Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Inverary, ON

Doctors "treat", that's their primary job

They look at test results or x-rays or scans or whatever and determine a course of treatment - that's what they do

When it comes to Diabetes, if your A1C is above 7.0% they prescribe you meds and most will at least add "you should lose some weight and start eating better, but that's where it stops - that's their job

And if you choose not to take their advice, and your numbers stay up there after your next Lab Visit they increase the dose or add… read more

February 7, 2025 (edited)
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members reflected on the original poster's frank conversation about what doctors don't tell newly diagnosed diabetics, with many agreeing that... Read more

Members reflected on the original poster's frank conversation about what doctors don't tell newly diagnosed diabetics, with many agreeing that they received minimal education beyond basic medication instructions and had to research diabetes management themselves or learn from lived experiences in support groups. Several members shared powerful stories of being left uninformed about their diagnosis, experiencing preventable complications like hyperglycemia or medication side effects, or finding that their doctors were more focused on prescribing pills than providing honest guidance about lifestyle changes and long-term risks. A recurring theme was gratitude for peer support communities where real people living with diabetes share practical wisdom, accountability, and hope that medical professionals often don't provide, with members emphasizing that while doctors treat the disease, fellow diabetics teach you how to truly live with it.

A DiabetesTeam Member

Poor Bob :(
You know for me oddly enough the best advice I ever got came from my sister ( who isn't a diabetic except for when her cancer treatments have made her one) She told me to find a support group...and trust me I know the angels were looking out for me when I found this group. Graham, you and Henry have taught me so very much!! You got me into my research mode and I am very thankful.
Also, I take the info I learn here and share it with my doctor & she says I make her a better doctor.
I continue to learn more and more. While doctors can educate you on what they know..I will say real people living with the same disease have helped me. Sometimes people need to be around others with the disease to understand and respect what it takes to care for your body and also to see what happens when you don't take care of your body. So, while people need doctors & endocrinologists ( and I listen to my doctor) I feel it is imperative for them to also see and talk with others who have the same disease as they have.

February 7, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

One of the key points listed is number 6 "Personal Responsibility"

February 7, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

Very little was known when I got diabetes 45 years ago, I was told I was a border line diabetic and was not all that serious. My pregnancy was a nightmare; they gave me unsweetened juice and wondered why my sugars spiked. I had to take insulin half way through my pregnancy and they wondered why I gained weight. Truly we have come a long way but we still have some fighting to do.

February 8, 2025
A DiabetesTeam Member

I was tested for t2 diabetes in January 1997 and that was that. In August I went to the doctor with shoulder Capsulitis and the I asked the doctor about the test last January. He said “Oh you’ve got diabetes” I asked why I wasn’t told and he said that I didn’t ring to ask and that was that. I assumed that the doctor would inform me and if not no news is good news and that is why I trust the medicine professionals as far as i could throw a diesel engine.

They put me on an ecg machine and a few tests and that was that. No support so I had to educate myself.

Doctors won’t tell the truth for a variety of reasons, one of them is that people mustn’t feel “marginalised” - all they need to do is follow a healthy diet they are told.

Graham, don’t get me going or else my blood glucose might go through the roof! 😂

February 7, 2025
DiabetesTeam

It seems like you're reflecting on the importance of honest and direct communication about managing type 2 diabetes. Here's a summary of what might not always be emphasized during diagnosis but is crucial for managing diabetes effectively:

1. Life Expectancy Impact: Type 2 diabetes can shorten life expectancy by up to 10 Show Full Answer

It seems like you're reflecting on the importance of honest and direct communication about managing type 2 diabetes. Here's a summary of what might not always be emphasized during diagnosis but is crucial for managing diabetes effectively:

1. Life Expectancy Impact: Type 2 diabetes can shorten life expectancy by up to 10 years if unmanaged.
2. Weight Loss Importance: Losing even 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve blood sugar control.
3. Dietary Changes: A low-carb, minimally processed diet is key to managing blood sugar.
4. A1C Goals: Aiming for an A1C below 6.5% or even 6.0% can reduce complications.
5. Progression of Disease: Without lifestyle changes, medication needs and complications will likely increase.
6. Personal Responsibility: Diabetes management requires consistent effort, including diet, exercise, and medication adherence.

For more personalized advice, always consult your healthcare provider.

February 7, 2025

Related Questions

View All
A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Inverary, ON

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Ohio, IL

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Miami, FL

Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a member? Log In