I haven't been online much for a couple of days. My blood sugar levels were really high, so Tuesday afternoon, I went to the doctor. He told me that I needed to go on insulin. At first I was a bit upset, but knew that if that is what I needed to do, I had to get on with it. I had visions of taking needles like my paternal grandmother used to. She had shringes and had to fill them and give herself a shot in the thigh four times a day. That wasn't something I wanted to do.
When the doctor showed me the new insulin pen, I thought it would be much better. I was surprised how far technology has improved since those days. This morning I went to the drugstore for the pharmacist to teach me how to use the pen and the insulin.
Tonight just before dinner, I took my first insulin shot. It was a breeze. In fact the first time I inserted the needle, I took it out because I didn't feel it go in. Hubby asked me why I took it out. So, I inserted it again and still didn't feel anything. When I pushed the plunger, I knew the insulin was being injected.
The pharmacist had told me to take my blood sugar two hours after eating. At that time it was still high. He had told me to take it again a couple of hours later, so at 11pm, I took it and it was 4.5. Excellent!!!
The next few days will be experimental. I am keeping track of my blood sugar levels and writing them in a little notebook that I will take to the dr with me on Tuesday of next week. That way he can better determine what dosage is best for me. Currently I'm injecting 10 units before breakfast and dinner. The dose may have to be lowered or increased.
I think being put on insulin may just be a blessing. Several people I've talked to says it beats taking 9 pills a day and that insulin controls your blood sugar much better than the pills. So, this Christmas season is unique to me. I'm learning something new and I'm sure when my blood sugar levels are under control, I will feel much better.
If you have diabetes and take insulin, or if you have any experience with loved ones who have diabetes and take insulin, I'd love any tips or hints that might help me with this transition.
Good luck with your insulin, Mary. I'm still on metformin tabs twice a day and my diabetes is well controlled with that, so far.
ReplyDeleteHope the insulin makes you feel better and you get it regulated quickly.
Love and hugs,
Diane
I wish & pray sound health for you. And your writings can be strength for people. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteadvice? don't get slack. stay on your sugar like white on rice. and keep OJ or sugar with you at all times in case you drop suddenly.
ReplyDeleteI forget you're in Canada till you mentioned the 4.5 reading. I'm not sure what unit of measurement that is....but you'd be dead here! haha. we keep sugar around 120
Besides myself being a nurse, my daughter is a type 1 diabetic, so I'm used to insulin. She used the pen first and now has an insulin pump, which works very well for her.
ReplyDeleteI know you'll do great! If you have any questions feel free to ask.
We discover something new all the time. I'm hoping you'll fee better right away. Now you have to stay away from those Christmas goodies. My Dad was diabetic but he got by with the tablets. He had to check his blood glucose every morning.
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of new things: I have trouble with my nose getting dry and crusty inside in the winter. Sometimes this even causes it to bleed. Its the heat, I know. For years, I've used this ointment that the doctor prescribed in 1968, It takes such a small amount but finally it is all gone. I was telling my daughter about it(the pharmacist)and she told me about this saline ointment that comes in a tube. I bought some and I use a Q tip to apply it. It works great.
Mama Bear
I am impressed that you are finding it so easy to do. Times must really have changed.
ReplyDeleteI had a good friend in school who took insulin shots and I tell you, it works! Thing is, as you say, to get the dosage that is right for you. 4.5 seems way too low...but your readings in Canada are quite different it seems.
ReplyDeleteJust keep an eye on your readings and if you feel weird, drink fruit juice. I hear that helps.
Pulling for you. I think you'll be amazed how well you'll feel with your sugar levels in no time.
I am praying for you dear one, please take care. If you have any questions about your diabetes, just email me. I love you.
ReplyDeleteMary, I'm sorry you've not been feeling well, but I have complete faith that with the insulin you will get your blood sugar back in control and start feeling alot better again. My mom and grandfather were both diabetics but I know that medicine has made leaps and bounds since they've been gone.
ReplyDeleteI got your wonderful book and plan on starting it tonight if I can finish the one I'm reading. I can't wait to start, it looks really good! Did yours get there yet? Hope so, if not know that it is on the way!
You'll probably be amazed at how much better you'll feel once the doctor has put you on the right dosage for you. My aunt Delima was taking the pills for the longest time but now she's taking the shots and says she can control her blood sugar so much better. I'm so glad that you had no trouble giving yourself a shot, as you say modern technology is a great thing. They say that 4.5 to 7.0 mmol/L (80 to 125 mg/dL)is the normal person's blood sugar levels. Last time I was checked, mine was 4.8 so I guess I'm normal! lol Take care of YOU my friend. xoxo
ReplyDeleteGlad to know it didn't hurt... Don't know too many people personally that have dibetes that take the shots.. lots that take the pills.. Hope it all gets smoothed out soon...
ReplyDeleteI don't really have any advice to give you, except to take care of yourself! Hope everything goes okay with you.
ReplyDelete