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Getting the Freestyle Libre

Diabeticmomma

Newbie
Messages
3
Location
UK
Type of diabetes
Type 1
Treatment type
Insulin
Hi
I’ve actually been Diabetic for 13 years (Type2) but I’ve seen a Endio recently and he sent me for a C-Peptide test to determine if I was Type 1 or Type 2.

I received the results yesterday and I’m Type 1. I was shocked and cried about it but at least I know for certain now.

My question is, how long will it take for me to get the Libre sensor? I’ve never really come to terms with my Diabetes (but there’s more behind it).
I’ve had 5 DKA’s, tried a tablet to control Diabetes without Insulin but it made me have a DKA. I get really down about it, don’t test my sugars, do use my insulin regularly.

Sorry about waffling on but looking forward to getting to know you all
 

Hi,

You should practice testing regularly. Especially if you are a driver.

To date, being T1 don't automatically qualify for Libre sensors to be NHS funded & prescribed.
Long story, there is a "criteria." It took me 2 years (aprox of self funding) & enquiries before my endo gave the thumbs up.
 
Welcome to the forums

Diabeticmomma said:
I’ve had 5 DKA’s, tried a tablet to control Diabetes without Insulin but it made me have a DKA. I get really down about it, don’t test my sugars, do use my insulin regularly.
Click to expand...
Well, if you were a misdiagnosed T1 the DKAs are probably because you needed insulin instead of T2 medication, so I guess the good thing is that you hopefully won't get more of those because you now have the right treatment and don't skip your insulin doses.

As far as the libre goes, you need to look at the funding criteria and see if you qualify, then make a case to your endocrinologist. The NHS aims to fund 20% of T1s, conditions are in the diabetes UK link below.

Flash glucose monitoring | Diabetes UK

Otherwise, if you've got the money for it, you can self fund, but I appreciate that many people can't afford the sort of money you need for a cgm. (Note there are other cgms available, but libre is the main one funded by the nhs.) Be aware that it's not always accurate, particularly for hypos, so even if you get one you'll still need to blood test occasionally.

As a T1, you may also qualify to get an insulin pump if you and your clinic think it would help, so there are other advantages to the correct diagnosis.

But you do need to test (legally before you get behind the wheel of a car), practically before you eat so that you can dose for your meals correctly.

Good luck.
 
Thank you for putting my mind at ease that I can openly ask these kind of questions. I’m seeing my Diabetic nurse next week and we’ll be going from there with trying to re-educate me on how I need to carb count and change my ways. I’ve never been a great Diabetic but turning 40 not long ago made me realise I need to get a grip. I’m looking forward to all the help I can get
 
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