Diabetes and teenagers

[Soxwasher]

Does anyone have a diabetic teenager? Mine is doing fine but it is a constant strain on us all as a family. Would love to hear from anyone out there!

Haven't got one, but I am one (well, not a teenager). And I used to work for Diabetes UK too. So I can begin to empathise. Is there anyone else out there??

Good to hear from you - did you develop it as a child - how did your teenage years feel?

When I was 19, first week at university, not great timing... So I didn't really experience the big loss of control most people go through when they are teenagers. But I did work with a lot of paediatricians whilst at Diabetes UK so could probably help you with any questions. Definitely the hardest thing so far has been being pregnant. I worked so hard!! Totally worth it, but I was doing 10 blood tests a day the whole way through & taking huge amounts of insulin. Not sure what else to say, but it's nice to talk to someone who kind of understands. My mum still worries about my diabetes & I'm 27 now; she used to travel 200 miles to come to my appointments with me - maybe I'll ask her again. How long has you dd/ds had diabetes?

Hi Soxwasher and Hoxtonchick! I've been diabetic since the age of 3 so I guess I can talk about most aspects of it! What do you find the biggest area of strain on you as a family, Soxwasher? Perhaps I could give you some advice if you want?

Stangely, though, hoxtonchick - I needed less insulin when I was pregnant!

Lucky you, MandyD! I have MODY which is a rare genetic form of diabetes. I was spectacularly insulin resistant when pg - to the extent of taking 1000s of units a day. This was not my idea of fun, especially with a needle phobic dp who can't watch me injecting. Still, I was proud of myself when ds was born weighing 7lb10. And I have to say my control, which was great when I was pg, has rather drifted since (& ds is now 14 months). Must start gearing up to try for number 2 later this year.

Glad to find someone else with diabetes on mumsnet. Though quite often I don't want to talk about it at all!

Our dd is now nearly 14 and she has had diabetes for 3+ years. She copes really well and is very motivated at the mo - she keeps her control really well. I just find it a big strain because i think we all suffer from heaps of guilt - or at least I do - I worry if her b/s is high that I fed her too much or that her snacks are boring or that I have been to strict with her etc etc. but the consultant has said she is doing great and that is such a relief. great to ehar about your pregnancies - all that is a concern for the future!!!

Sorry to be so thick - but what are the symptoms? My GP has just sent my test results away for Diabetes ( amongst other things ) just wondered it this could be me ?
Thanks

There aer two types of diabetes. Type 1 (insulin- dependent): symptoms are thirst, frequent peeing, loss of weight - but if you had that your doctor could tell by doing a urine test on the spot so I would think it unlikely. Type 2 is a bit different because you still produce some insulin yourself just not enough - i'm not sure of all symptoms for this. Hope it goes OK.