How to manage blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes?

Question

Hello doctor

I am 34 years old and was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes six months ago, and I am completely overwhelmed trying to manage everything. My hemoglobin A1C was 11.2 at diagnosis and despite being on Metformin and trying to follow a diabetic diet, my blood sugars are still running 250-350 most days. The medication makes me incredibly nauseous and gives me terrible diarrhea that disrupts my work schedule. I have lost 22 pounds without trying, which everyone says should be good, but I am worried because I feel weak and dizzy all the time. My vision has been getting blurry lately, and I am having these weird tingling sensations in both feet that keep me awake at night. My grandmother went blind from diabetes complications and had both legs amputated, so I am terrified that I am heading down the same path. The dietitian gave me a meal plan, but it is so restrictive and expensive that I cannot stick to it. Are there other medications that will not make me so sick? How fast do complications develop? Should I be seeing a specialist?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I can understand how daunting it can be to manage type 2 diabetes, particularly with the symptoms and side effects you are facing. Let us tackle your concerns one step at a time.

To begin with, there are alternative medications to Metformin (medication for high blood sugar) that may not lead to such intense side effects. Options like Sulfonylureas (stimulate insulin release), DPP (dipeptidyl peptidase)-4 inhibitors, GLP (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists, and SGLT2 (sodium-glucose cotransporter 2) inhibitors are available. It is important to discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable option for you.

Dealing with symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea can be quite difficult. Sometimes, modifying the dosage or the timing of Metformin can provide relief. Taking it alongside meals or opting for an extended-release version may help alleviate side effects.

The symptoms you are experiencing, including blurry vision and tingling sensations in your feet, could indicate potential complications related to diabetes. It is essential to have these symptoms evaluated by a specialist, such as an endocrinologist or a diabetologist, to avert further complications.

Complications can arise at varying speeds, but keeping your blood sugar levels well-controlled is crucial for slowing their advancement. Regular monitoring and necessary adjustments to your treatment plan are essential.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.