Endo Visit

For the most part, I can pretend I don't have diabetes---even though it's a 24/7 disease. What I mean is, my life with diabetes is normal---low blood sugars, high blood sugars, carb counting, exercising, calling the insurance company, changing my pump set, etc.---these are everyday occurrences/activities for me.

Then comes my four month endo appointment, and there's no forgetting. I stroll in, ready to face my truth. Well, sort of ready.

I hand the jovial receptionist my insurance card and co-pay. I sign forms, delight in polite conversation, and then settle into a floral-patterned chair and wait to hear my name. I'm called back to a hallway where I'm weighed. I usually hold my breath (though thinking about it, won't that add weight?). Then I'm escorted back to a patient room where my blood pressure, pulse, and blood sugar are checked, I'm asked questions about medications and symptoms, and then the door closes. And I breathe a moment, collect my thoughts, and wonder what's next. Good or bad, the truth is the truth.

The doctor strolls in, asks me some questions, comments on my new modeling career (haha---a promotional campaign for the local hospital where I'm the new face of diabetes), and then proceeds to read my labs. Gulp.

I've been really tired lately, and my first question was, is my iron or vitamin D level low? The answer to both was no. I do know some people with diabetes (and not) have a hard time with the summer heat. Additionally, I don't drink as much water as I should (I'm busy!---excuse, excuse). And I'm on summer break from teaching, so my days are rather relaxed and unstructured.

My second question, which is really my always-on-my-mind question, is about my a1c. Drum roll....

7.5

My doctor was pleased but said we could up my Symlin to help bring that number down.

I expressed my fear and hate of hypoglycemia. My doc was very supportive, explaining how hypoglycemia has many health risks, just like hyperglycemia.

I remarked that I hear of diabetics with 6 point something a1c numbers, and how it's frustrating for me. He reminded me that type I is much harder to control than type 2. I'm understanding that a lower a1c isn't always better. Sigh of relief.

I'm pleased that I've done so well with my disease, but I have this constant sense of my need to improve.

So it continues...