How to Deal With Diabetes: Confessions of a Closet Diabetic

I am not a diabetic. Even after being told four years ago that I am classified as a diabetic, I still can't admit to it. The oozing foot ulcer, tingling in my toes and erratic energy levels are all daily reminders of my "condition" but I still refuse to say the words, "I am a diabetic". I know that it is extremely foolish of me to not admit it and treat it but I have never been one to accept medical advice at face value. Suffice it to say, eventually my pigheadedness will catch up with me and I will have no one but myself to blame.

My "condition" became painfully evident to me when I was taken to the emergency room after an accident and my blood sugar level was in the mid 300's. For those who don't know, the normal BSL (blood sugar level) is below 100 but thee are some reports that say that it can be as high as 120 and the individual many not have a sugar management issue. I was told to see my family doctor for a treatment plan and given a prescription for Glucophage (or something with a very similar sounding name) and hurried out the door.

Fast forward about a year. I developed a few blisters on my feet, nothing all that odd for me, I'm a pretty active person. Two and a half years later, I am still dealing with the after effects of one of the blisters in the form of a very nasty, smelling and oozing foot ulcer. The doctor that I did see about it told me the only way it will completely heal is to stay off of it for at least three weeks - that means no pressure on it at all. To me, that is life in hell. I know that if it doesn't heal within the next few months I am facing some major life decisions that could eventually including having toes amputated.

Why do I avoid seeking medical help for my issue? In my mind, there isn't a problem. I can't admit that there is something wrong therefore nothing is wrong. Unless you are in this type of situation, it will be extremely hard for you to understand what I am saying and exactly what I mean. I am in a constant state of denial and I know that if something happens to me in the future, I will have only myself to blame.

Diabetes can strike anyone at any time, be responsible and watch for early warning signs.

Credit: Diabetes International

Copyright: Jason Newell