Advice to a worried newbie

[Lee.piarroux]

Hi all,

Last week I was called at work after routine bloods to to be told that both my BG and iron levels were high......met with GP who was quiet casual about but suggested repeat tests and to see the diabetic nurse. My BG was 8 after fasting. Diabetic nurse gave me a load of leaflets and agreed repeat bloods.....the thing is I am going away on Thursday to volunteer in Brazil for 2 weeks, and whilst I can do everything right here manage my diet, get plenty of rest etc it won't be the same while I am there I will be working long shifts, sharing a dorm and I won't be cooking my own food. I haven't been 'officially' diagnosed either so does that mean I may not be diabetic.....it's all been a bit of a shock to be honest and I am just not sure what to do for the best, I am worried about getting ill in Brazil - is it possible to get really ill with a reading of 8 if so what signs should I look out for? Thank you

 

[Bluetit1802]

Hi and welcome,

Fasting tests are notoriously unreliable due to some external factors outside our control, such as stress, restless night, the dawn phenomenon (our livers dump glucose in our system to get us ready to face the day). However, a reading of 7 or above is a diabetic reading, but should be followed up with a second test and probably also an HbA1c test. This is the normal diagnostic test for type 2 and is a sort of average of the previous 3 months blood glucose levels.

Relax, have your blood test, go to Brazil and enjoy your time there. 2 weeks won't cause any additional harm. Perhaps just watch what you are eating and try to avoid as much carbohydrate as possible or keep the portions small, no biscuits or cakes etc. and keep fruit to a minimum, and do drink masses of water.

Have a great time!

 

[Prem51]

Hi @Lee.piarroux A meter blood test result of 8 mmol/L is not high, and as @Bluetit1802 says it can be due to a number of factors, and meters aren't 100% accurate. It is unlikely to cause any illness. You have not been diagnosed as diabetic - that would only happen if you have a HbA1c blood test which measures your blood sugar levels over the previous 8-12 weeks.
Arrange to have a full HbA1c test with your GP surgery, either before you go or when you come back, to get a definite diagnosis.
Go on your trip, enjoy the experience, don't worry about the test results, you can deal with those when you get them.