New to the site and looking for advice.

[Lou73]

Hi, I was diagnosed with T2DM in March. I've been looking at this site regularly but hadn't plucked up the courage to join.
My diabetes may have been triggered by the steroids I've been taking for 17 months due to rheumatoid arthritis - although I do have a family history of it - and had gestational diabetes (18 years ago).
I've yet to get my blood sugars under control- I'm sure that my meds and pain don't help. However, I'm currently on holiday in Crete and my blood sugars are getting high all the time - whether I've eaten or not. It's making me feel awful - blurred vision, fatigue etc.
can you tell me if the heat can affect blood sugars?
I'm trying to drink plenty of water in the hope of bringing levels down - but it's not working. I had a reading of 20.4 yesterday - about 5 hours after eating - and 19.8 today.
Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[mo53]

Im sure somebody will come along with advice

 

[pavlosn]

Dear Lou

I believe that heat does cause blood sugar to rise but not to the extent that you describe, otherwise those of us living in warmer climes would have no chance of managing it. Besides i expect that it is not that hot in Crete at the moment, not compared to the summer at least.

I take it the the figures you quote are unusual and not your average numbers when at home. What are your typical numbers like?

What about diet? Are you watching your carb intake. Probably the best way to bring levels down is to cut right down on all carbohydrates, bread, pasta, rice, sugar etc. keep away from fruit as well, at least until your levels are down.

Exercise like a brisk walk is usually helpful to bring levels down quickly.

Are you still on steroids? I understand they not only can be responsible for bringing on diabetes but also play havoc with trying to control diabetes. Could the role of the steroids be worse in higher temperatures?

Sorry I can not be of more help but if you give us some more info I am sure that others will be able to offer better advice soon.

All the best

Pavlos


Sent from the Diabetes Forum App

 

[Lou73]

Thank you Pavlos. Temp has been about 30 degrees - so quite warm.
I apologise - I appear to have posted this a few times - hotel wifi.
I am trying to stay away from carbs - I'm vegetarian and the choice can be limited for me when I'm away. Also staying away from fruit and sweet stuff.
I've walked a bit - but have mobility issues and suffer with pain and fatigue so am also limited with this.
My levels are quite high at home too - but it's happening now even when I'm not eating. I'm also suffering with sweating from my head constantly - has been going on for some time but is worse at the moment.