Log-In | Join Now | Sitemap Email this Page
EMAIL 		Print this Page
PRINT 		12 14 16
TEXT SIZE
How do I go about get
Diabetes Questions & Answers
Your diabetes questions answered by our Experts and Community


Can't find the answer you are looking for?
Ask a new question

The Question

06/22/09 11:02 AM

"How do I go about getting some expert help for my mother in law that has type II diabetes? "
Asked By: jlanderson  
Category: Weight Issues

Background Info Hide
She is seeing a general practioner that is not doing her any favors....(my opinion). She is about 80 - 100 pounds overweight and is on two types of oral medication. She is 64. Very lethargic. Very much looking at the medication to be the problem of her weight, etc. With some help, I believe that she could be medication free. She takes medication so that she eats so that she takes medicine......A vicious cycle that does nothing for her but gain weight. She feels helpless and thinks that she is doing all that she can with this disease......I do not believe that this is correct. Can you help me find someone that she will trust in the Omaha, NE area that can be an educator, dietitian, and friend that she can trust to help her manage this disease? She will also require accountability. Please help. Jamie

Expert Answers (2)

06/23/09 11:09 AM

Hi Jamie - Have you tried using our Diabetes Locator? You can go here to find all sorts of links to various databases that you can search by state. This is a great way to find professionals in all sorts of fields but if our experts here have any more suggestions, I am sure they will chime in.

Good health to you and your mother-in-law!

Answered By: Monica Dennis
Accreditations: dLife Senior Editor
Sources Show
06/23/09 03:31 PM

Hi jlanderson,

I agree that you should use the diabetes locator to find resources in your state. I would also look at the tabs on the left hand side of the dlife website, such as the type 2 diabetes and healthy eating tabs.

Your mother-in-law's weight gain may be attributable to various factors. Some diabetes medication side effects may contribute to weight gain, while others have no effect on weight at all.

Some people who make significant changes to their diet and exercise habits may be able to come off diabetes medication, but others who make similar changes may not be able to come off of them. Diabetes medication requirements are different from person to person and checking one's blood sugar at home can help you see if changes in diet, exercise, or diabetes medication are needed.

First, help your mother-in-law evaluate her eating habits ( how much and how often she eats in addition to whether or not she is physically active).

Secondly, go to the doctor's office prepared with questions to ask such as: how does this medication work, what are the side effects, and what are other options to this medication are there?

Lastly, if you still need more guidance speak with your mother-in-laws general practitioner about a referral to a diabetes specialist like an endocrinologist in your area.

Answered By: Christina Persaud
Accreditations: MPH, RD, CDE
Sources Show

Community Answers (1)

06/23/09 12:49 PM

As a 25 yrs diabetic and a son of a thin type 2 diabetic weight can be a problem. How long has your mother in law been overweight, did it just start with the diabetic meds. Sure weight can lead to insulin resistance but to say she can go off meds might be a bit premature. Can it be done yes it can, but please understand not each and every type 2 diabetic can do that. My mom was 100 lbs and was a type 2 and yes needed insulin that did not make her a type 1. You did not mention what your mother in law eats, much of diabetes is food intake and exercise. If she isnt eating low carb food her bs will go up. What meds is she on that has caused her weight gain as some do and some do not cause weight gain. Simply put diabetes isnt as easy as some think, if your mother in law can get out and walk and walk some more it helps lose weight and burn glucose it is about the patient being very proactive.
Answered By: furball64801
FLAG
SourcesShow



Most Recent Weight Issues Questions:

1year with Type 2 AIC is 5.9 - pretty aggressive carb control and medium exercise - still no weight loss - Help I am desperate
Whats the best way for a Type 1 diabetic, woman, on insulin pump to lose weight? Low carb? Low fat? And what about all the lows in the beginning?
I have lost 66lbs, have type 2 diabetes, hypertension & hypothyroidism, do you think i will ever get to stop taking so much medication ?
i am type 2diabetes .. have blood test and have high liver enzymes. does metformen.. have an effect on your liver...?
Does Insulin make you retain water like the Glyberid does
How Many grams of sugar a day can i have if i was diagnosed with type 2 diabeties last week, What can i ultimately eat for meals and snack.
can a type 1 become insulin resistence?..

 

*** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.