[chaplainscott]

At 56 I was shocked to have a sudden onset diagnosis of T1 just last week. I was symptomatic for a few weeks and just assumed it would turn out to be T2, like my wife has. It was a bit unnerving to go to the doc for a diet and oral med plan, only to leave with a bag full of needles and a stick pen! I went in with BG ranging from the high 300s to over 500 and an A1C of 9.2 (it was 5.6 in October). I'm waiting for the results of some other blood tests, but have started a daily insulin regimen and a fairly strict diet (self-imposed). Unfortunately my BG levels are about the same as a week ago, and I have two more weeks before my follow-up visit at the doc's. So, still learning, beginning the process, looking forward to better management. Thanks for being there!

[dano]

Welcome to the Forum!

Read through the first three threads in the Type 2 Section, when you get a chance, if you have not already done so. Although these threads are geared towards T2, they are pretty much for any one with diabetes and will most-likely help you a lot. Self education is one of the keys to successful management of your diabetes, along with a healthy sensible diet and exercise. Basically, diabetes requires a life-style change for the better.

Read and learn all that you can on your condition. Learn to count carbs and to bolus for the food eaten with the blood glucose level prior to the meal. This is much better than the sliding scale that many doctors prescribe. Good luck with your control and management.

[type1rachelle]

welcome! this is why it's no longer called "juvenile diabetes" since it is known to affect people of ALL ages. it wasn't too long ago that your diagnosis (T1 or T2) was almost completely dependent on your age.

I'm glad you were diagnosed without going into diabetic ketoacidosis - sounds like you and your Dr caught it in time.

My advice? I know it's depressing, but you and T1 are in it for the long haul. Try not to get so caught up on perfect numbers in the beginning - there's a very real condition called "diabetes burnout" and you want to create habits that will stick so go slow - you will most likely not get complications from a few high A1cs, they're just numbers and nobody is perfect.

It's great that your wife is T2 so you guys will both strive to eat healthier meals, and she can tell you first hand her experiences with it. Just keep in mind, however, that you're on insulin so you'll naturally experience more lows eventually as you gain tighter control. Glucose tablets are your friend

Familiarize yourself with terms such as "Dawn Phenomenon" "Somogyi Effect" and "Honeymoon Period" as it relates to T1... educate yourself as much as possible and get out there and meet other T1s so you don't feel so isolated. Check out some local JDRF groups perhaps?

At the end of the day, if you care for yourself, it's not a death sentence, it's just a pain in the @ss. And in reality, you might even become a little bit thankful by how in tune with your body you'll become.

welcome to the tribe!