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BS: Kendall's health

28 Nov 08 - 01:18 PM (#2503650)
Subject: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

Well folks, the other shoe dropped today. I've been feeling woozy and weak for some time now with frequent headaches and lack of energy, so I had some blood work done the other day and they just called me today with the results. Diabetes.
I've been hypoglycemic all my life, and now, this.

What did Shakespere say about the thousand natural shocks that flesh is heir to?


28 Nov 08 - 01:57 PM (#2503680)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: wysiwyg

Oh, but this is GOOD news. It's so easily managed, and you will feel so much better very quickly. Get all the info you can from the docs and dieticians about the theory behind the food program they will prescribe, so you can learn to run it for yourself.

A parishioner is totally off all insulin in favor of a self-researched health diet-- you can take the nutrition end of this to some amazing places and while it is a bit hard to learn at the outset, in the long run you will manage it like second nature, seamlessly. You and Jacqui just have some stuff to learn. But the incentive is that you will soon feel more well than you probably have for years and years.

Congrats on your new lease! :~)

~Susan


28 Nov 08 - 02:23 PM (#2503691)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Amos

I hear ya about those damn shocks, Skipper, but you of all people know when to lower the fenders over the side....



A


28 Nov 08 - 02:24 PM (#2503692)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: gnu

Buck up, lad. You can manage it.


28 Nov 08 - 02:25 PM (#2503694)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: gnu

What stage? Insulin?


28 Nov 08 - 02:30 PM (#2503695)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: fat B****rd

Take good care. All the best from Dunfermline.


28 Nov 08 - 02:50 PM (#2503707)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Genie

Aw, Cap'n, you seem to have way more than your share of bad breaks in the health department.   Not good news. But Susan's right. You listen to her now, y'heah?

Genie


28 Nov 08 - 02:56 PM (#2503713)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: EBarnacle

Type 2, presumably. Can you control it with diet? High Protein, Low Carb is the current diet mode. Just think, lots of Seafood and green veggies. Go minimal on the Maine state veggie, potatoes, minimize breades and get plenty of excersize.


28 Nov 08 - 02:57 PM (#2503714)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Ebbie

Kendall, it's the tough one who gets the hard detail. You can do it- and let us know how it's going, OK?


28 Nov 08 - 02:59 PM (#2503716)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: John MacKenzie

Well now they know what it is, they can treat it. You will feel better soon.

John 'XG'


28 Nov 08 - 03:32 PM (#2503745)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: TRUBRIT

Oh Kendall -- big hugs all round on Sunday....


28 Nov 08 - 03:45 PM (#2503760)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

I have no details yet. The diabetes expert is supposed to contact me to set up an appointment to tell me what to do. Hell, I already have a woman to tell me what to do.

For me, the main food groups consist of: Potatoes, bread, corn on the cob and chocolate bars.


28 Nov 08 - 03:46 PM (#2503761)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: jacqui.c

The doctor hasn't said anything about medication so I guess, at this stage, it's manageable with diet and exercise.

I have a good friend in the UK who was diagnosed a couple of years back and is managing it with diet and exercise. He looks fitter and healthier than he has in years and the diabetes is well under control.

I'm going to be checking out the diabetes website for information and then looking very carefully at our diet.


28 Nov 08 - 03:51 PM (#2503766)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: LilyFestre

Hey Kendall,

    Having received that diagnosis myself, I know how much it can suck. Get all the info you can and really, if you have to have SOMETHING this is one disease you can take an active role in controlling to the point of NOT needing medication of any kind (if you are Type II). I started out needing oral meds and later insulin, 80 units a day, twice a day. Today, after losing a significant amount of weight, I am happy to report that I no longer need any diabetic medication of any kind and I can indulge in sugary stuff if I want to (although that desire seems to have pretty much disappeared for me).
    I know you know that it will take some time to adjust to the medications (if you are required to take meds at all) and for the Dr.'s to adjust the meds to the right level for YOU. If you ever have any questions...even tips about how to inject insulin (we all know that THAT is a scary thing but once you get the hang of it, it's nothing more than a nusance)....PM me anytime. Been there, done that and completely understand.
    My aunt, who has been diabetic for well over 30 years told me this when I found out I was diabetic and was bitchy about it. She said, "You can feel sorry for yourself but really, if you are going to have a major disease, this is the one to have....you can do anything anyone else can do...you just have to monitor the sugar." And you know what? She was right.

Take Care,

Michelle

PS. I'm sure you already do this if you have been hypoglycemic in the past, but carry something sugary with you at all times, especially while they are finding the right medication level for you. Lows can come on fast and hard. I always had a stash in the car, in my desk, in my purse and even a bottle of (non-refridgerated type) juice beside my bed. Waking up in the middle of the night with a low and trying to make it downstairs can be quite the adventure (blurry vision, confusion, sweating, heart racing)...keep stuff handy just for peace of mind....even if it's a pack of sugar in your pocket. Doesn't taste great but it works. :)


28 Nov 08 - 03:57 PM (#2503770)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

When I developed cancer on my vocal cord the Doctor said, "If you are going to have cancer, this is the best kind to have." Now I'm hearing, if I'm going to have a major disease this is the best kind.

J. Golden Kimball once said, "The secret to long life is to get a serious illness and take care of it."


28 Nov 08 - 03:58 PM (#2503771)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: LilyFestre

The thing to keep in mind is that all food, except for protein will break down into sugar in your body...some more than others.

What has worked for me is whole foods and minimal bread/pasta products even if they are whole wheat/grains. You have to keep a close eye on labels because they can be misleading. No sugar added means that the food item has sugar in it naturally and no further sugar has been added. Sometimes things that advertise as sugar free, such as yogurt, aren't really sugar free as milk has naturally occuring sugar in it...if you look at the labels, you'll see that for yourself. If you are really into sweet things I'd suggest looking at agave nectar instead of honey or maple syrup or any of the artifical stuff. Agave nectar (found in natural food stores of natural food sections at the grocery store) is much lower on the glycemic index than honey or maple syrup yet is an incredible sweetener.

Michelle


28 Nov 08 - 04:02 PM (#2503775)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: LilyFestre

Kendall,

   I really wasn't trying to be smart with that. But think about it. You can still move about, play, work, see, hear, remember, blah, blah, blah. Your quote is right on, you just have to monitor your sugar intake. It's a pain but it IS manageable. Anyway, I found that to be a helpful insight from my aunt and it made a difference in my attitude and outlook on having diabetes...something that CAN and DOES kill people who don't take care of themselves. It's up to you about how you want to approach it.

   If you get to thinking later and do have questions, feel free to PM me, ok? I'm thinking all good thoughts for you.

Michelle


28 Nov 08 - 04:11 PM (#2503784)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: katlaughing

WesleyS just got off diabetic meds by losing weight; he mentioned it in another thread. My Rog was just diagnosed a month or two ago. They told him he can absolutely control it with diet and exercise and so far he seems to be doing pretty well. My niece has been Type 1 since she was 5 or 6 years old and has done incredibly well. You can do this, Kendall. You ARE going to feel better, getting it under control. In the meantime...{{{{{{{BIG HUGS}}}}} and lotsaLOVE!

kat


28 Nov 08 - 04:15 PM (#2503787)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: John MacKenzie

Diabetes is chronic, but is it major?
I mean for someone of your age who has got late onset, hopefully type 2, diabetes?
Read what Michelle said, it's not the end of the world Cap'n.

John 'XG'


28 Nov 08 - 04:38 PM (#2503804)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

Oh, big deal. I've had that for three or four years now.

Just watch what you eat (the four food groups are salt, sugar, grease and alcohol), get some exercise (I find running off at the mouth and jumping to conclusions are plenty), and take the pills.

Hell, I had a friend who used to figure how much insulin he needed to inject to cover the Scotch he'd be drinking. Never could drink him under the table. Of course, he WAS a PhD in biochemistry.


28 Nov 08 - 04:51 PM (#2503811)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Tig

And what's more these days life is getting easier all the time.

If you get stuck on insulin (or are a type 1) ask about Carb Counting/DAFNE. It's enabled me to halve my insulin intake and so reduce the risk of putting on loads of weight whilst eating anything I fancy.

What's more I've found the fact I could eat sweet stuff/bread/cakes etc if I want them has taken the 'forbidden factor' away and I don't especially crave them anyway.


28 Nov 08 - 05:05 PM (#2503815)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Micca

Hi Cap'n, I have type II diabetes, what they call NIDDM (Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus) for more than 10 years now and apart from the rise in the eccentricity Index I am almost normal( heh heh) it is managable, one of the pluses of living in the UK ALL my prescription medicines are FREE!!!
so I hope you are not too upset and not letting it get you down, we are all pulling for you!!
Micca


28 Nov 08 - 05:16 PM (#2503818)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Bobert

Good news = Maine lobsters are good fir ya'...

Bad news = Twinkies ain't...

More bad news = Yer prolly gonna die...

More good news = In 30 years...

But the ol' hillbilly, who frequently feels woozy, is sorry ya' got the diabetes, Capt'n... My brother-in-law has had it for the last 20 years an' it ain't got him... He's 73 and still smokes and eats stuff he shouldn't... So here's my suggestion... Milk this fir everything you can... Tell Jacqui that yer too woozy to cut fire wood, 'er pick yer underwear up off the floor, 'er whatevetr it it you don't wanta do and tell her you just need to lie down in front of the TV and watch a good football game... Yeah, that is Dr. Bobert's suggestion...

BTW, don't let her see this post...

B~


28 Nov 08 - 05:22 PM (#2503827)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

I just got an appointment with a diet specialist, Dec. 17th. That seems like a long way off, but apparently it takes 45 minutes for the whole exam.

Anyway, as far as diet and exercise go, I like Raparie's the best. I needed that.

The thing is, I don't have any serious symptoms. Blood pressure averages 120/60, my weight is within 10 pounds of what it was when I was 19, I don't have unusual thirst or sugar cravings.
My only symptoms are: dizziness, lack of energy and weakness.

Does anyone know anything about Stevia? I've been using that since I found out that Splenda is a sugar derivative.


28 Nov 08 - 05:32 PM (#2503832)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: bfdk

Big hug from here, Kendall. Keep going, you'll manage!
All the best,

Bente


28 Nov 08 - 05:41 PM (#2503837)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Art Thieme

Kendall,
This gettin' older is sure a crock. When I was told about my MS, I asked for a second opinion. After the doctor said, "Well, your ugly too" ----he laughed and said, "We found prostate cancer too."

These days, I just don't ask any more...

Be well, sir!!

Art


28 Nov 08 - 05:50 PM (#2503842)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Deckman

Kendall ... Refuse to pay the doctor billl ... the problem will go away! CHEERS, Bob


28 Nov 08 - 05:58 PM (#2503851)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: SINSULL

I see long walks in Seamus' future...
This is nothing compared to the other stuff.
Put away the Reese's and you'll be fine.
By the way - what are the numbers? And one blood test does not make a diabetes diagnosis necessarily.

Damn! I hope Jacqui took out a warranty policy on you, Captain. These repairs are starting to add up.

Love,
Mary


28 Nov 08 - 06:27 PM (#2503864)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: jacqui.c

Bobert! Cellar!

And you,Rapaire. The Capn's eyes lit up when he read your post and then he looked so sad when I explained the truth. Mind you, he's still giggling at your post................


28 Nov 08 - 06:43 PM (#2503873)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: LilyFestre

Sins is right you know. Your blood sugar may be elevated due to an infection or if you are sick (woozy and so forth DOES make your blood sugar rise). So do other prescription and non-presctiption meds. What was your glucose reading? Did they do an A1C blood test to see what your average glucose has been over the past 3 months? They say that 80 to 120 is a *normal* reading. Some folks run slightly higher.

About your trip to the dietician.....they tend to be ultra strict with exchanges and all that. While it's good information and a good start, know that you won't (most likely) need to be THAT strict with yourself.

Do you know anyone who is diabetic and would loan you their glucose testing kit (finger sticks) for a week or so? You could check your own fasting glucose levels each morning to maybe give a bit more peace of mind.

I'm glad Sins brought that up.....maybe it's a glitch, no?

Michelle


28 Nov 08 - 06:59 PM (#2503878)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Lizzie Cornish 1

Hi Kendall,

A fellow chocolate lover here...and a fellow diabetic too.

ALL you have to remember is that a sugar-free wholemeal scone is now FAR sexier than Johnny Depp, and you'll be just fine! ;-)

It's a doddle, honest. There's nothing to worry over, just a bit of learning to do, that's all, and then, you simply carry on, but without the weariness and the dizzyness, that's all. So don't worry about your appointment with the diet chappie..and don't lie there tonight worrying about it all, because honestly, there is nothing to worry about. It's just common sense, that's all.

Just remember, that if you look after yourself, then all will be well. It's nothing to feel frightened about, not when you know what it's all about.

YOU are in control of diabetes, not the other way around, and that's what makes it different to other problems.

And yes, you can still eat sweet things, but in moderation, that's all and know what you're eating...for instance, a Tesco Mince Pie contains 27g of sugar, in EACH pie. (!!!) You get used to looking and learning how much of the crap white stuff is poured into our food these days..and stay right away from all the 'Be Good To Yourself' low fat food, because that is FILLED with sugar.

Watch the alcohol. Learn to love fizzy water. :0) Put some orange in it...Diet Coke now and then..Mmmmmmm...love those chemicals! Water your orange juice down, half and half....Shandy with diet lemonade, instead of beer or wine..or again, water the wine down, have a Spritzer..there's ways round everything. I'm lucky, I hate the taste of aloohol, so that wasn't a problem for me..but there were some at my Diet Clinic who were on the floor practically, wailing that they'd never be able to drink again....Hell, I was deliriously happy, because I'd spotted that you could still eat doughnuts, so to hell with the alcohol. A girl has to have some vices! LOL

Look after yourself and there'll be no problems.

And truly, do NOT worry.

Stay healthy and happy.

Lizzie x


28 Nov 08 - 07:38 PM (#2503900)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Bobert

Bad, Kendall, bad...

I told you not to let Jacqui read my post an' now I'm in trouble, too...

Geeze, I was jus' tryin' to help!!!

B~


28 Nov 08 - 07:51 PM (#2503904)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Severn

I became diabetic this past year after my blood sugar spiked after my last chemo treatment (If the washin' don't get you then the rinsin' will!), and I have permanent diabetes now and am managing it quite well with a low carb diet and insulin. I DO have a neuropathy, numbness in the extremities, i.e. hands and feet, for which I take Neurotin/Gabopentin.

So I'm off sweets and alchohol and staying away from bad carbs, corn potatoes, rice and pasta in large portions, but I'm dealing with it. My weight loss has stalled at 23-25 pounds, but I look and feel much better. It's far from the end of the world. Talk to me about it more as you find out more of your individual condition.

Good luck with handling your own conditions.


28 Nov 08 - 07:53 PM (#2503907)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

Look, all the dietician will do is tell you to eat healthy meals. Lobster, crab, oysters, salmon, cod, rum -- all that Maine stuff -- is fine, even GOOD FOR YOU. Just don't overdo it. Cut back on the carbohydrates and fats, eat more protein and veggies.

Here is what I know about stevia:

1. It's expensive, even in bulk.
2. My brother grew some this past summer and it took over the fence in the back yard. He has no idea what to do now.

I used Splenda; the dietician said it was okay. Again, you don't use a lot of it or anything.

You remember them old Greek fellas who used to hand about the docks in Machiasport? Sam Aristotle and Zeb Playdo? Well one of them was insulin-resistant diabetic (which is probably what you are) and when he got his eating orders he just sighed and said he was told, "Mahdahration. In all things mahdahration."

And just what IS your A1C? Mine was 5.7, 7.0 is the upper limit. Find out and let us know so we can take you apart help you.


28 Nov 08 - 07:56 PM (#2503912)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

Lizzie, you do make a lot of sense.

The original test said my sugar was 118. I don't know what the one they did yesterday said.

I'm not a big drinker of either alcohol or any kind of soft drink.
However, I could live on mashed potatoes and fresh bread.


28 Nov 08 - 07:57 PM (#2503914)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: catspaw49

Well hell..........I opened up this thread expecting some sinisster and frightening new diseaese to have laid you low.

Diabetes?

Geeziz man........You'd be probably worse off with the clap! I mean they can cure the clap quite easily nowadays but if you had the clap Jacqui would kill you. So diabetes is no big deal!

Besides, look at all the company you have around here and how much advice you already got on this thread. Cheer up or Jacqui will beat the livin' hell out of you. I'll call her again and make sure she does!

Spaw


28 Nov 08 - 08:07 PM (#2503918)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Escapee

Sorry to hear your news. It turned out to be a blessing for me, though. It made me pay attention to food and drink, and take care of myself. Wishing you a similarly silver lining.
SKP


28 Nov 08 - 08:19 PM (#2503922)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

118? 118?? Hell, my blood sugar's higher than that when I get up in the morning! Yesterday it was 156!! (after dinner).

How many times has your blood sugar been taken and by whom? Was that fasting or what? It all makes a difference!

Get an A1C done and then start moaning.

118. Sheesh.

(The average range most doctors use is 90 to 110, fasting. Really, get an A1C done -- it gives you an average for the last three months.)


28 Nov 08 - 09:33 PM (#2503946)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: ranger1

Lookee Cap, if you needed more attention from us female types, all you had to do was ask. No need to go getting a medical condition. Geez!

Seriously, though, my gramma got diagnosed with diabetes last year and she's doing just fine. So no worries, 'kay?


28 Nov 08 - 10:04 PM (#2503954)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Sandra in Sydney

A few years back I was diagnosed as pre-diabetic - changing eating habits & slowly losing weight with the guidance of a dietician meant I could stop taking the tablets after a couple of tyears.

My favourite food group is deep fried yumminess - I'm not a sweet tooth tho I was 20 years ago when I was told my tiredness & lack of concentration was due to hyperglycemia (spelling?) & I had been trying to keep awake by eating sweet stuff the way chain smokers consume tobacco. I had no trouble getting off the sweeties when I saw just what I could eat (glass, or in this case, plate, half full not half empty.) Tho I did tend to over-consume the savoury stuff!

Which is why I eventually got to 89kg (2.2 pounds per kg for those who need to convert) & pre-diabetic. 15 kg later I still eat inappropriately at times, but I can live comfortably with the foods that are good for me.

Now I have my thyroid specialist saying cutting my throat to remove my badly-behaved thyroid is a possibility! And if it is cancerous, it's the best (sounds familiar?) cancer to have cos it can all be removed & I just pop a tablet daily ... So I really must call her to get the latest biopsy result.   

sandra


28 Nov 08 - 10:07 PM (#2503956)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Beer

This is one disease that a cure will be found. If it is a drug I wish I could get shares. But then again it may be through some other research.
Good luck Kendall were all on your side.
Adrien


29 Nov 08 - 01:27 AM (#2504007)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Stilly River Sage

Kendall,

Plant a garden. Make sure you put a good mix of plants in, greens like chard or spinach, squash, carrots, some potatoes are okay, eggplant (I had a bumper crop this year), tomatoes, broccoli. Etc.

When you go to the work to plant the garden, you'll find it entertaining. And get some exercise working on it. And as plants grow, you'll find they look interesting, even tasty. Eat them.

For me, the main food groups consist of: Potatoes, bread, corn on the cob and chocolate bars.

Not any more. And if you grow more of your own food, you'll see why having (for example) a pizza with a topping of sliced green peppers, onions, and maybe a meat added to it is such a treat. You're eating the food from your garden, and you're doing yourself a favor at the same time.

Take care, you're a great voice here at Mudcat and the CDs of yours that I have are a great pleasure to listen to. Now get yourself connected to the world you're living in, and you'll do your health a favor.

Bon Appetite!

SRS


29 Nov 08 - 06:36 AM (#2504112)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: freda underhill

Kendall and Jacqui

very sorry to hear the latest. but like others v glad its not a resurgence of something uglier.

Three years ago, after eating our way round the cake shops of Vienna (with my daughter), I returned to Sydney and a type 2 diagnosis. I figure it took me years of addiction to sugar to get there. Yes, I had to go to a dietician who reprogrammed and brainwashed me in several sessions.

I don't eat pasta anymore, get low GI bread (full of seeds) and eat much more veg & protein (tofu, nuts, beans)and less carbs. 10 kg lighter and still enjoy life. Walking - I now go on long walks - regulalrly - daily, via thye harbour, via bookshops and via pretty streets to check out the gardens. walking walks everything off - the weight, the sugar, and burns off tension.

join the club kendall, there are a few of us here and we're the lucky ones. the real danger is for anyone who hasn't been diagnosed.

good luck with it all - & btw I've found a brand of dark choclate that doesn't have sugar in it. it's delicious.

hugs to you both

freda


29 Nov 08 - 06:42 AM (#2504116)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Keith A of Hertford

Bad luck you two.
Keep fighting, life is good.
See you soon,
keith and mary.


29 Nov 08 - 10:11 PM (#2504145)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Nancy King

Well, Jeez, Kendall -- you didn't have enough going on already? You had to go out and get ANOTHER ailment? Boy, some people are never satisfied...

Anyhow, presumably the previous posters have by now convinced you that this is not the end of the world. Just a pain in the ass. If they put you on medication it will probably take a while to get the dosage stabilized, and that's a drag, since as LilyFestre notes above, lows can come on fast and strong. Just have something with you all the time to counteract it, and you'll be OK.

The only other help I can offer is to tell you that the cookbooks published by the American Diabetes Association/American Dietetic Association are VERY good. Some years ago my ex was diagnosed with type II, and I went and bought three of their cookbooks. They have some really great recipes (several of which I still use) and they include all the exchanges, etc. Remember those crabcakes we had when you came to see us in Sebago this summer? Those came from a diabetes cookbook (though I think the portions might have been a bit smaller...) I gave the books away a couple of years ago to another friend, or I'd send 'em right off to you, but I'm willing to bet your local library has them. The dietician will give you lots of good advice, no doubt, but you and Jacqui will have to figure out what works best for YOU, and those cookbooks could help.

Hang in there, Darlin' -- we're all behind you!

Love to both of you,

Nancy


29 Nov 08 - 10:23 PM (#2504151)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Maryrrf

That's unpleasant news Kendall but fortunately it can be dealt with. I second the suggestion of planting a garden. I planned out and planted my first garden this year and it has afforded me so much enjoyment, as SRS said, there's the exercise in the outdoors, the fun of picking out the seeds and plantlings, the actual digging in the dirt, and then watching the garden grow. Vegetables (especially salads) taste so wonderful when they are fresh - as in walk out the the garden, pick, wash, prepare as desired and eat. You might find you enjoy vegetables more when you grow your own.


29 Nov 08 - 10:40 PM (#2504156)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: catspaw49

See? More and more testimonials!.....It really IS BETTER than the clap!

Spaw


30 Nov 08 - 10:31 AM (#2504201)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

Yeah, Spaw's right.

It's also better than leprosy, smallpox, lues, anthrax, tetanus, typhoid, typhus, whooping cough, shingles, schistosomiosis, malaria, Chagras Fever, Ebola, Jakob-Crutchfield disease, cholera, gangrene, singing off-key, hemorrhagic fever, trench foot, diarrhea, MRSA, venereal termites, pinworms, toothache, poison ivy, necrotizing fasciitis, testicular elephantiasis, cirrhosis, or yaws.

It's your bodies way of telling you to shape up and do what you should have been doing all along instead of having a good time.

What's your A1C? You're not really a Type II unless you've got an A1C.


30 Nov 08 - 06:10 PM (#2504320)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: GUEST

Hi, Cap'n; my wife has been "type one", which means a much heavier-duty control regime, and total dependence on insulin, for over 50 years; she has no real health problems. You won't have to add up every damn carbohydrate you ingest like she does. Much better a diagnosis of diabetes than undiagnosed diabetes.
As Repaire implied, I'm a little surprised if you were given that diagnosis on the basis of one glucose reading of 118. My wife's suggested goal range is 120 to 150, and I can't imagine any type one not slipping out of either end of that range some; she has survived a lot more fluctuation than that for most of her life. Yes, people find the diagnosis disheartening; but this isn't diddly to what you have hung in there through.
                                     Dean.


30 Nov 08 - 06:16 PM (#2504325)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: open mike

good luck with this...just anothr test....
you will pass with flying colors.
what does that mean flying colors? red? yellow? blue?
what colors do you fly?!


30 Nov 08 - 06:54 PM (#2504358)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

I'm kinda partial to the Jolly Roger and a red pennant myself. Your colors may vary.

Cap'n, my friend Pat is Type 1. Her blood glucose has varied from 28 (just a tad low) to 272 (just a tad high) in the years I've known her. Normally she's at about 130 or so. She rides dressage, mucks out the barn, works full time, quilts, and has recently returned from trips to both South Korea and Hawaii.

Now if mere women can do the hard stuff, you can too. But get an A1C, would ya?


30 Nov 08 - 06:55 PM (#2504360)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Hawker

Awww Birthday buddie! This is just a small hurdle on the racetrack of life, shouldn't be a problem! Just take it in your stride and run with it, I can see you on the medal tables of life!
Keep smiling, hugs, Lucy


30 Nov 08 - 07:40 PM (#2504405)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Barry Finn

Geeze Kendall, if it weren't for bad luck you'd have no luck at all. Don't feel to bad, if it's any comfort & it probably isn't, I just got it too, bout 6 months ago, it ain't the worst thin in life. If we can both figure out who's responsible for this Diabetes thing that's going about maybe we can thrash 'em & get 'em to take it all back.
Well if it's helpful, I don't understand it much at all, yet, I never had to think about what I ate nor about moving about to get to stay healthy. The classes offer & paid for through medicare (& other insurances) are very informing & some gyms & spa's are covered too. Exercise & diet, the 2 best things you can do, it sucks but it's the best. O shit, booze isn't gonna help, sorry but hey, that may keep you from needing a liver transplant, could be worst, you've had 2 shoes drop already, don't wanna see the anvil fall one one of those unsod feets of yours, God does that hurt. I'm looking for a good Diabetes cookbook at the moment, if I find one that fits the bill I'll past along what it's called.

I've been telling Mary about the benifts of Lobster (see her thread about the infection from hell, she thinks she's got something to whine about?) don't you go following my advise to her, course being a downeaster yourself you'd know better anyway, lobster doesn't work for everything.
Good luck with this new round, the hits just keep on coming don't they? That's what keeps us going though.

Barry


30 Nov 08 - 07:50 PM (#2504410)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: GUEST,B12 enthusiast

Also have your B12 checked. Those symptoms can be B12 deficiency symptoms. Drink more water. Dehydration makes you dizzy and sleepy.


30 Nov 08 - 09:11 PM (#2504471)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Dan Schatz

I've said it elsewhere, Kendall, but I'm awfully sorry to hear about the diagnosis - though it's a comfort to know your headaches and lethargy were something you can put a name to, and do something about.

Besides, our Kendall's no stranger to exercise!

Dan


30 Nov 08 - 09:14 PM (#2504473)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

Well, it'll never get well if he keeps picking it.


30 Nov 08 - 09:40 PM (#2504483)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Barry Finn

Dan, Rap, don't make him laugh.

Barry


30 Nov 08 - 10:04 PM (#2504498)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

Thanks to all of you. Nancy, your crab cakes were delicious!

I won't know exactly what I have until I meet with the specialist on 12/17. This was not diagnosed on the basis of one blood test. The first one was 118, and I don't know what the second one was. All I know is they called to say I was diabetic after the second test.

Seems like if it was serious they would have dragged me back sooner than two weeks plus.


30 Nov 08 - 10:15 PM (#2504505)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: catspaw49

Ya' never know Kendall. Maybe they've heard about you from other Docs. Maybe they already have a heavy workload and are figuring you might crap out on them before they have to take you on as a patient. Man, this could be it! See, start worrying about it and you'll blow a headpipe instead.

Just try and relax. Here's a thought! Why not survey all your neighbors and see which ones have diabetes and which ones have had the clap?

Spaw


30 Nov 08 - 10:15 PM (#2504507)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

Spaw, I've never had the clap and I don't want it again either.


30 Nov 08 - 10:18 PM (#2504508)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

If you do take such a survey I'd appreciate it if you'd also ask which ones have leprosy and if so what body parts have recently fallen off. It's not so much that I really care but I think you'd find their reactions interesting.


30 Nov 08 - 10:19 PM (#2504509)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

(Footnote: I am very aware of Hansen's Disease and what accompanies it.)


01 Dec 08 - 01:53 AM (#2504579)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Barry Finn

Kendall, 118 is good, very good. I was hovering around 350 for awhile & they were hoping I could get it down with pills but it didn't happen, I'd still like to see numbers in the low hundreds. You may be able to control this with just diet & exercise, if not maybe with some pills to get it down.
They told me I was very lucky with the 1st liver transplant cause us liver guys are very likely to become diabetic, then the 2nd shoe dropped & the anvil came after that. It might be that you just gotta quit playing banjo though, you know God loves fiddlers but the rest can go to the devil

Good luck with your other numbers, may they be low

Barry


01 Dec 08 - 04:17 AM (#2504644)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Backwoodsman

Kendall, if it's Type 2 it's a nuisance but it's reasonably easy to live with. Good diet - plenty of pasta, rice, fresh vegetables, easy on the cookies, puds and ice-cream, avoid saturated fats, get plenty of exercise, be aware of your body and what it's saying to you (how could you be anything else after your experiences of the past few years?). And look after your feet and eyes - very important.

I was diagnosed a year ago - I'm fitter now than I've been at any time in the past 25 years, and my cholesterol count is 2. Seems like every cloud has a silver lining! :-)


01 Dec 08 - 09:02 AM (#2504834)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

I've done considerable research and I've come to the conclusion that eating is fatal. Every person who has died had eaten recently.


01 Dec 08 - 09:07 AM (#2504843)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

And stick to rum, whiskey, whisky, vodka, gin, and stuff like those. Everybody who has died has also drunk water, and THAT stuff rusts out your pipes -- just look what it does to good steel and then think of what it's doing to you.


01 Dec 08 - 10:33 AM (#2504924)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: catspaw49

Ya' know Kendall, that's a good point. I'd suggest cutting off all water as well. Keep in mind that fish fuck in water. Who wants to drink that?

Spaw


01 Dec 08 - 10:45 AM (#2504940)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Midchuck

Keep in mind that fish fuck in water. Who wants to drink that?

Actually, they don't. The Maw fish lays eggs, and Paw fish comes along and fertilizes them after they're laid. Where do you think the expression, "Poor Fish" came from?

Peter.


01 Dec 08 - 10:47 AM (#2504942)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: jacqui.c

That's even worse Peter - who wants to drink the water that Paw fish has.............


01 Dec 08 - 11:53 AM (#2504994)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

Thats it. I don't drink any water that didn't come from our well.


01 Dec 08 - 12:01 PM (#2504998)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: katlaughing

But didn't eddiecoochacatchacan or whoseit fall into the well hole? And, ya don't wanna know what he did in the water!


01 Dec 08 - 12:10 PM (#2505005)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Liz the Squeak

Just look up Lumley Kettlewell... or listen to the Nick Dow song about him...

LTS


01 Dec 08 - 12:57 PM (#2505040)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Lizzie Cornish 1

I'll let you into a little 'diabetic' secret, Kendall, that not many people know about... ;0)

10 minutes before this scene was filmed, the actress had been given a sugar-free wholemeal scone.

See what the right diet can do for you! :0)

And as you can see, a few minutes later, EVERYONE wanted one.

Being diabetic is sometimes *more* than fun. ( LOL )

So, eat loads of orgasmic fruit, vegetables and scones and you'll be just fine.


01 Dec 08 - 12:59 PM (#2505041)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: MAG

Bummer, Kendall. It IS, as everyone has said, manageable.

You have probably learned this all already but here goes:

The main thing in DII is to keep your blood suger under control. Sticky blood clogs and damages your capillaries which is what caused the eye, kidney, and foot failure. You really don't want to go there.

It takes time and patience (you Down Easter, you) to figure out what YOU need to do to keep the blood glucose down; it's a very individual thing.

Your educator will undoubtedly give you a test kit and teach you how to use it; you will be testing before and after meals and it should be several times a day, a couple days a week. Don't let your insurance stint you on the test strips. This lets you know which food make you go high..

Yhey don't necessarily tell you that exercise is necessary because it lowers the insulin resistance, which iswhy sugar stays in your blood instead of going into your cells, which may scream to your body to eat, because they are not getting any. This is why a lot of us put on weight PD (post diabetes).

If you need to do shots to keep your sugar in range, do it. The theory now is to give shots sooner rather than waiting, because it gets your sugar under control and saves wear and tear on the pancreas. I'm on lantus and byetta.

Good luck; it can be a bitch but it's worth the trouble to do it all right.


01 Dec 08 - 02:42 PM (#2505156)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: GUEST,Dan sans cookie

Really, Kendall? Your well? Just how close to the cesspool is that well?

Dan, who listens to Kendall's records


01 Dec 08 - 08:29 PM (#2505447)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

Lizzie, did you really mean "orgasmic" fruits? I could live with that.


02 Dec 08 - 12:24 AM (#2505535)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Barry Finn

No you can't Kendall, I'm an orgasmic fruit, and you ain't living with me!

Lizzie dear, I've been looking for sugar-free wholemeal scones, where did you find them & can I get some too.

Barry the vegetable

"Call any vegetable, call it by name
Call one today, when you get off the train
Call any vegetable and the chances are good
That the vegetable will respond to you"
(Frank Zappa)


02 Dec 08 - 01:20 AM (#2505548)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: catspaw49

Wow Barry.........That the vegetable will RESPOND to you! Oh no! Can you see them responding? The pumpkin is breathing hard...h-h-h-h
h-h-h-H-H-H-H-H-H-H - H - HHHHHHHHHHHH....................

Dunno' Barry.........I mean, like, uh, who you jivin' with that cosmic debris?

Spaw


02 Dec 08 - 02:36 AM (#2505566)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Matt_R

I'm glad you're still alive, old man.


02 Dec 08 - 08:30 AM (#2505761)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

Hey Kid, where you been?


02 Dec 08 - 11:35 AM (#2505923)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

The word came down from the Witch doctor today. Type 2


02 Dec 08 - 11:52 AM (#2505943)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: SINSULL

OOOO EEEE OOO AH AH TING TANG WALLA WALLA BING BANG!


That's good news Kendall. Easily controlled with diet and exercise or a pill - Metaformin is the drug of choice.


02 Dec 08 - 12:07 PM (#2505963)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

Stick yer fingers twice a day, do-da, do-da,
Take them pills and don't say "Nay", oh dee do dah day.
Gassy veggies all night,
Jumping Jacks all day,
Metformin is the pill of choice,
All the live-long day.


02 Dec 08 - 12:18 PM (#2505980)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: GUEST,Kim C no cookie

"I've done considerable research and I've come to the conclusion that eating is fatal. Every person who has died had eaten recently."

That is just about the funniest thing I've heard all day! I know you have people around who will take good care of you. No worries. :-)


02 Dec 08 - 01:04 PM (#2506027)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

Thanks Kim. I'm glad I could make your day. :-)

I call that illogical logic. Like those people who insist that smoking weed will make you want hard drugs. Their logic is, everyone who does hard drugs started on weed. That is probably true, but if you want to go back far enough, every drug addict started on milk.

As they say, all Poodles are dogs, but all dogs are not Poodles.


02 Dec 08 - 06:23 PM (#2506315)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: gnu

Mother's milk leads to.... and I could never understand the next word George Carlin said on that album... but, I got the drift. What the heck was the name of that album.... Toledo Window Box?

I need a glass of milk.


02 Dec 08 - 06:26 PM (#2506319)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

I never drank milk. Raw whiskey, from the day I was born.

It's made me what I am today.


02 Dec 08 - 07:56 PM (#2506400)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

My first wife drove me to drink. I never did thank her.


03 Dec 08 - 11:15 AM (#2506906)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Becca72

Your first wife drove a lot of us to drink....


03 Dec 08 - 11:57 AM (#2506943)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

But we were all in good company.


03 Dec 08 - 03:54 PM (#2507102)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Wesley S

Hmmm. Only 118? Have you had any readings higher than that? The two tests I had when I found out I was diabetic were 380 and 420. Why I didn't stroke out I'll never know. From what I've been told anything between 100 and 150 is in the normal range.


03 Dec 08 - 04:06 PM (#2507113)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Becca72

I think it really depends on who you talk to, Wesley. My doctor said anything 125 or higher or a H A1C of 6.5 or higher means you are diabetic. My highest reading last year was 123 which labeled me as 'pre diabetic' though it has improved greatly since then. Those numbers are all while fasting, of course.


03 Dec 08 - 04:17 PM (#2507122)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

Well, Becca, there's a genetic component to Type II diabetes.

Blame Kendall.


03 Dec 08 - 05:04 PM (#2507146)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Becca72

Lucky me, I get it from both sides.


03 Dec 08 - 07:10 PM (#2507234)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Matt_R

I'm still around once and a while. And in a few hours, I will be a kid no longer. I'm turning 30 :(


03 Dec 08 - 08:15 PM (#2507269)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Bobert

Not too much to add other than the ex teachin' me to drink... I jus' wanta get this thing to...

...a hunnert...

B~


03 Dec 08 - 08:55 PM (#2507285)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

Oh heck, Becca. Just blame Kendall. He's tough, he can take it.


03 Dec 08 - 09:03 PM (#2507291)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Bobert

He's married to jacqui, rap, so sayin' that he is tough is a given... Well, thinkin' 'bout it I think they have a two way street goin' on there...

But nevermind that two way street stuff... Let's get this one to a hunnert tonight, folks an' I'z 'bout ready to give this day up so ya'll gonna have to pitch in an' get 'er done...

B~


03 Dec 08 - 09:33 PM (#2507304)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

Ya know, Bobert, anybody that would put up with Becca is probably tougher'n they should be.


03 Dec 08 - 09:34 PM (#2507305)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: SINSULL

100


03 Dec 08 - 09:48 PM (#2507314)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

Now Bobert can go to bed.


03 Dec 08 - 10:30 PM (#2507339)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: MAG

Metformin gave me the runs like I couldn't believe. The doc kept saying it would eventually settle down, but after 18 months I quit it.

I'm not sure it might work from speeding food out of your system.


03 Dec 08 - 10:40 PM (#2507341)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: dick greenhaus

Kendall-
I find it hard to believe that a blood sugar reading of 118 would give rise to fatigue or dizziness; I had the symptoms, and they were a result of anemia, although I also have type II diabetes. Have you had a complete blood workup?

Remember, my people had diabetes while yours were still painting themselves blue. I know a little whereof I speak


03 Dec 08 - 11:23 PM (#2507358)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

In 1974?


04 Dec 08 - 08:35 AM (#2507560)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: kendall

Maine is always a few years behind in the fad dept.

Actually, my ancestors originated in Scandinavia, invaded Normandy, then in 1066 invaded England, so I don't think they used woad.


04 Dec 08 - 08:45 AM (#2507567)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: jacqui.c

Bobert! You have a permanent place in the cellar now - under the concrete!


04 Dec 08 - 10:17 AM (#2507643)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Becca72

"Ya know, Bobert, anybody that would put up with Becca is probably tougher'n they should be"

Rap,
who do you think MADE me this way?


04 Dec 08 - 10:58 AM (#2507677)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

I dunno. The Grinch? Santa Claws? The Toot Fairy?


04 Dec 08 - 12:11 PM (#2507732)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Midchuck

Rap, stop fighting it. She got you. Roll over and play dead.

P.


04 Dec 08 - 12:15 PM (#2507737)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: jacqui.c

Trust me Rap - you can't win this one.


05 Dec 08 - 09:09 AM (#2508576)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Zen

I was diagnosed with type II diabetes too this year.

Lots of good advice on this thread. I am not on medications at the moment and am attempting to lower and control my blood sugar through diet and exercise. The key is a moderate and balanced diet, portion control, avoiding added sugar in things (here in the UK pretty well everything is labelled and the damn stuff is added to pretty well every type of processed food), plenty of fruit (fruit sugar, fructose, is non-insulin dependent) and green vegetables, plenty of protein, oily fish for a couple of main meals is very good and, most of all, plenty of exercise.

Type II diabetes is serious but it is also controllable. The people who do have major problems are mostly the ones that can't get on top of the new regime. Dietetic advice is good but eat sensibly, moderately and in a balanced way and you're most of the way there.

Prolonged stress also raises cortisol and blood sugar levels so avoid that... music is good! (I have a very high stress job which doesn't help in that regards)

Zen


05 Dec 08 - 12:15 PM (#2508723)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: GUEST,MAG at work

I forgot to mention: watch out for the sorbitol (fake sugar) in candy -- it can give you a bellyache if you eat too much.


05 Dec 08 - 01:04 PM (#2508785)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

DON'T assume that fructose, lactose, corn syrup, maple syrup, sucrose, or anything else like that is different than plain old glucose-based sugar (roughly C6H22O11). The body converts all of them into -- GLUCOSE! And it stores the stuff as glycocides in your liver, which releases them when the body thinks it needs the energy stored in them. Normally this is handled by insulin, but if your Insulin Works (a small factory located on the sunny Isles of Langerhans) has messed up its productivity then you have some type of diabetes. Type II means that the workers have screwed up production, but you can't complain to the management or the Union so you have to bring in outside help, like diet or exercise or Metformin.

This is different from Type I, where the Union has simply gone on a walk-out strike and you have to use scabs (called injectable insulin).


05 Dec 08 - 06:00 PM (#2509035)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Mrrzy

Sorry to hear, but it's treatable, yes?


05 Dec 08 - 08:24 PM (#2509098)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Zen

The metabolism of different sugars is a rather more complicated affair.

Fructose is metabolized through a different pathway and set of enzymes than those of glucose, almost entirely in the liver, to fatty acids and triglycerides (not to glucose) and is not dependent on insulin.

Excessive fructose in the body has its own set of serious problems but they are different to those of elevated glucose. The fructose present in ordinary helpings of fruit is not a problem but excessive consumption of fructose is certainly harmful. Small quantities of fructose can actually have a positive effect in overall carbohydrate metabolism.

Zen


06 Dec 08 - 04:30 AM (#2509208)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Backwoodsman

We have a great organisation here - Diabetes UK - with a useful website. I've learned more about my diabetes from Diabetes UK than I have from my doctor/practice nurse. It's a charitable organisation, and I'd encourage all UK diabetics to subscribe and/or donate.

There are also many, many local support groups who hold regular meetings and can give informed advice if it's required.


06 Dec 08 - 05:32 AM (#2509228)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: GUEST,Zen

Agreed Backwoodsman, Diabetes UK is an brilliant organisation. I've just received a couple of excellent recipe books from them through the post... one with Christmas recipes suitable for diabetics.

Zen


06 Dec 08 - 11:10 AM (#2509341)
Subject: RE: BS: Kendall's health
From: Rapparee

Just what you need -- elevated triglycerides!