My own physician wasn't available this week, so I saw one of her associates today. I needed to refill a prescription, which was no problem. I asked her about the blood tests, but she refused to order them.
She doesn't think there's much practical difference between T1 and T2 and, in any event, my BG numbers are coming down. She's not concerned about the spikes, etc. when many of my numbers are within the target range that she thinks is ideal. She disputes the link between T1/LADA and hypothyroidism saying that it's coincidental, not indicative of anything. The blood tests are too expensive to order "just" to see whether I'm producing insulin antibodies, anyway. If I am, I'll have to go on insulin right away, which she seemed to feel was a very poor choice when oral meds can take care of me for a long time, maybe forever.
I don't agree. I told her that I want to preserve as many beta cells as possible. I'm not upset about insulin: it keeps BG levels steady and reduces complications. She says that most people have a very hard time with insulin because there are so many things to keep in mind and calculate for accurate dosing. Most diabetics don't achieve normal BG levels and so she advised me that my determination to do so is unrealistic.
There was no point in arguing. I see the endo in three weeks.
I just have to hope that he's more open, less inclined to judge my goals on the basis of what other diabetics do, or don't do, or even try to do. I'm not "most" people and this is my body we're talking about, and my expectation that I will have a very fine quality of life for many years to come.
I'm not sure that "most" diabetics know enough about their diabetes or that they can have normal BG and avoid complications if they pay attention. I think that one big failing of the medical establishment and the Diabetes Assocs is that they don't give diabetics enough information to make clear, informed choices. I think it's irresponsible to make choices for others without telling them! Sure, many people may have trouble maintaining a low-carb diet for years on end, but how many would reject the option if they knew that they could avoid going blind, having kidney failure or losing a foot?
Hi Ann: Wow, let me be blunt, that is a lot of ignorance packaged up in one person, and you are so right, best not to argue with a person like that. Here is a link to about researchers establishing the linkage between autoimmune hypothyroidism and autoimmune diabetes. And of course there is a huge difference between autoimmune diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. I hope that the endo you see is more helpful--good luck and let us know how it goes!
The association between hypothyroidism and Type 1 DM is well established. It is sometimes called PGA (Polyglandular Autoimmune Syndrome) or APG (Autoimmune Polyglandular Failure) just google it and you will find a fair amount written about it. I think it is likely that it is way under diagnosed as it is a bit esoteric for the average primary care doc. Cheers
Thank you, everyone. I expect that the endocrinologist will know about this. I will make note of the studies, though, just in case. The thing is, I have Multiple Sclerosis, which is also an autoimmune disorder. Put everything together and it looks to me like T1/LADA is the only dx that makes sense. I'm impatient to get on with things, but there's a lot to learn, too. I can take advantage of the time between now and my appointment with the endo to learn as much as I can and to have good questions to ask.
Man, that is one brain washed Dr. Talk about your typical, uninformed dribble.
You are absolutely on the right track. Learn all you can and be your best advocate. Even the best Dr can only give you so much guidance. It is your body and your life. And you are right, you are NOT most people. And yes, maybe "most people" would do more and have better control if they WERE given complete and accurate information about D to start with. Let it be MY choice to work hard or not. Don't just assume it will be beyond my will or ability!!!
This attitude really gets me going! My wife doesn't even have D and she goes ballistic on professionals who spew thiis stuff.
