Diabetes N Hypertension

Pump Up The Jam..And The Cake..And the Doughnuts…

6 August, 2008 · Filed under Uncategorized · Tagged basal, bolusing, counting carbs, doughnuts, endocrinologist, excess fingerpricking, Fats and Figures, great blood sugar readings, insulin pump, Karen Daly, Mater Children's Hospital, Medtronic paradigm insulin pump, test strips, tight control

To all of our family, (biological and extended,) friends, fellow D Bloggers who sent their best and even complete strangers who heard about Lance’s “story”, I’m very pleased to report that Lance is home, happy, and has his insulin pump fitted!

Being such a momentous reason to celebrate, Lance and I trekked into Brisbane City, where we chowed down on a fresh doughnut, with pink glaze icing. When we were served, Lance looked at me with panic stricken eyes. It was the most joyous feeling to reassure him that he could have doughnuts occasionally, and that the press of a few buttons would take care of the insulin required to keep his blood sugar levels in a healthy range.

A delicious reality...

So far, his readings have been super, and I haven’t felt “that” internal sensation of butterflies on amphetamines due to a deathly low or ridiculous high reading for almost a week now! Lance has had only 2 hypos this week! Both were treatable, and I didn’t feel like I needed a session with Dr Phil after he had recovered!

His endocrinologist would like him to eventually strive for readings between 4mmol/L and 8 mmol/L. I am elated to say that he isn’t far off these levels, and is achieving amazing readings without a great deal of effort! Fantastic basals, Doc. Thanks a bunch.

Lance chose a uber cool, steel grey Medtronic Paradigm pump which he has adjusted to wearing without any issues whatsoever. His initial fears of “What will it feel like to sleep with it?” are thoughts of the past. Despite the Pump Education being very swift, I have emerged feeling very confident with site changes, and bolusing for meals and snacks.

My “Bible,” Fats and Figures, by Karen Daly, is never far from sight; it has proven to be a fantastic reference book for counting carbs.

In the past hour I have spied used test strips in the bed, on the floor, in the car,and even in the washing machine! Never has there been so many fingerpricks performed! The house is untidy, but not dirty. For once, I don’t care in the least. My son is calmer, more stable, less vulnerable, and radiating pure happiness, without a mention of a headache or aching legs. No more guzzling water or lying listlessly on the sofa…

Finally, he’s just Lance.

Here’s to the life you were meant to have, sweetheart. This is how seven-and-a-half year old boys are supposed to behave and feel.

Our sincere thanks must go to Louise from Medtronic, Dr C and the Staff at the Mater Children’s Hospital.

You all played intergral roles in getting Lance off the syringe diet, and pumping his way to carefree, less chaotic days.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=9522514959

DAMMIT Diabetes…..

22 June, 2008 · Filed under Uncategorized

Just wanted to let you all know that I am still alive, but I am terribly sad.

Lance got some blood work back that was “concerning.”

We have more tests this week-it appears that his kidneys are excreting lots of what they shouldn’t be. I don’t know which kidney, or if it’s both..hence the reason for further urgent testing.

Nothing can ever prepare a parent for the day when your endo, whom you know so well you consider a friend, can’t look you in the eye whilst giving bad news. I had already caught a glimpse of the results, the numbers marked in red with ABNORMAL emblazoned across the page. My heart was racing double time. I studied his face, searching for an explanation, only to have him plant his eyes into the ground, whilst he spoke.

Anyway, I can’t write too much more. I just wanted to feel like I hadn’t lost touch with the world. Diabetes 24 hours a day is very consuming and toxic. I needed to know that you all are still soldiering on.

As soon as there is some news to give (Tuesday EST) I will certainly post to let Lance’s friends’ and family know his health status and what the future holds.

“But he looks so healthy!!!” a Diabetes Educator exclaimed as she read the endo’s scrawl. She was organising urgent tests/appointments for this coming week. I looked at her incredulously, and silently walked out of the room. His little hand pressed in mine.

The rest is a blur. Just trying to get through minute by minute at the moment.

Ironically, last night, Lance said to me ” Mum, if they could take Diabetes out of my body and put it in yours, I would forbid them to do it.”

“Why sweetie?” (I have always told him, if i could, that I would swap our situations in a heartbeat.)

“I can handle Diabetes, and somehow, I don’t think you would do too well.”

How can someone so young, get it so right?

Comments (7) »

JDRF Australia Joins FACEBOOK.

15 June, 2008 · Filed under Uncategorized

There are many groups that are available to people with diabetes, parents with a child who lives with diabetes, or simply offering support to an organisation devoted to Diabetes on Facebook.

Up until now, I have recruited members to JDRF International and I am a proud member myself.

However, I am even more proud to announce that our pet charity, JDRF Australia has just set up their own group,that is devoted to providing and receiving support on Facebook!!

Why not show your support by becoming a member of JDRF Australia?

Lance is a passionate and devoted member of JDRF, and has raised almost $6000 in the past 3 years through selling Jelly Baby Merchandise each May, and providing donated prizes to the Annual Brisbane Gala Ball. He is also somewhat of a media star -he has passionately spoken to numerous journalists and radio announcers. His heartfelt and beautiful words have melted the hearts of our community. Many people of all ages have emptied the change from their wallets and contacted JDRF Brisbane, asking how the can make a contibution on Lance’s behalf!

He is so proud of his title and role as a JDRF Youth Ambassador, He wants to help find a cure not only himself, but for all people who have Type 1 Diabetes.

You can support Lance personally, or the other 140 000 Australians that suffer from Type 1 Diabetes. Simply click on this link below, and show your support to the organisation that provides the very best research and funding to scientists in Australia.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=9522514959

Considering it is also approaching the end of the financial year, you may like to make a donation to JDRF Australia. All donations over $2 are tax deductible. JDRF will happily provide you with a receipt to include with your tax paperwork!

Since Lance was diagnosed almost 6 years ago, there has been much progress made, and we are so much closer to finding THE CURE. This could not have been achieved without the kindness and generosity of people who want children like Lance to lead a life without injections, fingerpricks, following a restricted diet, long term complications and ultimately, never experiencing a real “childhood.”

You can also leave a message or an enquiry on the JDRF Australia Facebook Group, and a member or advocate will be delighted to provide advice and share their experiences.

If you know someone that could benefit from joining the JDRF Australia Facebook Group, please pass the link onto them. To our many international friends and readers, if you wish to say G’Day to the fantastic group of people who have given us hope and love, and instilled courage and confidence in Lance, it costs nothing to become a member of the group. It costs nothing to leave a comment. We would love to hear from you!!!

Any donations go directly to providing the best research in the country. You can even find out how to become an exclusive member of JDRF Australia via the Facebook page!

The page was established only one day ago, and it would be a fantastic to see member numbers rise from Why Did The Insulin Die readers, and friends of Lance

He is one little boy who is determined to make a difference.

Your support and assistance is always appreciated.

Love and Jellybabies!!!

Kate (JDRF Australia Advocate) and Lance (JDRF Australia Youth Ambassador.)

No comment »

Sugar Overload.

6 June, 2008 · Filed under By Kate, Diabetes Complications, Diafrustration, From Parent to Parent, Uncategorized · Tagged insulin pump, DKA, Novorapid, hyperglycaemia, thirst, excessive urination, ketone strips, insulin titration, excessive fingerpricking, insulin expiry, new injection

Diabetes and I have been at loggerheads ALL week.

This is the first time I have had a chance to write anything for days. Lance has had one of his worst weeks in his diabetes history. I simply don’t know where to begin.

I actually meant that, I don’t know where to start.

Okay..well. He has 70 new holes in his fingers since I last wrote. He looks like he has had two small teething puppies chewing on his fingers for hours on end. For the first time ever, he is baulking at having tests. Because it hurts, and there is nowhere left on his fingers left to test. I have to move to the base of his thumb (the fleshy part on his palm) to test, which has gone down as well as a bunch of lead balloons.

Instead of being “Hypo-boy”, he has turned into a walking toffee apple.

All week long, Lance has been been living in the 20mmol/L vicinity. That’s the roughneck part of Diabetes town. Really hard to escape unscathed. I have thrown insulin pens in the bin, and replaced them with brand new ones directly from the fridge. Nup..the insulin wasn’t losing its potency. The due date isn’t until September 09. It’s NOT the insulin.

So it must be Lance. Something has gone beserk inside his body. He is well, fit, and shows no signs of infection or sickness. Growth spurt I hear you say? Maybe, although the last one has only recently died down.

I made a long appointment with our GP to discuss what to do. I can usually titrate and tinker around with a little bit of Novorapid here and there, however this week, he has been having 8 units extra, on top of his daily dosage. He has 16 units of Novorapid in total everyday, and it usually works like Pacman, gobbling up any tiny globule of sugar in his blood. It’s so good, it’s dangerous. Usually. This week, I could swear that I’m on Candid Camera..hey, have you guys done the ol’ switcheroo on us? Put water into his insulin pens?

No. Sigh. DAMMIT. It couldn’t possibly be something so simple.

Then there’s the never ending threat of DKA sneaking up and tapping us on the shoulder. I mean, Lance has spent so much time in the toilet this week, his body desperately trying to flush away this overload of sugar that has left him so weak, achy, restless and responsible for his washed out, puffy appearance.

Ketone strips line the inside of the bathroom bin.

I decided that I would introduce an extra injection at lunchtime. By crikey, I cracked the code.

The whole of yesterday and today have been just perfect. 7mmol/L or thereabouts all day through.

Only this afternoon have the rosy apples returned to Lance’s cheeks, He doesn’t look like a clammy, sickly addict from the ghettos of Diabetestown anymore.

Lance’s new pump is going to kick all of this seesawing to the kerb.

It’s just a matter of patiently waiting..waiting..waiting…

In the meantime, I am struggling with the many thoughts of what a week of constant hyperglycaemia has done to his organs, his arteries…I try to push these thoughts away, despite the toment and fear they instill in me…

It’s not like it’s raining cats and endocrinoligists here, either.

It’s not like I can get an appointment for tomorrow and plant the evidence of the past week in front of an endo and get some reassurance and explanations. I’d even settle for an understanding nod-of-the-head at the moment.

Our next appointment is over 2 weeks away, and I can’t do a thing to change it.

Despite my fears and mournful revalations, I am so grateful that the hurri(sugar)cane has passed.

The voracious consumption of water has died down.

I don’t have to cringe when the toilet flushes…Lance can actually celebrate the return of carbohydrates tonight, as they were enemy this week.

So now, we are up to 6 set injections a day.

7 new holes a week.

I don’t think I could bring myself to complain about a lil ol’ hypo for a while after this…

However, as usual, my boy smiles broadly at me, he hardly seems aware of the nightmare that was the past week. Despite the fact that he suffered, and had headaches, and legaches, and cried in sheer frustration, he is now at peace within his body.

Exhale.

Comments (2) »

“Are All Diabetic Parents Miserable?”

25 May, 2008 · Filed under Uncategorized · Tagged Add new tag, are diabetic parents miserable?, reader question

Genevieve, a reader, was speaking to an aquaintence whom she assumed was clueless about Diabetes.

That was until they stung the conversation with this little prick of a generalisation.

“ALL DIABETIC PARENTS ARE MISERABLE.”

Genevieve was insulted and furious that a person could utter such words.

However, she has put the question to me.

Are we all a pack of miserable sissy la la’s? Are we whining, self absorbed, pity party-ing heart attacks waiting to happen?

I’m going to leave this short and sweet. You can see my reply to my readers’ question in My Comments.

Other Parents are welcome to help enlighten Genevieve too. Or even if you aren’t a parent, take a stab at what you think. Thank you for participating.

Diabetes Productions Proudly Presents “Unhappy Feet.”

23 May, 2008 · Filed under By Kate, Diabetes Complications, Diagnosis day, Uncategorized · Tagged Diabetes Australia, Diagnosis day, Diabetes Australia Queensland, infections, long term diabetes complications, feet care, diabetic foot ulceration, amputation, peripheral neuropathy, shoes, adrenalin, splinters, feet injuries, podiatrist, correct toenail cutting, annual podiatrist checkup, daily feet examinations, blisters, fungal infections, towel drying feet, corns, callouses, orthotics, emergency, good f

Lance’s Dad and I have a reoccuring nightmare.

It has nothing to do with his love of Sci Fi flicks, or from disecting dead redback spiders.

Our nightmare is far, far worse than anything you get to see in an art department or in a special effects trailer on location of a horror movie.

It’s real.

It could affect our son.

We see live human evidence of it almost everytime we visit the Diabetes Outpatients Ward.

Severe Diabetic Foot Ulceration (photo taken before amputation.)

(Sorry…I had to start with the worst image first to keep your interest.)

This is such an overlooked issue, yet possibly the most sinister long term side effect of Diabetes.

Peripheral Neuropathy and Amputation.

Lance’s Dad and I both have our own fears for our son as he grows into an adult living with Type 1 Diabetes.

However this is one nightmare that we both share.

You see, our Happy Little Vegemite HATES shoes. Even as a baby, we have a photo of him, on his bouncer with his foot in in mouth trying to tear off his sock. If he had his way, he would roam the streets barefoot and fancyfree.

Lance has a shoe closet that would rival a Beckham offspring. He has different styles and funky coloured Nikes, Pumas, Filas. Canvas laceups, uggs, crocs, Spiderman light-up-when-you-walk sandals, thongs….you name it..he has it.

Last year, I presented a speech at an awards presentation. There, in the front row, was Lance, struggling, red faced and on the verge of a panic attack, trying to remove his offending footwear. (”They were suffocating my feet!!”) At the very best, sandals, uggs, and thongs are still high tolerance shoes for him.

I understand where this fear of being constricted comes from.

On Diagnosis Day, whilst drifting in and out of consciousness and in the firm grip of deadly DKA, Lance had to have a drip inserted into his hand. Except they put it in on a crooked angle. So they had to do it again. (His tiny body may have been lacking in insulin, but he certainly proved that he could crank up his adrenalin!!) His little legs were pinned down to an examination table to stop him from thrashing. His arms were held down, two doctors on each side, so that they could get a blood sample from other arm. His head was even held back by two nurses, to prevent any further chaos due to his furious determination to be released. His azure blue eyes penetrated mine, his face awash with confusion. I will never recover from that look of abandon, that, despite his hysteria, was clear for all to see. His mother who had lovingly held him and protected him for his first year on Earth, had suddenly handed him over to total strangers to hurt him and take away his freedom. Little did he know that I had no choice-these people saved his life.

(These memories are so painful, I had to stop typing momentarily and snuggle up beside my son, my ear pressed to his back, random tears soaking up in his sweet smelling pyjamas. I can still put my hand in his, and he will entwine his fingers with mine, even in the midst of slumber. I will fight to set you free from this my love.)

As a result of this, Lance still has issues with being being held too tightly, seatbelts and wearing restrictive clothing. Shoes are number one on the list of “Let me OUUUUUUUUUUT!”

The point of this story is that I often find Lance outside, frolicking wildly with his dog, with his feet bare. He will agree to come inside and put some form of protective footwear on, but only when asked.

He will climb the fence, and later come hobbling inside, tearfully acknowledging the splinters that he has newly aquired from chatting to My Neigbour. Even whilst I squeeze, remove and apply alcohol wipes to the affected area, it’s STILL not enough for him to remember for next time.

Today, I was absolutely exasperated when I discovered Lance teetering on the edge of the fence again, chatting to his friends who ride by daily. Shoeless.

After his recent discovery of long term complications, I told him to follow me to the PC. I googled “foot ulcers diabetes” and clicked on images. We both remained silent as we observed the gaping, festering holes in feet, toes barely hanging on by a thread, bones visible through the erosion of skin. We looked at each other knowingly. His eyes were like saucers, his mouth was slightly agasp. He gulped, and said to me, “These are adults’ feet. Look at my feet, Mum! I don’t have any holes in them! I’m careful! I know how to be responsible!”

However after he left the room, ten minutes later, I witnessed a scene that allowed me to exhale a sigh of relief. He was sitting on the sofa, climbing into a pair of socks, and strapping on his sandals. He then proceded to go outside. I hated showing him those images…Definitely a case of being “cruel” to be kind….

“People with diabetes are at risk of developing ulcerations and infections within their feet, which have the potential to require an amputation of the foot or leg. In fact, the most common reason a person with diabetes will require hospitalisation is for a foot complication. Even trivial or minor injuries to the foot have the potential to become very serious and threaten a limb.”

Despite Lance’s disdain for shoes, he has learnt to become very aware of good feet health whilst inside the home. He will always report the tiniest graze, or removal of top layer skin so that I can treat it immediately with antiseptic and cover it. (I have learnt that it’s beneficial to make extra fuss over feet injuries, I have even resorted to bandaging an area to psychologically entice Lance into understanding that feet injuries are something to be taken seriously, and that his feet are a very important priority when it comes to his overall wellbeing.)

I have had several debates with parents of other children who have Type 1 Diabetes about introducing feet care to them at an early age. Some have agreed and considered it to be a good preventive measure, others have seen it as just another burden to take on, and that their child was “too young” to worry about a procedure such as amputation.

Two years ago, I made an appointment at a podiatrist that specialised in Diabetic complications. Soon after, Lance had his first consultation with him, as I was concerned about a toenail that had been cut by a well meaning relative. (It was a little too “close” to the edge for my liking…) He also had a thorough examination of both feet, and had his toenails cut correctly.( I asked if he could demonstrate correct nail cutting techniques step-by-step, so that I could continue doing it the same way at home.) He commended me for bringing Lance to be examined, noting that if Diabetes Educators drove home the point of commencing meticulous feet care immediately after diagnosis, that so many tragic amputations in young adults living with Diabetes could be avoided.

Our podiatrist is on our health care team list-we see him annually.

His general advice for parents with children who have Type 1 Diabetes:

Examine your childs feet daily; on top, on the sole, between the toes and on the heel. Look for any cuts, blisters, grazes, discolouring or fungal infections.

Teach your child to dry in between their toes after showering, and have appropriate protective footwear at public pools/showers to avoid adding tinea or other fungal infections to the list of diabetic complications.

It may sound pedantic, and over the top, but a general rule of “shoes outside and socks inside” is doing your child the biggest favour.

Never treat corns, callouses or severe cuts yourself-ALWAYS SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE.

Non smoker, diabetic for 25 yearDiab insuline dependent for 13 years.
Left foot partial amputn 3 m25 years, insuline dnjjjjjjjj

” Diabetic ulcers are the most common foot injuries leading to lower extremity amputation. Family physicians have a pivotal role in the prevention or early diagnosis of diabetic foot complications. Management of the diabetic foot requires a thorough knowledge of the major risk factors for amputation, frequent routine evaluation and meticulous preventive maintenance.”

Visit Diabetes Australia or go to their website to investigate their advice on caring for your feet. They also have online stores in each state; Diabetes Australia Queensland (DAQ) have extensive orthotic merchandise as well as socks and feetcare products.

Looking after your child’s feet now can protect them from peripheral neuropathy in later life. Good feet care, good feetwear, and good control of glycaemic levels is helping your child to become aware that an important part of having Type 1 Diabetes means being responsible for looking after your feet.

If your child does have a serious foot injury, treat it as an Emergency. Tell the ambulance or the hospital staff immediately that your child has Type 1 Diabetes. Extra care will be taken to ensure that the best possible chance of complete healing will occur.

The current motto of the week in our house?

We love NEAT SWEET FEET.

Comments (9) »

A Big Box Of IDDM Goodies Arrives in OZ!!!!

22 May, 2008 · Filed under Uncategorized · Tagged glucometer, Albert, WaveSense Keynote, Trial, American diabetes products, blood sugar measurements in mmol/L, blood sugar measurements in md/dL, accuracy in glucometers

A month or so back, I received a very intriguing email from the ever charming Albert,

(Is this guy a sweetheart or what!!)

He kindly offered Lance the opportunity to particpate in the WaveSense Keynote Glucometer Trial.

Nothing EVER exciting like this happens in Diabetes land in Australia, so I put my hand up high, and let him know that we would be honoured to participate.

One small glitch….

The Keynote measures in md/dL, and we are millimollers. (mmol/L.)

I assured Albert that this would be fun to participate in, and that it would help Lance become bilingual in reading blood sugar measurements!!

So, this morning, we received a big square box all the way from Albert

Lance was in awe that it had travelled so far, and so quickly!!

Along with 2 glucometers, came hundreds of test strips…lancets, lancing devices, testing solutions, and even software to download Lance’s blood sugar levels.

The first reading was 260.

Lance, in panicked tones croaked, “But I don’t feel like I am 26!!”

(In fact, he was 14.6 mmol/L-not fantastic, but certainly better than 26!!!)

The information that Albert included certainly makes the product appear to be extremely accurate, which will be such a relief..I can often test Lance on one finger with another brand of meter and he will be 6.8mmol/L and, just for interests sake, I will test him again on a finger on the other hand, and come up with a slightly concerning 4.5mmol/L. That’s a huge variance in numbers-the difference from being hypo, or needing some extra carbs in fact.

I’ll post a photo tomorrow of Lance with all his new WaveSense toys! (He was excited like it was a parcel from Santa…made me a little sad that he was so elated to have a boxful of diabetes products….) However, I can certainly relate to the excitement after years of “same ol’ same ol’” with the small range of products that are available to us in this neck of the woods…

Thanks so much, Albert!!!!!!!!!!! It was so lovely of you to think of us as a good candidate for the trial!

(We’ll keep you posted.)

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A Touch Of Sugar?

15 May, 2008 · Filed under Uncategorized

I have just returned from getting Lance’s strips/lancets etc.

The pharmacy that I frequent know me extremely well, as they do Lance. The staff are practically like family, they know what type of glucometer we have, they will always stop to have a kind word regarding Lance’s health.

Today, I left wanting to be sick.

An obvious newbie stood behind the counter, staring at me, smiling so hard I could see the tendons in her neck stretching. I approached her in an overtly laidback manner, to try and allieviate her obvious anxiety,

“So, can I ask you about NDSS stuff?”

“Sure! I’ve just had a huge run through with a drug company rep. This will be good actually, help re-inforce what I have just learnt!’

I was so impressed with her glowing enthusiasm! She started entering Lance’s details into the computer.

As quick as a flash, the most senior of the counter staff sashayed hurriedly towards us, with a look of concern and pity on her face.

I was feeling really alarmed. What..is..going ..on..here?

“Ahhhh Jodie, no, no, this woman, no. She’s one of the ones’ with a little diabetic. I’ll handle her.”

GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR.

I stared her straight in the eye. I could feel rage rising upwards, similiar to the feeling of bringing up bile from the pit of ones’ stomach.

“I’d actually prefer Jodie to serve me today, thanks.”

(Poor Jodie..my silent fury had totally freaked her out…)

“Oh well it’s just best that she sees a transaction for the diabetics. Little ones with a touch of sugar are a bit different to the adults.”

Huh?

What does that sentence MEAN exactly?

Let’s look at it again.

“Little ones with a touch of sugar are a bit different to the adults.”

I was so angry that hot tears stung my eyelids. Maybe I was wildly hormonal, and I will read this in a few weeks and laugh, but today, my son’s condition being referred to as “a touch of sugar” and being treated as a huge problem was something that I really didn’t want to hear, considering that I had just dealt with a 2.1mmol/L hypo-(I personally think Lance was lower, as he couldn’t hold up his own bodyweight..) and was consequently late for my meeting with the Insulin Pump Rep. (She was kind enough not to comment on the strands of my hair that were cogealing together with carbonated sugar. Yep. Lance did a projectile lemonade spit at me, and I was unprepared. Really unprepared. Coulda sworn he swallowed it…but no…drenched my hair instead..)

As a result, I was just a touch frosty. I grabbed my strips. handed over the money and sauntered out.

Type 1 Diabetic.

Juvenile Diabetic.

Sugar Diabetic.

A Touch of Sugar.

“Diabetic-the worst kind.”

Little Diabetic.

I ache for my gorgeous son to be called just by the name I gave him, not recognised because of the fact he’s happens to have Type 1 Diabetes.

Some days I don’t care and laugh it off or roll my eyes, but today…I had had enough.

I had a touch of hatred towards Diabetes again today-everything about each minute of it has revolved around this condition.

Too tired to comment anymore.

A TOUCH OF SUGAR??? WHO SAYS THAT!!!!!

The Irony Behind Lance’s Future Insulin Pump.

15 May, 2008 · Filed under By Kate, Diabetes hope, Diafrustration, fundraising · Tagged Australian Government, expense, Federal Budget results 2008, fundraising for a pump, insulin pump, insulin pump grant fund, Lions Club, medtronic, Paediatric Endocrinologists, paradigm

Arg.

In all of the excitement of the spanking brand new Insulin Pump Grant Scheme that was announced yesterday, I clean forgot all about my meeting tomorrow with the State Rep for Medtronic regarding getting Lance’s new Paradigm meter.

How’s that for irony?

Two opportunities for an insulin pump in two days.

Anyway, she is going to bring a sample pump for me to have a play with, plus loads of info to lure and entice me even further, and no doubt dazzle me with a brilliant sales pitch. (The pump sells itself, really.) The Rep has been so enthusiastic about getting Lance started ASAP. She is travelling about 90 minutes to have this meeting, and I just know she is going to shatter me with some horrible news about the Insulin Pump Scheme. The last time I mentioned it to her, she was very quick to mention that if it did happen, it wouldn’t actually begin for 2 years…the pumps would be inferior to Medtronic’s stellar reputation…there would be a lot of paperwork and proof to present to an endocrinologist as to why Lance should receive a meter courtesy of the Australian Government…, and the saddest part of all, is that I know she’s probably right.

There is no way that we can wait another 2 years for a pump. I hate everyday that Lance’s blood sugar twinkles up and down like a pianist playing a concerto. Somehow, I think that we are going to have to just go ahead and fundraise this money. With the backing and support of the Lions Club, I know that we are going to have a relatively smooth feat in raising $7000. However, the irony of it all is niggling at me.

We see our Paediatric Endocrinologist on the 22nd of May. It will be good to ask his opinion and hear what he has to say. He is VERY pro-pump, and he will be delighted that Lance has the opportunity to start pumping ASAP.

I guess I’ll be deciding Lance’s future for him tomorrow.

All I know is that I want the very best for him, and I will resort to dressing as Ronald McDonald for Kids Parties to raise that damn cash. He HAS to have this-as delighted as I am that kids can start pumping in November, six months is a long time away in Diabetic time.

Bring on the frizzy red wig and the giant clown shoes.

I’m going to get my boy an insulin pump if it kills me.

Diabetes News

2008-11-09T02:32:00.000-08:00

Diabetes News

All that you need to know about Diabetes
Diabetes and a full life
Type2 Diabetes- A cause for concern
An aggressive approach towards Type2 diabetes
Relation between Protein and Diabetes
FDA to act tough on Diabetes drugs
Mental Health and Diabetes
America shows sharp increase in number of Diabetes Patients
Depression care must for Diabetics
Gastric Bypass, a solution for Diabetes?

Diabetic Recipes

2008-11-09T02:06:00.001-08:00

Diabetic Recipes

Some special recipes for diabetes patients :

1.Minstrony Soup

Ingredients:

Method:

Cabbage	-	115gm
Tomato	-	115gm
Big Onion	-	140gm
Carrot	-	115gm
Celery	-	10gm
Macaroni	-	55gm
Garlic	-	1pod
Salt & Pepper	-	to taste
Water	-	1litre
Oil	-	1tsp

Slice all vegetables into small pieces. Chop big onions and garlic finely. Cut the macaroni into ¹/₂inch pieces. Heat oil and sauté onion and garlic. When it is done, sauté again by adding vegetables. Pour the water and when it boils, add macaroni. Cook the vegetables and macaroni in a low flame. Serve hot.

Note : Vegetables can be used according to your choice.

2.Green Gram Dal Kichadi

Ingredients:

Method:

Green gram dal (lentil)	-	300gm
Rice	-	150gm
Cumin seeds	-	¹/₂tsp
Garam masala	-	³/₄tsp
Chilly powder	-	¹/₂tsp
Powdered cinnamon	-	a small piece
Powdered cardamom	-	3nos
Ginger	-	20gm
Big onion	-	60gm
Oil	-	4dsp
Salt	-	to taste

Clean green gram dal and rice and soak them separately. Heat 2dsp oil and saute the ingredients from 3 to 7. Add the rice and dal into it and fry them lightly. Cook well by adding double the quantity of water and salt to taste till done.

Saute onion and ginger in 2dsp oil till reddish brown and add this to the kichadi. Stir well.

3.Ragi Chappathi

Ingredients:

Method:

Ragi flour	-	150gm
Salt	-	to taste

Mix ragi flour with warm water and salt and make a dough. Take small balls from the dough and roll it into flat rounds. Cook the chappathi in a pan turning both sides

4.Gram Chaat

Ingredients:

Method:

Roasted bengal gram or chick peas	-	1/2 cup
Sprouted green gram	-	1 cup
Tomato chopped	-	1
Onion chopped	-	1
Coriander leaves finely chopped	-	1 tsp.
Green chilli finely chopped	-	1
Ginger grated	-	1/2 tsp.
Salt	-	to taste
Lemon juice	-	to taste

Boil sprouts in water till soft but not soggy. Drain and chill well. Add all ingredients, and stir well. Add a few pinches chaat masala if desired.

Serve cold with tea or coffee.

5.Carrot chutney

Ingredients:

Method:

Grated carrots	-	200 g
Grated coconut	-	2 tbsp
Coriander leaves	-	1 bunch (chopped)
Green chillies	-	4
Salt	-	to taste
Pepper powder	-	to taste
Lemon juice	-	1 tsp

Grind all the ingredients to a smooth paste and serve.

6.Bitter Gourd dishes

Ingredients:

Method:

Bitter gourd (cut into pieces)	-	1 cup
Cooking oil	-	1 tbsp
Mustard seeds	-	1 tsp
Methi (fenugreek seeds)	-	¼ tsp
Red chilli	-	2 (halved)
Curry leaves	-	few sprigs
Turmeric powder	-	½ tsp
Salt	-	to taste
Onion (thinly sliced)	-	1 cup
Coriander powder	-	2 tsp
Chilli powder	-	1 tsp
Tamarind juice	-	½ cup
Tomato	-	1

Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds, methi, red chillies and curry leaves. When the mustard splutters, add the coriander, chilli, turmeric powders. Add the onion. Saute till the onions turn brown.

Add the bitter gourd pieces. Sauté for a few more minutes. Add the tamarind juice, salt and the tomato pieces. Close the pan and cook until the vegetables are tender and the gravy thickens.

7.Bitter Gourd dishes II

Ingredients:

Method:

Bitter melon	-	1/2 kg
Salt	-	2 tsp
Turmeric powder	-	1/2 tsp.
Mustard	-	1/2 tsp
Red chilli powder	-	1 tsp.
Asafoetida	-	3/4 tsp

Cut bitter-melon into fine pieces. Add salt, turmeric powder and leave it for 15 min.Heat 6 tsp of oil in a frying pan, add mustard seeds and when it pops, add 3/4 tsp asafoetida. Squeeze out the water from the bitter-melon and add it to the oil. Add red chilli powder and fry well until fully cooked.

8.Banana-Coconut Bread

Ingredients:

Method:

Whole wheat flour, divided	-	1-1/2 cup
Salt	-	1/2 tsp
Unsweetened, shredded coconut	-	1/2 cup
Mashed banana	-	1 cup
Baking powder	-	2 tsp
Vegetable oil	-	3 tbsp
Baking soda	-	1/2 tsp
Honey	-	1 tbsp

Mix together 1-1/4 cups of flour, coconut, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a bowl. Combine banana, oil and honey. Stir into flour mixture quickly (gently) until combined. Add part of the remaining 1/4 cup flour if needed. Batter will be lumpy.

Spread batter evenly in a lightly greased (and/or waxed paper lined) 8x4-inch loaf pan. Bake at 350F about 45 minutes until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 min in pan. Turn out of pan, cool completely on rack. Wrap in waxed paper and store overnight before slicing.

Care and Diet

2008-11-09T02:05:00.001-08:00

Care and Diet

Home remedies

Healthy routine helps to minimize the risk of developing complications of diabetes. One can keep blood glucose levels normal by a healthy diet

and maintaining physical fitness. Eating right, controlling your weight and exercising regularly will help you to control sugar level.

Free Software Foundation</a>, Inc. <br> Gnash comes with NO WARRANTY, to the extent permitted by law. You may redistribute copies of Gnash under the terms of the <a href="http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl.html">GNU General Public License</a>. For more information about Gnash, see <a href="http://www.gnu.org/software/gnash/"> http://www.gnu.org/software/gnash</a>. Compatible Shockwave Flash 8.0 r99.&u_h=768&u_w=1024&u_ah=745&u_aw=1024&u_cd=24&u_tz=330&u_his=1&u_java=true&u_nplug=5&u_nmime=28" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" vspace="0" hspace="0" allowtransparency="true" scrolling="no">

Excess consumption of alcohol is harmful as it may lower blood glucose levels and cause weight gain. Smoking is very harmful to diabetes patients, because it increases the risk of long-term complications. Foot care is important because diabetes can increase the risk of skin infections and ulcers on the feet. You must clean your feet daily and if a sore develop on your feet, consult the doctor promptly. Diabetes patients have an increased risk of high blood pressure, so regular monitoring is important.

Low-fat, vegetarian diets

are ideal for diabetics. In most cases, diabetics can manage their disease much better with a food plan that gets most of its calories from complex carbohydrates while minimizing fats.

Diet for Diabetes :

With a near-vegetarian diet and exercise program, one can maintain their sugar levels with out taking any medications. Ideal diet program

for a diabetic is a low fat vegetarian diet, reducing meats, high-fat dairy products, and oils. At the same time increasing grains, legumes, and vegetables.

Have your meals at regular timings and limit your overall intake.
Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Soluble fibers mainly found in fruits, vegetables and some seeds are good for diabetics. They reduce or slow down the absorption of glucose from the intestines.
Diabetes patients should include leafy vegetables, vegetable soups and juices in their diet. Vegetables like tomato, cucumber, bitter gourd, carrot, cooked kidney beans, pumpkin, snake gourd, beans, cabbage, lady finger, brinjal, onion, spinach, inner part of banana stem, drum sticks etc. are good for diabetes. Fruits and fruit juices of apple, guava, lemon etc. are good. Avoid fruits like banana, mango, grapes, papaya, jack fruit etc. and vegetables like potato, tapioca, sweet potato etc. containing lot of carbohydrates.
Eat more starches such as bread, cereal, and starchy vegetables. Aim for six servings a day or more.
Eat sugars, sweets and fat and fat-fried items in moderation.
It is better to avoid cakes, jaggery, honey, ghee, butter, cool drinks, biscuits, dried fruits like badam and excess use of oil while cooking.

Home Remedies

Some home remedies help to regulate the blood sugar level. You can try out some of these remedies which compliment along with the diet for diabetics and regular exercises to lower blood sugar levels and protect from diabetes related damages.

Have

1 litre of cinnamon water daily. Cinnamon contains a chemical to help utilize blood sugar naturally in your body. Add 3 table spoon of cinnamon to 1 litre of boiling water. Simmer for 20 minutes in a low flame, then strain the mixture.
Fresh or dried bitter gourd (bitter melon) or 2 ounces of its juice every day. Bitter melon increases the insulin secreting cells in the pancreas and daily intake of juice reduces the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.
Wild (Black) cumin boiled in water regularly.
Equal quantities of turmeric powder and dried gooseberry powder with honey or drink equal quantities of gooseberry juice and fresh turmeric juice in an empty stomach regularly.
Regularly, the juice of crushed 'touch me not' with its roots.
First thing in the morning, have the juice of crushed fish-berry (amruth) soaked in water for a day.
Make coffee with powdered fried fenugreek and wheat, taken in equal quantities.
Garlic every day early in the morning in an empty stomach.
Tender curry leaves (fresh) twice a day.
Crush guava leaves, a handful and 3 grams of cumin together. Boil with one glass of water and make it half.
Drink 8 glass of water in the morning and walk for one hour.
The leaves of gymnema sylvestre (Gurmur- a climbing vine), a traditional Ayurvedic medicine for diabetics, significantly reduces the metabolic effects of sugar by preventing the intestines from absorbing the sugar molecules during the process of digestion. Add 3 quarters of gymnema powder to one glass of boiling water, strain and drink it warm twice a day, 1 hour before breakfast and 1 hour before dinner for best results. The leaves can also be ground and had. It has the property of blocking sugary taste and thus curbs the craving for sweet things.

When Is the Best Time To Exercise?

Glucose Control - Exercise

2008-11-09T02:04:00.001-08:00

Glucose Control - Exercise

How to start exercising | How often should you exercise? | What about food and insulin? | When is exercise a problem? | Insulin reaction and exercise

Sometimes, it may seem easier to pop a pill or even take a shot than to put on your walking shoes and hit the trail. But the truth is that exercise, in combination with a healthy diet, is one of the best things you can do to take care of yourself if you have diabetes.

Why exercise?

Exercise burns calories, which will help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Regular exercise can help your body respond to insulin and is known to be effective in managing blood glucose. Exercise can lower blood glucose and possibly reduce the amount of medication you need to treat diabetes, or even eliminate the need for medication.

Exercise can improve your circulation, especially in your arms and legs, where people with diabetes can have problems.

Exercise can help reduce your cholesterol and high blood pressure. High cholesterol and high blood pressure can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

Exercise helps reduce stress, which can raise your glucose level.

It can lower your risk for heart disease, reduce your cholesterol levels and your blood pressure.

In some people, exercise combined with a meal plan, can control Type 2 Diabetes without the need for medications.

How to start exercising

If you're out of shape or have recently been diagnosed as having diabetes, see your doctor before you begin an exercise program. Your doctor can tell you about the kinds of exercise that are good for you depending on how well your diabetes is controlled and any complications or other conditions you may have. Here are some tips for starting:

If you're planning to walk or jog, be sure your shoes fit well and are designed for the activity you have in mind. Be alert for blisters. Wear new shoes for a bit each day until they're comfortable and not as likely to cause blisters. Remember, always wear socks.

Start slowly with a low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, or biking.

Build up the time you spend exercising gradually. If you have to, start with five minutes and add a bit of time each day.

Always wear an ID tag indicating that you have diabetes to insure proper treatment in case there's a problem when you're exercising or you have an injury.

Avoid lifting very heavy weights as a precaution against sudden high blood pressure.

If you have foot problems, consider swimming or biking, which is easier on the feet than jogging.

Stretch for five minutes before and after your workout regardless of how intense you plan to exercise.

How often should you exercise?

Try to exercise at the same time every day for the same duration. This will help control your blood sugar. Exercise at least three times a week for about 30 to 45 minutes.

What about food and insulin?

If you plan to exercise more than an hour after eating, it's a good idea to have a snack. Generally, it's good to have a high-carbohydrate snack such as six ounces of fruit juice or half of a plain bbagel.
If you're doing heavy exercise such as aerobics, running or handball, you may need to eat a bit more such as a half of a meat sandwich and a cup of milk.

If you haven't eaten for over an hour or if your blood sugar is less than 100 to 120, eat or drink something like an apple or a glass of milk before you exercise. Carry a snack with you in case of low blood sugar.

If you use insulin, exercise after eating, not before. Test your blood sugar before, during and after exercising. Don't exercise when your blood sugar is more than 240.

If you're not an insulin user, test your blood sugar before and after exercising if you take pills for diabetes.

When is exercise a problem?

If your blood sugar level is over 300 mg/dl, if you are sick, short of breath, have ketones in your urine or are experiencing any tingling, pain or numbness in your legs, don't exercise. Also if your medication is peaking, it's better not to exercise.

Insulin reaction and exercise

Treat it when you feel it. Don't wait. Be sure you have some raisins or candy on hand to raise your blood glucose level.

Related information Hypoglycemia | Emergency products

Related articles

How to Get the Most Out of Exercising - Without Doing Yourself Harm

The Added Benefit of Exercise in People with Diabetes

Association Boosts Fitness for People with Diabetes

A Little Attitude Adjustment Will Enhance Your Fitness Program

A Good Fitness Program Needs Realistic Expectations - Suit Yourself

Your Fitness Program Reality Check: Access and Performance

Staying Motivated through the Maintenance Phase of Your Exercise Program

Some Reminders for Athletes

Which Type of Exercise is Best?

Eating for Exercise

Adjusting Insulin Dose for Exercise

Diet and Exercise CAN Prevent or Delay Diabetes

Multi-Study Analysis Confirms that Exercise Reduces HbA1c

Keep Your HbA1c Levels from Rising in Winter

Adding Variety to Your Daily Walk

Leg Cramps Part 1 - How to Prevent Them

Leg Cramps Part 2 - How to Relieve Them

Intensive Exercise Improves Carbohydrate Metabolism

Safety Tips for Hiking and Camping

Is Fear Keeping You From Swimming?

Use a Pedometer to Measure Your Daily Activity

Tips for Safe Exercising

Diabetes Exercise Tips

2008-11-09T02:02:00.000-08:00

Diabetes Exercise Tips

An article from the January 20, 2003 edition of Newsweek Magazine said that the risk of getting diabetes is 30% lower with three hours per week of brisk walking. Of course these diabetes and exercise ideas can also reduce your need for medication if you already have diabetes and can help to keep your blood sugar under control. Exercise also helps to prevent heart disease.

Here are some tips to get you started or to improve an existing diabetes exercise program. ** See the note at the bottom of the page for cautions.

Eight Tips for a Diabetes Exercise and Walking Program to Help Prevent or Control the Disease

Find a friend or relative to be your diabetes exercise buddy. I’ve been hiking 3-5 miles a day for over 20 years because I meet a friend every weekday morning. I know she expects me to be there, so I always show up. I’d feel really guilty if I didn’t make it to her house. Having an “exercise buddy” really works!
Start your diabetes exercise program slowly and add a little more walking time each week. Often what stops people from really developing an exercise habit, is that they do too much and get tired and sore. That leads them to stop exercising. We don’t want that to happen to you!
Walk at least half an hour per day - did you know that walking significantly lowers blood pressure as well as blood sugar? You can test this for yourself at home. Before you walk, check your blood pressure and blood glucose levels. Check them again after your walk and see how many points lower they are. Keep a diary to remind you how much a diabetes and exercise practice helps to keep you healthy. * See the note below before starting a new exercise program.
Try doing your main exercise in the morning. That way your body is energized and your metabolism revved up and ready to go for the day ahead!
Once you've been doing your diabetes exercise program for awhile, if you walk on a flat surface, you can get an extra upper body work out, by using walking or ski poles! Plus, they help keep you balanced and safe so you’re less likely to fall. They also can help you with your balance in wet or snowy weather. Don’t try this tip unless you already have been walking regularly, it’s strenuous! See * below.
Hike...find a park, open space or even your city streets with some hills and walk up and down the hills. The best diabetes exercise you can do is hill walking. It's an excellent cardiovascular work out. Remember to start gradually and work up to longer walks, then steeper hills over time. See * below
Another great diabetes exercise tip is to use light weights while walking - you’d be amazed at how strong your arms and upper back will get when you carry ½ or 1 pound weights on your walks. *See note below about consulting your doctor before doing this, especially if you have pain in your arms or hands.
Just think, the best diabetes exercise is the easiest, just walk out your door and enjoy discovering all sorts of interesting things right in your neighborhood. Be sure you have comfortable shoes that fit well and give your feet proper support.

*Never start a new exercise program without consulting either your physician or another expert who can evaluate your condition and any limitations. Take it easy at first and build up to longer and longer exercise periods over time.

Take control of your life!

2008-11-09T02:01:00.000-08:00

Take control of your life!

People who follow our detailed program can expect to:*

	Develop new lifestyle habits that will add many years to their lives.
	Maintain their A1C blood sugar level within recommended guidelines.
	Lose a significant amount of weight.
	Lower the amount of medications that they must take to control their diabetes.
	Increase their HDL cholesterol level.
	Decrease their overall and LDL cholesterol levels.
	Feel a lot happier because they have taken control of their health and their life.
	Develop a long-term program to keep their weight and their diabetes under control.

Note: We have suspended our formal program. You may access our diabetes information for free strictly at your own risk by clicking here. We hope you find the information useful, and wish you the best controlling your diabetes.

Diabetes and Insulin

2008-11-09T01:59:00.001-08:00

Diabetes and Insulin

The failure to make insulin or insufficiency of insulin is termed as Diabetes mellitus. Insulin is a natural hormone which controls the level of the sugar glucose in the blood. Insulin allows cells to use glucose for energy. Cells cannot utilize glucose without insulin. Excess glucose builds up in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of diabetes. Glucose is the body's primary source of fuel. Insulin enables the body cells to take glucose from the bloodstream. The cells might use glucose for production of energy if required, or it is sent to the liver to preserve it, in the form of glycogen.

Functions of Insulin

In addition to its role of regulating glucose metabolism, insulin also

Stimulates lipogenesis
Diminishes lipolysis
Increases amino acid transport into cells
Modulates transcription
Altering the cell content of numerous mRNAs
Stimulates growth
DNA synthesis
Cell replication

Diabetes Insulin Classification

Diabetes and Insulin Analogs

Insulin Injection Devices

Diabetes Treatment and Insulin Problems

Insulin Syringes

Insulin Pump

Diabetes Medications

2008-11-09T01:58:00.000-08:00

Diabetes Medications

When diet, exercise and ideal body weight aren’t enough to maintain normal blood sugar level, you may need to start medication. Medications used to treat diabetes include insulin too. Usually, people with Type 1 diabetes don't use oral medications. Diabetes Medications work best in people with Type 2 diabetes who are having high blood sugar for less than ten years with normal weight or obesity. Some people who begin treatment with oral medications eventually need to take insulin. Unfortunately, insulin cannot be taken in pills form because enzymes in your stomach alter it, which makes it ineffective. Hence, insulin is taken with insulin syringe or insulin pump.

Insulin and oral diabetes medications deliberately work to lower your blood sugar. In certain cases medications taken for other conditions may affect glucose levels. Blood sugar levels may rise due to corticosteroids. Thiazides medications are used to control high blood pressure and niacin is used to lower high cholesterol. Your doctor has to change your diabetes treatment, if you need to take certain high blood pressure medications.

Number of drug options exists in market for treating type 2 diabetes, including:

Sulfonylureas

Biguanides

Alpha glucosidase Inhibitors

Thiazolidinediones

Meglitinides

Exercise During Diabetes

2008-11-09T01:56:00.001-08:00

Exercise During Diabetes
Exercise promotes muscular activity and burns sugar. Therefore, you may need a reduction in the dose of table or insulin. Exercise during diabetes also promotes good circulation and maintains weight.

Regular exercise, the ½ hr – 1 hr of brisk walking improves the effect of insulin.

All diabetes patients need to exercise, but the type and the amount will vary for each individual. Most individuals would benefit from long walks (1.2-1.8 mi./day), gardening, walking to office or shopping complex, cycling short distances, or playing golf.

If you are taking insulin you will find that increasing your level of regular exercise may cause a significant fall in your blood glucose, sometimes producing hypoglycemia. You may therefore need to balance your food and insulin dose. If your type of exercise lasts longer e.g. badminton/tennis playing, you need to take sugar or fruit juice at regular intervals. Discuss this with your dietician or diabetes nurse educator.

If you are on tablets, you can perform extra exercise without worry of experiencing hypoglycemia.

If you are overweight and your diabetes is controlled alone, low blood glucose would not occur with an increase in amount of exercise.

The diagnosis of ‘Diabetes’ need not scare you to give up the sports you like. Many people with diabetes have excelled in highly competitive sports.

Symptoms of Diabetes

2008-11-09T01:55:00.000-08:00

Symptoms of Diabetes

In both types of diabetes, signs and symptoms are more likely to be similar as the blood sugar is high, either due to less or no production of insulin, or insulin resistance. In any case, if there is inadequate glucose in the cells, it is identifiable through certain signs and symptoms. These symptoms are quickly relieved once the Diabetes is treated and also reduce the chances of developing serious health problems.

Diabetes Type 1:

In type 1, the pancreas stop producing insulin due to autuimmune response or possibly viral attack on pancreas. In absence of insulin, body cells don’t get the required glucose for producing ATP (Adenosin Triphosphate) units which results into primary symptom in the form of nausea and vomiting. In later stage, which leads to ketoacidosis, the body starts breaking down the muscle tissue and fat for producing energy hence, causing fast weight loss. Dehydration is also usually observed due to electrolyte disturbance. In advanced stages, coma and death is witnessed.

Diabetes Type 2:

Increased fatigue : Due to inefficiency of the cell to metabolize glucose, reserve fat of body is metabolized to gain energy. When fat is broken down in the body, it uses more energy as compared to glucose, hence body goes in negative calorie effect, which results in fatigue.
Polydipsia : As the concentration of glucose increases in the blood, brain receives signal for diluting it and, in its counteraction we feel thirsty.
Polyuria: Increase in urine production is due to excess glucose present in body. Body gets rid of the extra sugar in the blood by excreting it through urine. This leads to dehydration because along with the sugar, a large amount of water is excreted out of the body.
Polyphegia : The hormone insulin is also responsible for stimulating hunger. In order to cope up with high sugar levels in blood, body produces insulin which leads to increased hunger.
Weight flactuation : Factors like loss of water (polyuria), glucosuria , metabolism of body fat and protein may lead to weight loss. Few cases may show weight gain due to increased appetite.
Blurry vision : Hyperosmolar hyperglycemia nonketotic syndrome is the condition when body fluid is pulled out of tissues including lenses of the eye, which affects its ability to focus, resulting blurry vision.
Irritability : It is a sign of high blood sugar because of the inefficient glucose supply to the brain and other body organs, which makes us feel tired and uneasy.
Infections : The body gives few signals whenever there is fluctuation in blood sugar (due to suppression of immune system) by frequent skin infections like fungal or bacterial or UTI (urinary tract infection).
Poor wound healing : High blood sugar resists the flourishing of WBC, (white blood cell) which are responsible for body immune system. When these cells do not function accordingly, wound healing is not at good pace. Secondly, long standing diabetes leads to thickening of blood vessels which affect proper circulation of blood in different body parts.

Diabetic Ulcer Care and Healing

2008-11-09T01:54:00.000-08:00

ll-natural silver oxide cream prevents infection and provides fast healing of diabetic ulcers & sores

The patented Electron-Active™ Silver Oxide in Terrasil™ Cream kills bacteria to prevent infection and increases blood flow to the wound site to promote rapid healing of ulcers, including diabetic foot and leg ulcers.

Page Contents

An Overview of Diabetic Ulcers

An ulcer on the skin is where an area of skin has broken down and you can see the underlying tissue. Most skin ulcers occur on the lower legs or feet. Often, these are diabetic ulcers. The skin normally heals quickly if it is cut. However, in some people with diabetes the skin on the feet does not heal so well and is prone to develop an ulcer. This can be even after a mild injury such as stepping on a small stone in your bare feet. Ulcers progress in four stages, as classified by the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) in the United States. Ulcers are marked by a breakdown of the tissue in ulcerated area, high risk of infection, and a LONG healing time.

Diabetic Leg and Foot Ulcer Pictures


Stage 1 Leg Ulcer	Stage 2 Leg Ulcer

Stage 2-3 Foot Ulcer	Stage 3-4 Foot Ulcer

Importance of Rapid Ulcer Care and Healing

With each stage that that a diabetic leg ulcer or foot ulcer progresses to, skin becomes more and more prone to infection. Necrosis (the erratic death of tissue) creates a breeding ground for bacteria. Infection is one of the greatest delays in the healing of a diabetic leg or foot ulcer. Preventing infection is a key step to the treatment of all wounds, sores and ulcers. Guidance by a medical professional can be essential.

Terrasil Cream Kills Bacteria Up to 40 Times Faster

Terrasil is unsurpassed in its healing power. Several patents have been awarded for Terrasil's Electron-Active™ Silver Oxide. Silver and oxygen are two of earth's strongest natural germ killers.

For thousands of years, Silver has been used to control the growth of germs. Extensive research in recent years has documented that even the most aggressive strains of bacteria are unable to resist silver's natural ability to interrupt a bacteria’s ability to form chemical bonds, which are essential to its survival. These bonds are integral to the cell’s physical structure, so bacteria in the presence of silver essentially falls apart. Cells in humans and other animals have thick walls and are not disturbed by silver.

The Electron-Active™ Silver Oxide compound brings Silver and Oxygen together in a single molecule, which has been estimated to be up to 40 times more potent than simple silver or oxygen alone. So Terrasil can kill the underlying causes of infection faster (and safer) than anything else on the market.

Listen to a customer's experience using Terrasil to heal his wife's leg ulcer.


Available in 14-gram or 44-gram jars, starting at just $24

New Terrasil MAX formula has 3x the silver oxide -
for more serious bedsores

Terrasil is Formulated to Heal Ulcers FAST

The patented Electron-Active™ Silver Oxide and other ingredients in Terrasil promote rapid healing. When applied at any stage of an open ulcer, Terrasil immediately begins the healing process.

1. HEALS THE ULCERS BY FEEDING THE SKIN

Electron-Active™ Silver Oxide promotes the growth of new healthy skin cells in three ways: a) An elevation in oxygen fosters the growth of tiny blood vessels that funnel in important nutrients and keeps existing blood vessels open. b) Oxygen also helps produce collagen, the main wound-repairing connective tissue in skin. c) Electron-Active™ Silver Oxide releases subtle electrical energy at the wound site, which studies have shown stimulates the growth of new cellular tissue.

2. PREVENTS SCARRING

Because Terrasil stimulates rapid growth of new skin tissue, scarring can be dramatically reduced or eliminated.

3. REDUCES INFLAMMATION, ITCHING AND DISCOMFORT

In addition to the Silver Oxide, other natural ingredients in Terrasil (Jojoba, Organic Beeswax and Essential Oil plant extracts) provide soothing relief on contact so the wound inflammation, pain and discomfort can be quickly reduced. Each of these natural ingredients have long histories of providing outstanding benefits in skin care.

4. PREVENTS INFECTION

The Electron-Active™ Silver Oxide kills bacteria on contact so your foot or leg ulcer can begin to heal faster. Extensive research has shown that Silver and Oxygen are two of earth's strongest natural germ killers. The Patented Silver Oxide combines these two powerful elements in a single molecule.

The Most Effective Ingredients

Why put harsh chemicals and synthetic drugs on your sensitive skin? Terrasil combines only the finest all-natural ingredients to soothe and protect your skin.

Silver has been known for thousands of years as one of earth's strongest natural germ-killers. The silver in Terrasil is substantially more powerful than common silver so it stops infection fast. This is an essential first step in healing ulcers.
Oxygen stimulates the flow of blood to the wound site, bringing life-giving nutrients that promote the rapid growth of new skin cells, closing up open leg and foot ulcers and preventing scarring. Several important studies have documented the important role of oxygen in wound healing.
Jojoba oil (pronounced ho-ho-ba) is an outstanding moisturizer that reduces itching fast.
Organic Beeswax in Terrasil reduces inflammation and provides soothing relief for open wounds.
Essential oil plant extracts remove toxins and speed healing.


Available in 14-gram or 44-gram jars, starting at just $24

New Terrasil MAX formula has 3x the silver oxide -
for more serious wounds

Clinically Tested and Doctor Recommended

Clinically tested and doctor recommended, non-prescription Terrasil goes to work immediately to healing diabetic leg and foot ulcers. Two studies each demonstrated that Terrasil begins to produce visible improvement within 1-2 days.

Below is an artist's illustration of the Silver Oxide molecules (blue specks) going after the bacteria that can cause infection. Upon contact, the Patented Electron-Active™ Silver Oxide molecules begin neutralizing these germs so your skin can begin returning to normal.

Tested for Safety

The Electron-Active™ Silver Oxide has undergone extensive testing to determine its safety for human use, as well as its effectiveness killing germs. Testing was performed by 14 independent laboratories, which concluded its safety. In addition, the US EPA also found the silver oxide to be entirely safe for continuous exposure to skin.

How to Use Terrasil Cream for Healing Diabetic Leg and Foot Ulcers

Clean the ulcer well. Repeat at least once daily, removing dead tissue if possible.
Apply a moderate amount directly into the affected area. If the ulcer is in an early stage and not deep, rub Terrasil in until it disappears. It is generally quite safe to use Terrasil in open wounds. Continue three or more times daily until the ulcer is completely healed.
Use as much of the cream as needed. For deep or large ulcers several jars of Terrasil may be needed.
After applying the cream, cover with a sterile gauze or bandage.
Goes on smooth and begins to work right away.
Safe and non-irritating.
Can be used on all skin types, for all ages and at any stage of ulcer.
Read general precautions.

NO Dangerous Chemicals

Terrasil has NO reported side effects, so it can be used safely with confidence.
NO CHEMICALS. NO PARABENS. NO STEROIDS. NOTHING ARTIFICIAL.
Germs can NOT develop resistance to Terrasil, so it will work every time you need it.
Will not dry out your skin.

People Worldwide Trust Terrasil

With thousands of customers worldwide, feedback from individuals and doctors strongly suggest that the combination of ingredients in Terrasil supports the body’s ability to successfully heal wounds FAST. And in spite of a RISK FREE 30-DAY GUARANTEE, less than 1% of customers ask for a refund.

Don't suffer another day. Get Terrasil and start healing today!

Fall Special - FREE SHIPPING** (USPS Mail), or FREE 3rd Product ** with 2+ Purchased, or FREE FedEx Upgrade (US) with 3+ Purchased . . . . . .


Available in 14-gram or 44-gram jars, starting at just $24

New Terrasil MAX formula has 3x the silver oxide -
for more serious wounds

Hypertension

2008-11-09T01:46:00.000-08:00

High Blood Pressure

INFORMATION:

What is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure (also called: HBP, HTN, Hypertension) is an elevated pressure in our arteries. Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Each time your heart beats, it pumps out blood into the arteries. Your blood pressure is highest when your heart beats, pumping the blood. This is called systolic pressure. When your heart is at rest, between beats, your blood pressure falls. This is the diastolic pressure.

Your blood pressure reading uses these two numbers, the systolic and diastolic pressures. Usually they are written one above or before the other. A reading of

120/80 or lower is normal blood pressure
140/90 or higher is high blood pressure
120 and 139 for the top number or between 80 and 89 for the bottom number is pre-hypertension

High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, but it can cause serious problems such as stroke, heart failure, heart attack and kidney failure. You can control high blood pressure through healthy lifestyle habits and taking medicines, if needed.*

Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine

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