Diabetes

[purpose]

My most fave person in the whole world has just been diagnosed with diabetes. I know nothing about it and neither does he (yet).

I am going to google it and read up, but would REALLY appreciate any first-hand accounts of anyone here who is diabetic/ knows someone with it.

Thanks.

[devilwoman]

i have type 2 diabetes and it is controlled bytablets(metformin) and sensible diet, i have to try and keep my blood sugar levels to 6 or below. type 1 is different and i believe someone with that has to have insulin injections which must be pretty awfull, i'd be scared to inject myself but i suppose if you have to you would get used to it.

[CLOWN TICKLE]

I have type 2 and it is controlled by diet and avandamet which is a type of metformin, follow the wheel of life diet, dont buy diabetic foods from chemists unless doctor says so, check eyes annually and feet, have had it ten years and have had no probs with it, happy to answer any questions, email is [email protected]

[OBonio]

My brother was diagnosed with diabetes when he was 2 years old. He's been on insulin injections ever since (over 30,000 I think at the last count). At least the syringes aren't as big as they used to be!

It can be very scary. I remember sharing a room with him and him going into a hypo (hypoglycaemia.. where his blood sugars went too low). He used to have a fit and mum and dad would rush in and throw a sugar cube down his throat.

I'll just tell you what he keeps telling me... the specialist diabetic nurses are the mutt's nuts. Better than the doctors! Make sure you get the name and number of one at your local hospital.

[armyboy]

I have type 2Diabetes ,On metformin 3time daily Just need to be sensible with diet . What you have been told by other posters is correct. A good site to watch is www.netdoctor.co.uk which has a diabetic forum and is helpful

[bobinbelgium]

I was diagnosed with diabetes in September 2004 at age 32 and it was a completely life changing experience. The first thing iI would advise is not to panic. With proper diet and regular visits to the doctor your friend will be ok. It will however take them a while to get used to the regime. Monitoring blood sugar levels, getting the correct dosage of insulin,eating at regular times etc,etc. It has taken me all this time to do it but well worth it as I am still alive :). Your friend will undoubtably need your support and understanding but they could do without preaching ( not to say you would do that) as this can be a very emotional time for your friend and even the sligtest criticism can be seen as an insult.Well,thats how I felt anyway. The main thing to do for your friend and for your sel is get as much information as you can.Your GP can give you many leafletts and bookletts on the subjust but the British Diabetes Association can help as well .They all have it and know far more than I do. The main thing is not to worry just be there for your friend as mine were for me and that in itself will be a big help. Lastly Im here if you need anyhelp. My email is [email protected] and Ill be glad to assist anyway I can even if your mate just wants a good cry. good luck

[OBonio]

Diabetes UK is the official UK charity :

http://www.diabetes.org.uk/home.htm

[purpose]

Blimey, what a wonderful response!

Thankyou all so much. I shall take all advice and visit specified sites.

My 'friend' actually lives 100s of miles away so i guess i am worrying about him because i can't see him every day to make sure he is ok!

Thankyou all. Very much appreciated :0)