Over the past three years of binge reading other PWD’s posts and interviewing people who live with diabetes, the common theme has been our ability to recognize low BGs changes over time. In my adolescent years, my nose would feel numb and I would get shaky. At that point in my life I was checking my BG every once in awhile so my body took the reigns and made sure I knew something wasn’t right. It was all about trial and error – I feel woozy and am shaking so I would down a packet of honey or four and start to feel better.
In my early twenties, I wasn’t testing at all. I had a kit and probably an ample amount of test strips, but it was not a priority. It wasn’t until my first and only “to date” diabetes related episode that forced me to change my tune. The episode included a few Halloween parties, staying up to see the sun rise and enjoying an abundance of adult beverages. If I recall correctly, within a few weeks prior to this episode, I transitioned from NPH & Regular to Lantus & Novolog. I’ve been “compliant” my WHOLE life and didn’t fully understand how my body would react to the change in management. This low was a game changer, an eye opener of sorts, and completely freaked out my BF & roommate Becky and family. From what I remember – I vomited and went back to bed. I chalked this up to drinking beer. When they found my meter, I believe my blood sugar was so low it didn’t register. Long story short – my parents had to carry me to the car and I was rushed to the emergency room.
As I rolled into my thirties, I unfortunately discovered a low BG made me act belligerent and/or confrontational. Looking back, I’ve come to terms that a handful (or a few dozen) situations were probably fueled by a low BG. I’m still making my apologies and have forgiven myself.
Now, in my EARLY forties, things once again are starting to change, especially since I dialed into a Dexcom G5. I no longer feel the night time lows naturally. I’m not sure if it’s because my brain has gladly taken a break now the G5 is doing all of the work. As I’ve allowed the device to be my crutch, maybe I tune out what my actual body is telling me. Time will tell and I’ll be sure to share future discoveries.
With anything diabetes, you have to be on your toes. For the first time in my adult life, I had a “hardcore” low BG episode since the episode. Not only did I sweat through my pajamas, I had the shakes, just as I did as an 8 year old. Even though my G5 sensor was blowing up, I guess my body also came to the rescue. It’s nice to know I have all hands on deck when it comes to diabetes care.