1998: You are always thirsty and hungry
Examination
- So you're always hungry, you're weak, and you urinate frequently. How's your eyesight? Somewhat blurry? Please exhale. OK. I'm going to send you to the lab for a urinalysis and a blood test for glucose.
Diagnosis
- several hours later...
All right, then. Your blood test and urinalysis indicates high levels of glucose, or sugar. The urinalysis also shows a high level of ketones. What all this means is that your pancreas is producing little or no insulin. You have Type I diabetes.
Treatment
- We need to admit you to the intensive care unit at the hospital immediately. There, we'll administer insulin and fluids intravenously, and we'll be able to monitor your body's levels of glucose, potassium, and electrolytes. After you've stabilized, you'll need daily injections of insulin, careful monitoring, and a restrictive diet. I'm also going to refer you to an ophthamologist to have you eyes checked out.
Prognosis
- three months later...
Everything seems to be fine. Your glycohemoglobin is right where it should be, as is your blood sugar and urine microalbumin. I'll see you in three months.
Start Over | 1900 | 1950 | 1998