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Sudden Thirst and Weight Loss Led to Life-Changing Diagnosis
8 Feb
Summary
- Experiencing extreme thirst and dry mouth, the individual's symptoms were initially dismissed.
- A home blood sugar test revealed dangerously high levels, prompting immediate hospital visit.
- Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, the individual now manages the condition with technology.
A young adult, previously known for their robust health and active lifestyle, began experiencing alarming symptoms including extreme thirst and a persistent dry mouth.
Initially attributing weight loss to increased exercise, the individual's thirst intensified, leading to significant anxiety about water accessibility. Online searches for symptoms pointed towards diabetes, but this possibility was dismissed.
During a visit home in April 2022, a family dinner conversation led to a pivotal moment. A father's observation about his own diabetes prompted a blood sugar check, which returned a critical 'High' reading.
Urgent medical attention at the hospital revealed the severity of the situation. Doctors indicated that without intervention, the individual could have faced life-threatening complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis.
Following the diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes, the individual now navigates daily life with an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor, emphasizing the constant calculations required for management.
This experience has motivated them to share their story online, aiming to destigmatize diabetes and educate others about Type 1 diabetes' potential for adult onset and varied presentations.
