Re: sad- to Becky

[Guest guest]

Becky wrote:

<I was a diabetic before I had the attack but I was able to keep my blood

sugars under control. Since I had the attack FORGET IT! I take a lot of

insulin

N & R & Lantus. My sugar level rarely goes under 200.>

Becky, are you seeing a qualified endocrinologist? These blood sugar levels

are much too high, and if you continue with them this high, you're setting

yourself up for all kinds of diabetic complications in the future. If you're

only

seeing a PCP for this, he's obviously not got you on the right insulin schedule.

Is there someone with some insulin experience that can teach you what

dosages you need to get your levels down?

< I also take Lipram CR a pancreatic enzyme. I'm hurting almost all the time

now.>

What dosage and amounts of the Lipram are you taking? If not enough, the

enzymes won't do much to help with your pain. There are also other brands,

Viokase is one, that work better at keeping pain to a minimum.

<Despite the pain, emergency room docs don't believe me when I say that I

have chronic pancreatitis. They take blood tests and say, " Your pancreas is

normal " .>

Unfortunately, you already know if you've been reading the posts for a while,

that this is a problem that many suffer with. Best thing to do is to call your

doctor prior to any admission or ER visit, and have him there or call in to tell

the ER personnel that your complaints are valid.

I hope you are able to locate a specialized gastroenterologist. If nothing

else,

search the yellow pages and start making phone calls. Ask when you call if

the gastroenterologist has experience with chronic pancreatitis patients.

When you find one that has, set up an initial appointment. You deserve to

have a doctor that understands your particular problems. This advice also

relates to your diabetic needs, you need to find an Endo that can get your

insulin requirements under control. There are other insulin regimens that may

be better suited for you. I've been able to keep my BG's averaging at 102 for

over a year now, in spite of two attacks during that time, so I know it is

possible. The insulin set up that I'm on is what makes this possible. If you

have any questions about what I take, please feel free to contact me privately.

With love, hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

South Carolina

SC & SE Regional Rep.

PAI

Note: All comments or advice are based on personal experience or opinion

only, and should not be substituted for consultation with a medical

professional.