Major Health Issues...Just diagnosed...

United States
June 15, 2009 8:02pm CST
We just found out today that my DH has Diabetes. He's 38 years old. We don't know if it's Type I or II yet... He came home from the Dr. with a monitoring device and 4 RX for needles, insulin, lancets and strips. I'm in a daze. I mean, I know that there are millions of people who deal with this every day, but I also know it can be a very serious health issue... Thank Gods we have health insurance! This has been an on-going battle with him for about 3 years now... Well for longer than that, but since my son was born, we've really been battling the whole "Get a check-up" thing. He's a guy, he's young and cocky... He hates doctors and so in the 12+ years we've been together, he's only seen a dr maybe 3 times and those times were results of accidents. So his health has steadily been going down hill and he finally went. And he came back with this. (sigh) Anyone who can shed some light on the disease (in laymen's terms) is welcome to shed the light my way... Anyone who can offer advice, suggestions, and referrals for resources, feel free to send them my way. I've already found Diabetes.ORG but since we don't know the type yet, I'm kind of stuck because the types are dependent... I'm worried and scared for him, for my son.... Just looking for some support. Thanks friends.
2 responses
catbirdgirl
@catbirdgirl (52)
• United States
17 Jun 09
frequently hospitals will do a diabetes management class. Make him go. also, a lot depends on diet and exercise. I am shocked they didn't do oral meds first. but make him take this very seriously.
Raven7317
@Raven7317 (691)
• United States
17 Jun 09
Good morning. So far, I've done so much research that my head is swimming with information. We're learning to use the tester and the give the shots... a follw up visit to the dr will be very soon to answer all the questions we have. I fully intend on going the route of finding a manager/nutritionist. We are both taking this very seriously, we have a little boy who will be 4 soon... Thank you for your reply!
ethereal1
@ethereal1 (215)
• Australia
16 Jun 09
Don't worry yourself too much just yet! like you said, millions of people live happy lives with diabetes. Hopefully, now that your husband know he has a serious health issue, he might go to the doctor a bit more regularly. I am not an expert on diabetes, but I think the main important things to do are exercise, eat lower GI foods, and monitor blood sugar. Cutting down on the refined sugar in the diet of everyone in your family can't do any harm. Your husband should be carrying insulin and also a small packet of lollies in case his blood sugar gets too low.
Raven7317
@Raven7317 (691)
• United States
17 Jun 09
Good morning, thank you for your response. Yes, I am managing my worry - I have done alot of research and as long as we manage his food and increase his excercise, I think he will be okay. He actually has extremely high blood sugar, so first we have to get it under control... and we have to get some weight on him as he's very skinny and has lost most of his muscle mass... You're right, this change in lifestyle will benefit us all - once we make some changes we will all be much healthier!