The other day on twitter,
Kim asked if anyone noticed a change in BGs when they have a sunburn. I wanted to answer, but this is the thing, I couldn't. Not because I haven't been sunburned, I know that I have. But it's because throughout college and a few years beyond, I didn't pay attention to my diabetes. So the answer that popped into my head was "I wish I knew." And then, "In the theme of honesty, I'm going to have to write about this."
This is the thing. I know diabetes. And I sound like I know it, so when I went to the endo all throughout college, I was able to talk my way into paying attention to diabetes. And it worked. At the time, fortunately, but ultimately, unfortunately. But even if it hadn't worked, would I have changed? Probably not, because I wasn't ready. Sure, I paid attention, and I always had insulin with me and tabs, but I wouldn't always test. And then, paying attention to things like "do blood sugars have a different pattern when you're sunburnt?" The thought of paying attention to a different pattern when I couldn't even pay attention to my regular patterns is a little intimidating, and right now, embarrassing.
But now. Now I'm ready for this. I've been paying attention and changing basals and asking questions not only of my medical team, but also of PWDs and Caregivers. And I have a list of things to pay attention to. (Being sunburnt is at the top). I've been researching, investigating, and feeling better than I've felt in years.
Does anyone else have any other things that may cause a change in the amount of insulin they need? (Besides exercise & illness) Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated :)
