What tests diagnose diabetes?

 I am a 43-year-old female and I want to be tested for diabetes. What tests diagnose diabetes?

The diagnosis of diabetes mellitus is made by a blood (serum) glucose test. For non-pregnant adults a blood glucose level above 126 mg/dL before eating in the morning is considered diagnostic of diabetes mellitus. A blood glucose level over 200 mg/dL at any time will also make the diagnosis. Keep in mind that certain medications, stressful experiences such as acute illness or surgery may elevate the blood glucose levels. Persons with diabetes will frequently be complaining of thirst causing them to drink plenty of fluids and to urinate frequently, even interrupting their sleep. 

The distinction between prediabetes and diabetes is best made when the person is afebrile , not menstruating and preferably tested in the morning. A glucose challenge test using a sweet beverage with 75 g of glucose is sometimes ordered to confirm the diagnosis with blood drawn before the drink and 2 hrs after consuming it. 

Alternatively, some physicians rely on a hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test, which reflects a blood glucose average of the previous 3 months. A result greater than 6.5 % is considered diagnostic for diabetes. I prefer to confirm HbA1c results with blood glucose testing, as described, since the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus has very serious implications for both the patient and their health record. 

What are the treatment options for hypothyroidism?

I'm 40 years old, and I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism by my doctor just a few days ago. My doctor hasn't discussed the treatment options with me yet. How is this usually treated?

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland cannot produce adequate amounts of hormone to meet needs in the body. The diagnosis is made with special testing (TSH test). Thyroid hormone is replaced with a synthetic 'replica' or by hormone from animal sources. Levothyroxine , also known as T4, is usually prescribed and the body converts it to the active form known as  T3. In some cases , we prescribe both active T3 and T4 in combination. This may be the situation in persons who find that their energy level and other symptoms do not improve, even if testing shows that the dose of T4 prescribed is adequate. Your doctor will complete proper testing and monitor your progress on one of these options. They will decide if a brand name product or a generic preparation are the most appropriate for you. 

Should I be concerned about it when my mother and grandmother have diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus type 2 (insulin resistance)  in first degree relatives would classify you as having increased risk for developing diabetes. This means that periodic (at least annual) screening with glucose testing and HbA1c measurement are indicated. Diet and exercise are the best strategy for prevention. 

Diabetes mellitus type 1 (insulin dependent) in a first degree relative is much less likely to suggest that you are at risk for diabetes.  It usually is associated with antibodies against insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

Can being on too much thyroid medicine cause quick episodes of dizziness?

 

Thyroid hormone  supplements can cause a rapid hear rate and palpitations if dosed in excess. Anxiety and dizziness can result from such experiences. Treatment with thyroid hormone involves selecting the right preparation and dosing it accurately with blood testing under medical supervision. Be aware that thyroid hormone products on the market may also contain other ingredients in their tablets which can cause an allergic response.

Hb1Ac test?

 My Hb1Ac is 5.2 %  do I need to take diabetic medicine?

Diabetes medications are generally reserved for people who have diagnosed diabetes mellitus (HbA1c score over 6.5 % or a  fasting glucose level over 126 mg/dl). If you have have diabetes and  have achieved the HbA1c level of 5.2 % with medication you should make changes only with the approval of your doctor. If you are interested in diabetes prevention, you do not need to rely on medication. Diet and regular exercise to control weight are widely accepted as the most important diabetes prevention measures. A HbA1c of 5.2% is considered to be in the normal range for the general population. Healthy lifestyle under proper professional supervision is the approach I recommend to all of my patients. 

If my mother has diabetes am I guaranteed to have it later in life?

Type 2 diabetes, which is non-insulin dependent, is more likely to be seen in successive generations due to genetics. Avoiding excessive weight gain, remaining physically active and consuming a healthy diet help in preventing diabetes mellitus type 2. Your health care provider should monitor your blood tests (glucose level, hemoglobin A1c) to alert you if critical thresholds are exceeded and to guide you in prevention. Vitamin D is an important supplement which supports cells in your pancreas that produce insulin. 

Can diabetes cause weight loss?

My husband has been diagnosed with diabetes 3 months ago and he has lost 20 pounds since then. What should we do?

In poorly controlled diabetes the insulin supply which regulates the proper utilization of nutrients involved in growth is deficient. Food ingredients that normally would serve to grow tissue and give us strength are wasted, usually  lost in the urine. The cellular machinery that serves to process the sugar , protein and fat from our diet malfunctions without adequate insulin in the mix. Patients lose weight and strength. Brain function is affected  and people's concentration, memory and mood suffer. Insulin supply should be restored either by administering insulin or by prescribing medication that improves the body's insulin production and insulin activity. Weight gain will result. Care must be exercised because too much insulin can promote obesity.