Covid and Diabetes

[IreneCatherineAnne]

Hi everyone,
Sorry for long post.
I was admitted to hospital last month with Covid Pneumonia, was on Oxygen, Dexamethasone and then once blood tests came back they said I was T2 Diabetic (HbA1c 65) so was injected with insulin a few times every day and Gliclazide tablet, as well as an injection each day of something to stop blood clots, they never said what it was called! Quite honestly at that time I was pretty out of it so didn't really care what they did if it was going to make me better.
After 2 weeks I was discharged with Glicazide and for another 2 weeks I took 80mg but felt dreadful with all the side effects, although my levels were ok (between 4 and 10 on my glucose monitor) according to the Diabetes Nurse but my Dr agreed to changing meds so now been on Meformin for a week and feel only slightly better.
My problem is not just coming to terms with Diabetes but the after effects of Covid are really confusing me, I'm breathless after a 5 minute walk, exhausted after hoovering a small carpet, fuzzy brain and cooking a healthy meal seems impossible. I have a slight sore head all the time, a slight sore tummy and slightly sore eyes so I'm not sure which condition they are from.
However I am going to try and follow a low carb diet now but need to return to work on the 26th April and am worried about everything! And now I can't remember what I was specifically going to ask, for goodness sake

 

[Antje77]

Hi @IreneCatherineAnne , and welcome to the forum.

My problem is not just coming to terms with Diabetes but the after effects of Covid are really confusing me,

On the diabetes part you have this whole forum for all your questions and to share your experiences, but for the longer lasting effects of covid you might like to have a look at this thread: https://www.diabetes.co.uk/forum/th...take-a-while-to-recover-from-covid-19.177287/

I hope things will improve for you soon!

 

[TashT1]

Welcome to the forum Irene, I’m sorry you are having to go through such a tough time.

Your experience points to long covid and diabetes is now being considered one of many long term conditions caused by covid. I’m curious as to whether they did a c-peptide test at the hospital? Your doctors could be assuming T2 based on age but there is a chance you have late onset diabetes brought on by covid. I’m speaking from experience here & a c-peptide test to measure insulin production was the only way I confirmed my diagnosis. T2’s have plenty of insulin but can’t process it where as T1’s produce low amounts & eventually none.

Low carb diets can help both types of diabetes. Less carbs mean less of a need for insulin from either your body or injected. Do you have anyone that can help you by cooking meals until you feel better?

Your exhaustion, fuzzy head, sore eyes could all be caused by your diabetes & lowering your numbers to between 4-7 would help. If you have to cook for yourself you could have a couple of go to meals that are low effort. For example eggs & bacon for breakfast, a salad for lunch, meat & veg for tea. You could also use an app to carb count & keep track of meals so you have less to hold in your mind.

If possible I would take more time off work as it does not sound like you are fit to go back.

 

[becca59]

I agree with @TashT1 you do not sound anywhere near ready to go back to work. I know April 26th might sound a long way off, but I feel that pressure needs to be removed to aid your recovery.
Also agree with getting the proper tests for type 1.

 

[Andie79]

Hi, my situation was quite similar to yours.. ended up in hospital in early January with Covid pneumonia and also diagnosed as T2.. the dexamethasone really sent my blood sugars high and I was on an insulin pump and additional shots.
Re the tiredness etc.. that is totally normal.. but it does get better. As hard as it is you do need to make sure you’re not overdoing it (if only I could practice what I preach lol).. slow and steady.. and carry on with your breathing exercises.. they do help.
I can’t really help with the meds.. I was discharged on insulin.. though I’m gradually reducing it and trying to behave food wise. If they haven’t told u you can apply for a medical exemption card for free prescriptions.. you need to get a form from your GP surgery.
The blood thinning meds would probably have been clexane which is normal when ur not mobile in hospital.
Hope you feel better soon. I’ve found people on here to be really helpful so ask away! I still am.

 

[Circuspony]

You sound like you're still suffering the after effects of covid. I think your GP needs to sign you off for at least April and then reassess.

I think you'll have to just keep an eye on your medication needs. You may need less as your body heals but that's just going to take time. I really hope you start to feel better soon