My outlook on today started out wonderfully. I was all set to have a very important test called an Endoscopic Ultrasound at a hospital over three hours from my home, but even though the drive was quite ridiculous, I was hopeful because I really believed that this test would give me the answers I’d been seeking about the pain in my abdomen.
My mom and I arrived right on time and I was immediately called back to begin prepping for the procedure. They had started my IV, and I had already spoken with the anesthesiologist when the doctor came in with some news I did not want to hear. My blood sugar had spiked to an incredible 703 due to the fact that I was instructed not to take my morning insulin dose because this was a fasting procedure. (Meaning that I was not permitted to eat, drink, or take any medication after midnight) The doctor informed me that going under while having such a high glucose could cause a myriad of problems, and that performing the test today was out of the question even if my blood sugar did come down. I was then sent to the emergency department of the hospital to receive fluids and an insulin drip.
I was furious, disappointed, and scared all at the same time over this situation. My blood sugar had never reach that level before, even when I was diagnosed. I had also driven such a long way to get this test done and finally get some answers- answers that would now be kept from me even longer. I had decided to try and relax while they were bringing my sugar down, and maybe even try to take a nap. But no sooner did I get checked into the ER did they come in and say those words that I’ve heard way too much over the past few months- “We’re going to admit you.”
I could feel my blood pressure rising more and more until I felt like my ears were going to blow off. There was no way I was going to be admitted to the hospital for a 4th time in 2 months. Furious was not even close to how I felt in the moment. But as soon as the doctor left and the door closed, I lost it. I was crying like a baby- everything just hit me at once and I had a complete breakdown, but luckily for me, my mother was there for support and comfort and after a little while was finally able to calm me down.
After a few hours, several insulin injections, and 2 bags of fluids, my blood sugar came down to a normal level, and I was given the joyous news that rather than admit me, they were going to let me go home. By the time I was released I was completely exhausted, but nevertheless very happy. Unfortunately, today was not the day of answers that I had hoped for, but I have faith that my answers will come soon. And the next time I’m told not to take my insulin in the morning before the procedure… I think I’ll take a little anyways.
– Jessica.
Adventures in Diabetic Land 