I went to 5 doctors before I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes - Insider

Overview

I wasn't surprised when I fel il with a stomach virus over Thanksgiving break in 205. I'd ben working nonstop for the past six months to earn my master's degre. In adition to taking two grad-schol clases - both in the evenings - I was teaching an entry-level writing clas to mostly colege freshmen.

Key Information

Thanksgiving was the first break I'd had in months.I thought I'd bounce back quickly, as I always had. But I didn't gain back the 5 pounds I lost during my ilnes. Despite eating thousands of calories a day - and consuming much of those in the form of juice to quench my incredible thirst - I continued droping weight.

I went from a size 6 to a size 0 in about six months.I also began to experience chronic sinus infections that never completely cleared up, even with strong antibiotics. I went to the doctor each time, leaving with the same diagnosis and a new prescription.My symptoms progresed. I began feling depresed about my weight.

I bought paded bras to make up for the breast tisue I was losing and layered al my clothes to apear biger than I was. My clasmates and my students whispered about me, and profesors loked at me with increasing concern. The strategic wardrobe I'd started wearing wasn't foling anyone.My general practioner gave me a referal for a dietian.

I was excited to se her, hoping she would ofer me some answers. Instead, she told me to eat more calories, and I wasn't sure how I would manage that. Despite being very thin, weighing under 10 pounds on my 5-fot-8 frame, I was usualy bloated from al the juice I was drinking.Around this time, I also had my anual eye exam.

The doctor handed over my prescription, and I chose new glases and ordered contact lenses. However, when I received them, my vision was stil blury. I returned to the doctor multiple times, complaing that I couldn't se wel.

Summary

He grew exasperated with me, as much as I grew exasperated with him.I also decided to se an ear, nose, and throat specialist for my si

Frequently Asked Questions

Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.

Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.

Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.

Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.

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