Expert: Barb Date: 7/9/2008 Subject: One Time Low Reading
Question I have type II diabetes. I take Actos each day to keep it under control. I have consistently been no lower than 70 and no higher than 126 for the past couple of years. I have been losing weight the past year, and have really stepped that effort up this summer. I also began taking Tricor a month ago in an effort to reduce my triglycerides. This morning, my result was 46, the lowest I can recall it being. I am not having any dizziness, or sweats; I am a little fatigued, but I have sleep apnea so that's not that unusual. I periodically have gout, and it has been a little testy this week, but even so, I am wondering if I should be alarmed. What would be a warning flag result in the next few days, both for morning and pre-dinner?
Thanks,
Pat Howiler
Answer Hi Pat,
Oh dear!! You have what is called "hypoglycemia un-awareness." When you have very tight control over your blood sugars (as you apparently do), it's easy to go VERY low without noticing it.
How frequently do you test? Test first thing on rising, and 90 minutes after each meal. If your reading post-meal is less than 130, you should eat a small snack -- combination of carbs and protein -- at the 2 1/2 hour point.
With the weight loss -- and I assume you're also exercising?? -- you may have managed to lose enough body fat that you no longer need the Actos, or you need a lower dose. Make an appointment ASAP with your doctor for an up-to-date A1C test, and see if he/she thinks you still need the meds, or you can manage your diabetes with diet and exercise.
