puberteitdiabetes

Theme: Puberty

Christian: “In 2nd year (8th grade), I had a really bad year. I was suddenly no longer able to adjust my levels properly. Something was very wrong. I had to go to the doctor all the time, sometimes even twice a week, but it didn’t get any better.”

Dirk: “I had a very difficult period when I was 18. For about six months, I barely used the injections – I just didn’t want to. I didn’t think of the complications that I could have later, it just didn’t interest me. My mom was very worried and overprotective, which made it worse. I wanted her to let me do my own thing. Parents shouldn’t be too involved. They should let it go a bit. You can always pick it back up later.”

Miranda: “I am 18 years old and have had diabetes for almost 14 years now. I never properly adjusted. It just doesn’t work well for me. I always fluctuate a lot between high and low and never have a normal day in between with normal levels. Sometimes I get a bit tired of it. I can get really upset that I have it when there are all those other kids who are completely healthy.”

Those miserable growth hormones

Many people have a difficult time when they hit puberty. Puberty and diabetes do not go well together either. Apart from the fact that you do not want all your time taken up managing your diabetes, it is also more difficult to get your blood sugar level under control. That is because your body changes and certain glands and hormones become active. Especially the growth hormones, which work extra hard, reducing the effect of insulin and causing you to need more. Therefore, you are often at a very high level in the morning – which can be very bothersome. You do your best to get your diabetes under control, but your blood sugar level keeps rising and falling. And if you have concerned parents, it can be even more exhausting when they get involved all the time.

It’s temporary

The best thing you can do is measure more frequently and adjust your dosage regularly. And accept that for a while, things are going to be less than perfect. It’s temporary and will pass. If you notice that you’re fluctuating a lot, you can discuss what your best options are with your doctor or diabetes nurse. Try to find out how much insulin works best for you.

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