My doctor seems a bit cavalier

alanhhh

Newbie
Messages
1
I have been T2 for eight years. Everything up until now seems OK according to doc but I only see him once a year (plus a second blood test with the nurse). Doctor says I don't need to test as diabetes is well under control and only advice is "don't eat the wrong sort of food". I feel OK for the most part but I am taking a great many tablets metformin, gliclazide, statins etc. Is this right or am I storing up trouble in the future?
 

John J

Active Member
Messages
35
More experienced members will be able to advise you better but I'd be anxious about taking as much medication and not testing....

I don't test myself but I've been very strict with myself and only take drugs for high BP
so far.
See viewtopic.php?f=25&t=13456

Thankfully, my readings have been very good. However, if I was advised to take medication I'd certainly want to have more control over the situation.
At the present time, I feel fine and probably don't need to test but that's only because there are no real issues associated with my condition. Things may well change.
 

Synonym

Well-Known Member
Messages
1,384
Dislikes
Having no energy as this is so limiting.
Hi Alan :)

Have you asked for a meter and a prescription for testing strips? If you want to be more proactive in managing your condition make an appointment to see your GP or DN and ask for them. If the answer is 'no' then you can purchase them yourself if you want to know what your food is doing to your body.

How will you know what the 'wrong food' is if you can't test. :roll: We are all different and different foods affect each of us quite differently.
 

petra

Newbie
Messages
2
firstly-most diabetics end up on a handful of tablets-Im afraid that is the norm to protect you from CVD. A lot of GPs have become de-skilled with diabetes and handed this over to their practice nurses. They are often highly skilled in managing diabetes-please don't underestimate their skills. A lot of practices have a lead GP for diabetes and what they know about it you could write about it on a postage stamp-one actually said that to me so I do know. If your HbA1c is <7% then I wouldn't worry too much. If it is >7% then you may need to increase your meds/reduce carbs/increase your exercise. Check in with your practice nurse and see what she recommends.
 

pleonism

Member
Messages
15
Hey Allanhhhh,

I am in usa and not on your health system/insurance but a few months ago my doctor asked me how many times I tested, as we were discussing a new perscription for test strips. I said as many as I feel I need to keep control of my disease. (he was trying to save my insurance some money I think) I then said that I pay for the insurance and they provide it. When they decrease my monthly insurance bill @ $1400 (family plan) plus fees for seeing doctors I will reduce my need for supplies. until then your job is to the patiet and not the insurance company. ( Capitalism is not all it is cracked up to be...yes I am rambling)

Good luck,

pleo