitting on my desk. Last February I got dizzy and fell and fractured my knee. It swelled up badly and got red and hot, so my doctor ran some tests. I have had problems with numbness in my right foot and numbness in both hands for some time. My doctor told me I am diabetic -- I feel like you -- just what I needed. I often get dizzy and pass out sometimes it is from my panic attacks, but other times it is different. I have had seizures before, and sometimes that is how it feels. I got a strange feeling one day and tried to grab the refrigerator before falling, but I didn't make it. I remember hitting the floor, and when I came to -- I heard this strange sound -- I finally discovered the strange sounds were myself -- it scared me. My grand daughter was home with me -- at the time she was only 5 -- this scared me even more. I have been battling Manic/Depression all my life and now this. I am terrified of needles and objects that cut and stab -- so this was not something I enjoyed hearing. I know there is no way I can check my own blood -- I go into panic attacks just tolerating the needles from tests that my doctor needs. My grandfather was called a "Borderline Diabetic" -- from what I have read here, that term doesn't seem to be accepted. I am sorry for being so stupid about Diabetes -- I can't seem to get any real information that helps me. One of my aunts I discovered is diabetic, and I also found out that my Biological father had diabetes in his family. My great - grandmother died from the disease. My doctors have had a hard time treating me because I have such bad side effects to medications. So many Bipolar medications sedate me, and cause weight gain. It's my belief that they slow down a persons whole system. Weight gain is not good for being diabetic. Arthritis does not make it easy to exercise -- with the added weight it makes it so much worse. When you can't wake up, it's extremely difficult to exercise. I feel like I am caught in a horrible never ending circle. I'm very confused and little angry too -- wondering why did I have to have this added too, didn't I have enough to deal with already? I really can understand how you feel right now. I am looking for a way out of the same hole. I came here hoping for some advice and some information. Joy "Pit Bull" <pit.bull5~verizon.net wrote in message news:stp4b.19302$CC6.2133~nwrddc01.gnilink.net... I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have iu. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't iv. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull
Answers:
On Mon, 01 Sep 2003 23:06:43 GMT, <forbs~pacbell.net wrote: Hi Pit Bull, I just recently joined also. I have been diagnosed as Bipolar, and have arthritis, PTSD, borderline Agoraphobic -- I also have my own miniature pharmacy sitting on my desk. Last February I got dizzy and fell and fractured my knee. It swelled up badly and got red and hot, so my doctor ran some tests. I have had problems with numbness in my right foot and numbness in both hands for some time. My doctor told me I am diabetic -- I feel like you -- just what I needed. I often get dizzy and pass out sometimes it is from my panic attacks, but other times it is different. I have had seizures before, and sometimes that is how it feels. I got a strange feeling one day and tried to grab the refrigerator before falling, but I didn't make it. I remember hitting the floor, and when I came to -- I heard this strange sound -- I finally discovered the strange sounds were myself -- it scared me. My grand daughter was home with me -- at the time she was only 5 -- this scared me even more. I have been battling Manic/Depression all my life and now this. I am terrified of needles and objects that cut and stab -- so this was not something I enjoyed hearing. I know there is no way I can check my own blood -- I go into panic attacks just tolerating the needles from tests that my doctor needs. My grandfather was called a "Borderline Diabetic" -- from what I have read here, that term doesn't seem to be accepted. I am sorry for being so stupid about Diabetes -- I can't seem to get any real information that helps me. One of my aunts I discovered is diabetic, and I also found out that my Biological father had diabetes in his family. My great - grandmother died from the disease. My doctors have had a hard time treating me because I have such bad side effects to medications. So many Bipolar medications sedate me, and cause weight gain. It's my belief that they slow down a persons whole system. Weight gain is not good for being diabetic. Arthritis does not make it easy to exercise -- with the added weight it makes it so much worse. When you can't wake up, it's extremely difficult to exercise. I feel like I am caught in a horrible never ending circle. I'm very confused and little angry too -- wondering why did I have to have this added too, didn't I have enough to deal with already? I really can understand how you feel right now. I am looking for a way out of the same hole. I came here hoping for some advice and some information. Joy "Pit Bull" <pit.bull5~verizon.net wrote in message news:stp4b.19302$CC6.2133~nwrddc01.gnilink.net... I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull Well Joy, Nice to see you posting. Too bad you have to be here. Believe me, you are not alone. I myself suffer from lifelong clinical depression, with side orders of Agoraphobia and Bi-Polar disease, amongst my list of ailments. Many become situationaly depressed when first diagnosed, or the Dx can send some low enough that a clinical depression becomes more evident and can be treated. We also have a bunch of people who post here, that suffer immensly from depression, but have themselves convinced that it is a sign of weakness, or lack of character, instead of a chemical imbalance in the brain that *can* be cured, though it doesn't work for everyone. They seem to think that they will turn into zombies if they take depression meds, instead of the possible lifting of a dark shroud that often surrounds them. It is good to speak of these things. I find it therapeutic. As to your needle phobia, it is a fairly common thing. Just wondering, but have you considered therapy, or maybe hypnosis, to lessen your fear? I think if you could get the one thing under control, maybe other fears or phobias could then be dealt with. Just some random thoughts. I am not trained in any medical fields, so take all I say with a grain of salt. It Will Get Better! Sleepy ================================ OK, so what's the speed of dark? ================================
Answers:
Just want to chime in that I also deal with mental health problems along with diabetes. Bipolar is not a picnic. Neither is diabetes. However, I decided that I want to live and live to the best of my abilities and do whatever I need to do to maintain it. For me it means meds, both psych and diabetes, diet and exercise. It is just something I have to do if I want to live. Coming and posting here is a great help. It keeps me grounded to be able to read how others are doing and help when I can. I also post to a moderated bipolar group that has helped with that part of my life. No, it's not fun to have multiple diagnoses and it's not easy. I think a lot of us posting here were frightened and overwhelmed at first. I also think a lot of us have learned to deal with this as well as we can. Knowing one is fighting the "good fight" makes coping that much easier. As far as needle phobia goes, if you can find a therapist that works with desensitization that can help. It gradually helps you to get through the needle phobia. A lot of us had really bad experiences with needles as children. I know when I was little the needles were not as fine as they are now. For diabetes testing the lancing instruments are nearly painless. I've had haircuts hurt more. <g For blood testing you can have the phlebotomist use a pediatric or butterfly needle. They are super fine. If you don't watch, you don't even feel them go in. Often the phlebotomists will have someone lie down facing away from them. It seems to help with the anxiety. With the medical history you a describing you have some serious problems with the diabetes. Believe it or not, now that I have my glucose under control my moods are becoming more stable. -- c website http://www.plazaearth.com/philo <forbs~pacbell.net wrote in message news:7iQ4b.8642$bv6.1984~newssvr27.news.prodigy.com... Hi Pit Bull, I just recently joined also. I have been diagnosed as Bipolar, and have arthritis, PTSD, borderline Agoraphobic -- I also have my own miniature pharmacy sitting on my desk. Last February I got dizzy and fell and fractured my knee. It swelled up badly and got red and hot, so my doctor ran some tests. I have had problems with numbness in my right foot and numbness in both hands for some time. My doctor told me I am diabetic -- I feel like you -- just what I needed. I often get dizzy and pass out sometimes it is from my panic attacks, but other times it is different. I have had seizures before, and sometimes that is how it feels. I got a strange feeling one day and tried to grab the refrigerator before falling, but I didn't make it. I remember hitting the floor, and when I came to -- I heard this strange sound -- I finally discovered the strange sounds were myself -- it scared me. My grand daughter was home with me -- at the time she was only 5 -- this scared me even more. I have been battling Manic/Depression all my life and now this. I am terrified of needles and objects that cut and stab -- so this was not something I enjoyed hearing. I know there is no way I can check my own blood -- I go into panic attacks just tolerating the needles from tests that my doctor needs. My grandfather was called a "Borderline Diabetic" -- from what I have read here, that term doesn't seem to be accepted. I am sorry for being so stupid about Diabetes -- I can't seem to get any real information that helps me. One of my aunts I discovered is diabetic, and I also found out that my Biological father had diabetes in his family. My great - grandmother died from the disease. My doctors have had a hard time treating me because I have such bad side effects to medications. So many Bipolar medications sedate me, and cause weight gain. It's my belief that they slow down a persons whole system. Weight gain is not good for being diabetic. Arthritis does not make it easy to exercise -- with the added weight it makes it so much worse. When you can't wake up, it's extremely difficult to exercise. I feel like I am caught in a horrible never ending circle. I'm very confused and little angry too -- wondering why did I have to have this added too, didn't I have enough to deal with already? I really can understand how you feel right now. I am looking for a way out of the same hole. I came here hoping for some advice and some information. Joy "Pit Bull" <pit.bull5~verizon.net wrote in message news:stp4b.19302$CC6.2133~nwrddc01.gnilink.net... I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull
Answers:
Thank you for responding. Since I found out I was diabetic the numbness really scares me. I really don't want to loose feet and fingers. I am scared that is where I am heading. I thought it was a pinched nerve, but now I know different. If I understand what I have been told, it's a circulation problem. Exercise would probably help me most -- after I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder I was put on Depakote -- I felt more stable, but it caused me to gain weight quickly. My hair began to fall out -- when my daughter said I had a bald looking spot on top of my head that was just too much. I have been on just about every mood stabilizer there is. Trileptal finally worked, but it was just too expensive. I am on Seroquel now and it just knocks me out. My husband works nights, so we sleep in the day and are up nights. Finding a time to walk is difficult and I don't like walking alone because I pass out. I don't drive anymore because I will not put others at risk if I black out. I can't even be alone with my grandbabies because I fear passing out while holding them, or worse -- if I pass out and they are here alone -- the older kids could go out and get hit by a car or something. The needle phobia isn't the fear of the pain. It doesn't hurt me. I start thinking about what the needle is doing -- stabbing through my skin into the vein -- well then I get sick and start hyperventilating. I tell the nurses just stab me and get it over with. Another problem is they have a hard time finding my veins -- I am told they are very small and move. Most of them have to stab me a dozen times to get blood from me, and they usually end up having to get it above my fingers on the top of my hand -- that does hurt. Only one nurse is able to get them in one or two tries. I think my blood levels may contribute to my moods too. I try to go without eating to lose weight. But when I do that I get shaky and jittery. Everything seems to bother and upset me more. I get real dizzy. Is that signs of my blood sugar being bad? Often I would pass out and the college would call the ambulance. I would be all shaky. I just don't even know where to start. I hate asking doctors anymore -- I feel like all I do is complain. I never was sick as a young girl -- so this has just completely thrown me off balance. Joy "Colleen" <{oopsh_5~hotmail.com} wrote in message news:vl7qgnmkvqb04a~corp.supernews.com... Just want to chime in that I also deal with mental health problems along with diabetes. Bipolar is not a picnic. Neither is diabetes. However, I decided that I want to live and live to the best of my abilities and do whatever I need to do to maintain it. For me it means meds, both psych and diabetes, diet and exercise. It is just something I have to do if I want to live. Coming and posting here is a great help. It keeps me grounded to be able to read how others are doing and help when I can. I also post to a moderated bipolar group that has helped with that part of my life. No, it's not fun to have multiple diagnoses and it's not easy. I think a lot of us posting here were frightened and overwhelmed at first. I also think a lot of us have learned to deal with this as well as we can. Knowing one is fighting the "good fight" makes coping that much easier. As far as needle phobia goes, if you can find a therapist that works with desensitization that can help. It gradually helps you to get through the needle phobia. A lot of us had really bad experiences with needles as children. I know when I was little the needles were not as fine as they are now. For diabetes testing the lancing instruments are nearly painless. I've had haircuts hurt more. <g For blood testing you can have the phlebotomist use a pediatric or butterfly needle. They are super fine. If you don't watch, you don't even feel them go in. Often the phlebotomists will have someone lie down facing away from them. It seems to help with the anxiety. With the medical history you a describing you have some serious problems with the diabetes. Believe it or not, now that I have my glucose under control my moods are becoming more stable. -- c website http://www.plazaearth.com/philo <forbs~pacbell.net wrote in message news:7iQ4b.8642$bv6.1984~newssvr27.news.prodigy.com... Hi Pit Bull, I just recently joined also. I have been diagnosed as Bipolar, and have arthritis, PTSD, borderline Agoraphobic -- I also have my own miniature pharmacy sitting on my desk. Last February I got dizzy and fell and fractured my knee. It swelled up badly and got red and hot, so my doctor ran some tests. I have had problems with numbness in my right foot and numbness in both hands for some time. My doctor told me I am diabetic -- I feel like you -- just what I needed. I often get dizzy and pass out sometimes it is from my panic attacks, but other times it is different. I have had seizures before, and sometimes that is how it feels. I got a strange feeling one day and tried to grab the refrigerator before falling, but I didn't make it. I remember hitting the floor, and when I came to -- I heard this strange sound -- I finally discovered the strange sounds were myself -- it scared me. My grand daughter was home with me -- at the time she was only 5 -- this scared me even more. I have been battling Manic/Depression all my life and now this. I am terrified of needles and objects that cut and stab -- so this was not something I enjoyed hearing. I know there is no way I can check my own blood -- I go into panic attacks just tolerating the needles from tests that my doctor needs. My grandfather was called a "Borderline Diabetic" -- from what I have read here, that term doesn't seem to be accepted. I am sorry for being so stupid about Diabetes -- I can't seem to get any real information that helps me. One of my aunts I discovered is diabetic, and I also found out that my Biological father had diabetes in his family. My great - grandmother died from the disease. My doctors have had a hard time treating me because I have such bad side effects to medications. So many Bipolar medications sedate me, and cause weight gain. It's my belief that they slow down a persons whole system. Weight gain is not good for being diabetic. Arthritis does not make it easy to exercise -- with the added weight it makes it so much worse. When you can't wake up, it's extremely difficult to exercise. I feel like I am caught in a horrible never ending circle. I'm very confused and little angry too -- wondering why did I have to have this added too, didn't I have enough to deal with already? I really can understand how you feel right now. I am looking for a way out of the same hole. I came here hoping for some advice and some information. Joy "Pit Bull" <pit.bull5~verizon.net wrote in message news:stp4b.19302$CC6.2133~nwrddc01.gnilink.net... I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull
Answers:
<forbs~pacbell.net wrote in message news:UMV4b.10162$7b7.9843~newssvr25.news.prodigy.com... Thank you for responding. Since I found out I was diabetic the numbness really scares me. I really don't want to loose feet and fingers. I am scared that is where I am heading. I thought it was a pinched nerve, but now I know different. If I understand what I have been told, it's a circulation problem. Exercise would probably help me most -- after I was The numbness and tingling is probably neuropathy caused by high blood sugars. It often gets better with good diabetic control. Without it, it will only get worse. If that happens you fears will become a reality. With good control further damage can be avoided. diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder I was put on Depakote -- I felt more stable, but it caused me to gain weight quickly. My hair began to fall out -- when my daughter said I had a bald looking spot on top of my head that was just too much. I have been on just about every mood stabilizer there is. Trileptal finally worked, but it was just too expensive. I am on Seroquel now and it just knocks me out. Depakote was an awful med for me. Turned me into a zombie and I gained a ton of weight. I take Trileptal and I can say it's the only med that has been effective without major side effects. Doctors should be able to get you samples. Some pharmaceutical companies have patient programs for meds. They are income contingent so you may not qualify. If I were you, I'd try everything possible to get back onto the Trilpetal. Your mental well being is worth it. Seroquel is an anti-psychotic that is sometimes used in bipolar. One of the drawbacks to these meds is they aggravate diabetes. Do your doctors even know this? My husband works nights, so we sleep in the day and are up nights. Finding a time to walk is difficult and I don't like walking alone because I pass out. I don't drive anymore because I will not put others at risk if I black out. I can't even be alone with my grandbabies because I fear passing out while holding them, or worse -- if I pass out and they are here alone -- the older kids could go out and get hit by a car or something. What about walking when he gets home in the morning? There must be at least one hour per day where you both are in daylight. The needle phobia isn't the fear of the pain. It doesn't hurt me. I start thinking about what the needle is doing -- stabbing through my skin into the vein -- well then I get sick and start hyperventilating. I tell the nurses just stab me and get it over with. Another problem is they have a hard time finding my veins -- I am told they are very small and move. Most of them have to stab me a dozen times to get blood from me, and they usually end up having to get it above my fingers on the top of my hand -- that does hurt. Only one nurse is able to get them in one or two tries. Ask them to use a pediatric needle. It's super fine and able to get in even the tiniest of veins. Also, some relaxation techniques can help. The more tense you are the harder it is to draw. Remember, your veins feel nothing and the amount of blood that is drawn is miniscule compared to the amount in your body. You need to do something about this phobia if you want to be well. That is a fact that can't be avoided. I think my blood levels may contribute to my moods too. I try to go without eating to lose weight. But when I do that I get shaky and jittery. Everything seems to bother and upset me more. I get real dizzy. Is that signs of my blood sugar being bad? Often I would pass out and the college would call the ambulance. I would be all shaky. The WORST thing someone with diabetes can do is go without eating. It screws things up even more. You must eat at least three well balanced meals a day. You will lose more weight in the long term by keeping your glucose levels stable. You need to see a dietician and attend some diabetes education classes. No excuses for this one if you want to get this under control. Jennifer posts some excellent advice on gaining control of BG's. Do a search for it and read it. Keep posting here with questions and you will learn quickly how to get the diabetes in better control. I just don't even know where to start. I hate asking doctors anymore -- I feel like all I do is complain. I never was sick as a young girl -- so this has just completely thrown me off balance. How are the doctors to know you are doing poorly if you don't tell them? It's their JOB to hear your complaints and help you. It's your JOB to follow through and do your part. You are the head of your medical/psychiatric team. Be proactive. Being passive is only going to make you sicker. -- c website http://www.plazaearth.com/philo Joy "Colleen" <{oopsh_5~hotmail.com} wrote in message news:vl7qgnmkvqb04a~corp.supernews.com... Just want to chime in that I also deal with mental health problems along with diabetes. Bipolar is not a picnic. Neither is diabetes. However, I decided that I want to live and live to the best of my abilities and do whatever I need to do to maintain it. For me it means meds, both psych and diabetes, diet and exercise. It is just something I have to do if I want to live. Coming and posting here is a great help. It keeps me grounded to be able to read how others are doing and help when I can. I also post to a moderated bipolar group that has helped with that part of my life. No, it's not fun to have multiple diagnoses and it's not easy. I think a lot of us posting here were frightened and overwhelmed at first. I also think a lot of us have learned to deal with this as well as we can. Knowing one is fighting the "good fight" makes coping that much easier. As far as needle phobia goes, if you can find a therapist that works with desensitization that can help. It gradually helps you to get through the needle phobia. A lot of us had really bad experiences with needles as children. I know when I was little the needles were not as fine as they are now. For diabetes testing the lancing instruments are nearly painless. I've had haircuts hurt more. <g For blood testing you can have the phlebotomist use a pediatric or butterfly needle. They are super fine. If you don't watch, you don't even feel them go in. Often the phlebotomists will have someone lie down facing away from them. It seems to help with the anxiety. With the medical history you a describing you have some serious problems with the diabetes. Believe it or not, now that I have my glucose under control my moods are becoming more stable. -- c website http://www.plazaearth.com/philo <forbs~pacbell.net wrote in message news:7iQ4b.8642$bv6.1984~newssvr27.news.prodigy.com... Hi Pit Bull, I just recently joined also. I have been diagnosed as Bipolar, and have arthritis, PTSD, borderline Agoraphobic -- I also have my own miniature pharmacy sitting on my desk. Last February I got dizzy and fell and fractured my knee. It swelled up badly and got red and hot, so my doctor ran some tests. I have had problems with numbness in my right foot and numbness in both hands for some time. My doctor told me I am diabetic -- I feel like you -- just what I needed. I often get dizzy and pass out sometimes it is from my panic attacks, but other times it is different. I have had seizures before, and sometimes that is how it feels. I got a strange feeling one day and tried to grab the refrigerator before falling, but I didn't make it. I remember hitting the floor, and when I came to -- I heard this strange sound -- I finally discovered the strange sounds were myself -- it scared me. My grand daughter was home with me -- at the time she was only 5 -- this scared me even more. I have been battling Manic/Depression all my life and now this. I am terrified of needles and objects that cut and stab -- so this was not something I enjoyed hearing. I know there is no way I can check my own blood -- I go into panic attacks just tolerating the needles from tests that my doctor needs. My grandfather was called a "Borderline Diabetic" -- from what I have read here, that term doesn't seem to be accepted. I am sorry for being so stupid about Diabetes -- I can't seem to get any real information that helps me. One of my aunts I discovered is diabetic, and I also found out that my Biological father had diabetes in his family. My great - grandmother died from the disease. My doctors have had a hard time treating me because I have such bad side effects to medications. So many Bipolar medications sedate me, and cause weight gain. It's my belief that they slow down a persons whole system. Weight gain is not good for being diabetic. Arthritis does not make it easy to exercise -- with the added weight it makes it so much worse. When you can't wake up, it's extremely difficult to exercise. I feel like I am caught in a horrible never ending circle. I'm very confused and little angry too -- wondering why did I have to have this added too, didn't I have enough to deal with already? I really can understand how you feel right now. I am looking for a way out of the same hole. I came here hoping for some advice and some information. Joy "Pit Bull" <pit.bull5~verizon.net wrote in message news:stp4b.19302$CC6.2133~nwrddc01.gnilink.net... I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull
Answers:
Thank you again for the information. I wasn't aware that Seroquel could make diabetes worse. I did prefer the Trileptal, my doctor was giving me samples for a while. Then I had to get the prescriptions. They were charging us 80 dollars for the prescription after our insurance paid their share. I was trying to eat more cautiously, my doctor said more vegetables and carbs. Hamburgers and Pizza he said do not exist for me anymore. At least not now. He was more concerned about fast foods. I was feeling better until I was put on the Seroquel. My psychiatrist doesn't know about the diabetes, now that I think about it. I fell in February and it was April when my regular doctor ran all the tests. I will make sure and mention it at my next appointment. I got real cranky doing without all my favorite foods, everything I like seems to be something I can't have anymore. I know that sounds childish too -- I found all this out on my birthday -- it just wasn't a birthday present I wanted. I guess I will have to face the fact that I can't go out and eat what I "want" anymore. Being healthy so I can enjoy my grandbabies is what I really want. I really enjoyed taking the kids to McDonalds and to our favorite Pizza place. If this runs in the family -- I think it is probably best for me to learn and teach my grandkids so they don't ever have to get as bad as I did. The last few weeks I just got so angry and indulged in everything I felt I was being deprived of. I know it was stupid and set me back in my diet. I felt so sick after ward. Sometimes my moods get in the way of what I know is best. Now I have to start all over with my diet -- I hate myself for failing. My husband works 4 pm to 12:30 am. We sleep during the morning and early noon. If he can't find a time to walk with me before work, I will have to schedule in something -- I will work on that. I really want to be able to spend time with my kids and grandkids, and not sit around like some incapable invalid. I don't want them remembering me that way. I am really sorry to sound so stupid on this subject. I don't have a problem knowing what to eat for lunch and dinner, but breakfast is another subject. I have always loved pancakes, belgium waffles, and oatmeal and Cream of Wheat. I'm not much for the eggs, and bacon breakfast. Are the whole grains a complete no, no like oatmeal? My doctor said I even need to be careful about having too much fruit. I don't use salts because I also have high blood pressure. I don't use butter anymore, or sugar. I use very little sugar substitutes. Is there something you could suggest for breakfast? I usually drink lots of water, and sometimes like to squeeze fresh lemon juice into the water, no sugar just juice. Is this bad? My doctor said I have to be careful with fruit acids. I drink caffeine free diet Pepsi a few times during the week, I try to limit that because it seems the carbonation causes me to retain fluids. See? I sound like a hypochondriac. I have tried to find diets on the internet for persons with diabetes but haven't had much luck. I can keep trying. There is a dietician where I see my regular doctor, I have been having bad panic attacks and haven't been able to be around strangers. I know that sounds pathetic, I am trying to get it under control. Thank you again for taking the time to give me some advice and information. I appreciate it very much. Joy "Colleen" <{oopsh_5~hotmail.com} wrote in message news:vl95leld5j7263~corp.supernews.com... <forbs~pacbell.net wrote in message news:UMV4b.10162$7b7.9843~newssvr25.news.prodigy.com... Thank you for responding. Since I found out I was diabetic the numbness really scares me. I really don't want to loose feet and fingers. I am scared that is where I am heading. I thought it was a pinched nerve, but now I know different. If I understand what I have been told, it's a circulation problem. Exercise would probably help me most -- after I was The numbness and tingling is probably neuropathy caused by high blood sugars. It often gets better with good diabetic control. Without it, it will only get worse. If that happens you fears will become a reality. With good control further damage can be avoided. diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder I was put on Depakote -- I felt more stable, but it caused me to gain weight quickly. My hair began to fall out -- when my daughter said I had a bald looking spot on top of my head that was just too much. I have been on just about every mood stabilizer there is. Trileptal finally worked, but it was just too expensive. I am on Seroquel now and it just knocks me out. Depakote was an awful med for me. Turned me into a zombie and I gained a ton of weight. I take Trileptal and I can say it's the only med that has been effective without major side effects. Doctors should be able to get you samples. Some pharmaceutical companies have patient programs for meds. They are income contingent so you may not qualify. If I were you, I'd try everything possible to get back onto the Trilpetal. Your mental well being is worth it. Seroquel is an anti-psychotic that is sometimes used in bipolar. One of the drawbacks to these meds is they aggravate diabetes. Do your doctors even know this? My husband works nights, so we sleep in the day and are up nights. Finding a time to walk is difficult and I don't like walking alone because I pass out. I don't drive anymore because I will not put others at risk if I black out. I can't even be alone with my grandbabies because I fear passing out while holding them, or worse -- if I pass out and they are here alone -- the older kids could go out and get hit by a car or something. What about walking when he gets home in the morning? There must be at least one hour per day where you both are in daylight. The needle phobia isn't the fear of the pain. It doesn't hurt me. I start thinking about what the needle is doing -- stabbing through my skin into the vein -- well then I get sick and start hyperventilating. I tell the nurses just stab me and get it over with. Another problem is they have a hard time finding my veins -- I am told they are very small and move. Most of them have to stab me a dozen times to get blood from me, and they usually end up having to get it above my fingers on the top of my hand -- that does hurt. Only one nurse is able to get them in one or two tries. Ask them to use a pediatric needle. It's super fine and able to get in even the tiniest of veins. Also, some relaxation techniques can help. The more tense you are the harder it is to draw. Remember, your veins feel nothing and the amount of blood that is drawn is miniscule compared to the amount in your body. You need to do something about this phobia if you want to be well. That is a fact that can't be avoided. I think my blood levels may contribute to my moods too. I try to go without eating to lose weight. But when I do that I get shaky and jittery. Everything seems to bother and upset me more. I get real dizzy. Is that signs of my blood sugar being bad? Often I would pass out and the college would call the ambulance. I would be all shaky. The WORST thing someone with diabetes can do is go without eating. It screws things up even more. You must eat at least three well balanced meals a day. You will lose more weight in the long term by keeping your glucose levels stable. You need to see a dietician and attend some diabetes education classes. No excuses for this one if you want to get this under control. Jennifer posts some excellent advice on gaining control of BG's. Do a search for it and read it. Keep posting here with questions and you will learn quickly how to get the diabetes in better control. I just don't even know where to start. I hate asking doctors anymore -- I feel like all I do is complain. I never was sick as a young girl -- so this has just completely thrown me off balance. How are the doctors to know you are doing poorly if you don't tell them? It's their JOB to hear your complaints and help you. It's your JOB to follow through and do your part. You are the head of your medical/psychiatric team. Be proactive. Being passive is only going to make you sicker. -- c website http://www.plazaearth.com/philo Joy "Colleen" <{oopsh_5~hotmail.com} wrote in message news:vl7qgnmkvqb04a~corp.supernews.com... Just want to chime in that I also deal with mental health problems along with diabetes. Bipolar is not a picnic. Neither is diabetes. However, I decided that I want to live and live to the best of my abilities and do whatever I need to do to maintain it. For me it means meds, both psych and diabetes, diet and exercise. It is just something I have to do if I want to live. Coming and posting here is a great help. It keeps me grounded to be able to read how others are doing and help when I can. I also post to a moderated bipolar group that has helped with that part of my life. No, it's not fun to have multiple diagnoses and it's not easy. I think a lot of us posting here were frightened and overwhelmed at first. I also think a lot of us have learned to deal with this as well as we can. Knowing one is fighting the "good fight" makes coping that much easier. As far as needle phobia goes, if you can find a therapist that works with desensitization that can help. It gradually helps you to get through the needle phobia. A lot of us had really bad experiences with needles as children. I know when I was little the needles were not as fine as they are now. For diabetes testing the lancing instruments are nearly painless. I've had haircuts hurt more. <g For blood testing you can have the phlebotomist use a pediatric or butterfly needle. They are super fine. If you don't watch, you don't even feel them go in. Often the phlebotomists will have someone lie down facing away from them. It seems to help with the anxiety. With the medical history you a describing you have some serious problems with the diabetes. Believe it or not, now that I have my glucose under control my moods are becoming more stable. -- c website http://www.plazaearth.com/philo <forbs~pacbell.net wrote in message news:7iQ4b.8642$bv6.1984~newssvr27.news.prodigy.com... Hi Pit Bull, I just recently joined also. I have been diagnosed as Bipolar, and have arthritis, PTSD, borderline Agoraphobic -- I also have my own miniature pharmacy sitting on my desk. Last February I got dizzy and fell and fractured my knee. It swelled up badly and got red and hot, so my doctor ran some tests. I have had problems with numbness in my right foot and numbness in both hands for some time. My doctor told me I am diabetic -- I feel like you -- just what I needed. I often get dizzy and pass out sometimes it is from my panic attacks, but other times it is different. I have had seizures before, and sometimes that is how it feels. I got a strange feeling one day and tried to grab the refrigerator before falling, but I didn't make it. I remember hitting the floor, and when I came to -- I heard this strange sound -- I finally discovered the strange sounds were myself -- it scared me. My grand daughter was home with me -- at the time she was only 5 -- this scared me even more. I have been battling Manic/Depression all my life and now this. I am terrified of needles and objects that cut and stab -- so this was not something I enjoyed hearing. I know there is no way I can check my own blood -- I go into panic attacks just tolerating the needles from tests that my doctor needs. My grandfather was called a "Borderline Diabetic" -- from what I have read here, that term doesn't seem to be accepted. I am sorry for being so stupid about Diabetes -- I can't seem to get any real information that helps me. One of my aunts I discovered is diabetic, and I also found out that my Biological father had diabetes in his family. My great - grandmother died from the disease. My doctors have had a hard time treating me because I have such bad side effects to medications. So many Bipolar medications sedate me, and cause weight gain. It's my belief that they slow down a persons whole system. Weight gain is not good for being diabetic. Arthritis does not make it easy to exercise -- with the added weight it makes it so much worse. When you can't wake up, it's extremely difficult to exercise. I feel like I am caught in a horrible never ending circle. I'm very confused and little angry too -- wondering why did I have to have this added too, didn't I have enough to deal with already? I really can understand how you feel right now. I am looking for a way out of the same hole. I came here hoping for some advice and some information. Joy "Pit Bull" <pit.bull5~verizon.net wrote in message news:stp4b.19302$CC6.2133~nwrddc01.gnilink.net... I am recently diagnose with type 2. Even though I am slowly getting used to the idea it still is scary. You see I'm not fighting just diabetes. Like a lot of diabetics I also have high blood pressure. But I also have Tourettes Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, Hypothyroidism, and degenerative arthritis. I would just like to know. How did I get so lucky? My kitchen counter looks like a drug store. You name it, I probably have it. The only good thing is that I don't smoke, drink or do illegal drugs. My wife probably wishes that I would add sex to that list of things I don't do. But that's what I get for marrying a none. Anyway. It's still awfully hard sometimes not to get really down and start feeling sorry for myself. I know that some people might say "Just don't do it." That's a lot easier said than done. My life has been an unbelievable roller coaster of ups and downs. I won't bore you with the details but I'll suffice it to say that it hasn't been a hell of a lot of fun and now I have diabetes. That's just te-r-r-r-r-fic. Thanks for letting me vent. Pit Bull