As a teen I was diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) which prompted my doctor to be concerned about me possibly becoming diabetic. In February 2012 I went to see my OBGYN for my yearly appointment and she decided to run some blood tests. When those results came in I was referred to an Endocrinologist. At the Endocrinologist appointment yesterday, March 6th, 2012, I was told that I have diabetes.
What does that mean for me now?
- My lifestyle and diet must change. Less carbs, more fruits and veggies. More exercise.
- I'm still taking it all in and trying to figure out how to adjust. I use to think diabetic people couldn't have sugar but it's so much more than that.
- My doctor didn't give me much information on how to make the change. She basically had her nurse come in a show me how to use the blood sugar checker thing (which they gave me a cute purple one) and to explain that I should only have about 60 grams of carbs per meal and that 15 carbs is one serving. I tried to take everything in but I was in shock. I was still trying to digest the fact that I had diabetes.
- I have to take my blood sugar several times a day now. I have questions about it that have surfaced since I've had time to come home and think.
- I have to take Metformin daily. This is a lot better than taking insulin but I do expect some side effects.
- I'm scared. I feel like having diabetes is a really big deal. I feel like I have failed myself.
