Re: Insulin Resistance--ongoing testing
From: Mary (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Sat, 16 Dec 2000 19:59:26 -0600 (CST)
Hi Kerry,
I read your message with interest. I am about to start glucophage,
which i know you are not on, but I am interested in the fact you get
your levels checked to see how youre doing. My dr has not suggested
this but i think it is very smart! so can you tell me how often you go
in? and do they just do the hormonal panel or do you get more IGTT's
done?
also, while i konw my med. doesnt do anything to the liver, i was just
curious...how do they 'check' yours?
thanks!
At Wed, 13 Dec 2000, Joan wrote:
>
>Kerry,
>I appreciate your frustration. I currently take Avandia which is
>another insulin sensitizer. I also do not have high blood sugar. I am
>however Isulin Resistant. This was measured both by a fasting test and
>a 2 hr IGTT test. Since I have been on the medication my Dr. regularly
>has me tested to check on the ratio of glucose/insulin to see how I'm
>doing. The insulin Sensitizers help your body respond more normally to
>insulin. Addressing this problem before the glucose gets high may be
>the best approach-left unchecked you could develop diabetes if you are
>IR. Treating the IR also should help prevent a number of health
>problems associated with IR/diabetes-like heart problems, hypertension
>etc....
>None of these medications is a miracle weight loss drug. However, one
>reason some women have an easier time loosing wieght while on them is
>that once their insulin is under better control, the cravings for
>carbohydrates are reduced. When the insulin isn't surging and blood
>sugar rising and dropping so often, you can relearn what it is to be
>hungry and not just satisfying an, albeit physiologically based,
>craving.
>
>I have had numerous blood tests for hormonal levels, many ultrasounds
>and I also regularly get my liver tested to make sure there are no side
>effects from my medication. If your Dr. is not an endocrinologist, you
>might consider finding one if you feel you need better monitoring and
>better information. I can also recommend Dr. Thatchers book"The Hidden
>Epidemic' and the INCIID FAQ-link attached.
>I agree that these medications shouldn't be taken lightly. I have found
>that more often that not Dr's have not taken my PCOS and the related
>health concerns seriously .For me,taking the medication is worth the
>risk.
>
>Good
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