Anonymous Question Poor diabetes control + Work

[Anonymous Question]

Anonymous question submitted:

I was diagnosed with late onset diabetes 10 years ago at the age of 44. My HBA1c is usually about 8 but even this poor result is only achieved by huge swings between lots of hypos and the same of hypers: 2.7-3.3 and readings over 12 are quite common. For the last 9 months I have found it increasingly difficult to do my job - I make decisions on disclosure/non disclosure of non-conviction information about people being vetted to work with children and vulnerable adults. My line manager and her line manager have asked me if my poorly controlled diabetes (I take relatively small amounts of fast and slow acting insulin) could be to blame. The situation came to a head last week when they thought I was on drugs because my reactions to being questioned were so slow (my blood sugar was 12.3 at the time). They have decided I am no longer able to continue doing the job and I have been moved to a much less demanding role. Is there any evidence to suggest that my long term poor control of my diabetes could be to blame for my inability to do my job? Your thoughts would be very much appreciated

To submit a question, please go to http://www.diabetes.co.uk/ask-an-anonymous-question.html

 

[Spiker]

I'm very sorry to hear that.

It is a strong possibility that erratic blood sugars are to blame, but there are other possible explanations such as thyroid function. These should be checked out with your diabetes team or GP, particularly as you have been OK for ten years.

Sent from the Diabetes Forum App

 

[mo1905]

Poor control will certainly affect your work performance. Lethargy, confusion and poor concentration are classic symptoms. The worrying thing is that as diabetics, we are covered by The Equality Act at work but if your performance is affected by poor control, it's difficult to enforce it. I would keep a detailed diary for a week or so and speak to your doc/nurse. Regular highs/lows need attention. As Spiker wrote, there may be something else going on which is affecting your levels.