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Silent Killer: Type 1 Diabetes Almost Claimed Her Life
11 Apr
Summary
- Burning thigh pain masked a life-threatening condition for years.
- Blood glucose level reached a shocking 700mg/dL, indicating undiagnosed diabetes.
- Diabetic neuropathy led to permanent nerve damage, including leg pain.
Pax Colston, 27, recently discovered she had lived with undiagnosed type 1 diabetes for years. Her journey began with a recurring burning sensation in her thigh, which she initially dismissed as over-exfoliation or blanket use.
However, persistent symptoms like extreme thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, fatigue, and gastrointestinal distress led her to seek medical attention. Doctors were astonished that she was still alive, with her blood glucose level recorded at an alarming 700mg/dL.
Colston's leg pain was diagnosed as diabetic neuropathy, a permanent nerve damage caused by sustained high blood sugar. She spent three days in the hospital undergoing treatment to stabilize her glucose levels.
Now managing her condition with a continuous glucose sensor and daily insulin injections, Colston shares her story to encourage others to prioritize their health and advocate for accessible diabetes treatment in the US.
