I have reactive hypoglycemia (or idiopathic postbrandial syndrome or whatever this mess is that is messing up my life) and I have an appointment with an endocrinologist coming up. My question is, is this appointment going to do me any good?
I wonder if they will prescribe me something like Avandia which may help or if they will just blow me off and tell me to eat protein. I will not take that dangerous, horrible glucose tolerance test, either, and I am going to look majorly suspicious taking time off of work for a whole day for that test (I definitely can't go back that day after they load me up with sugar and I have adrenaline flowing through my veins).
So, my question is, is this doctor's appt worth it? It is a lot of hassle to get time off to go to it, so I'm starting to have second thoughts. I think this condition is not treatable at all even if diagnostic tests are done, and doctors hesitate to give Avandia, which can cause temporary weight gain and heart problems.
2006-09-11 16:41:33 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Diabetes
Yes. Endocrinologist can rule out underlying endocrine disease, and make sure that what you have truly is reactive hypoglycemia.
They also may teach you to test your blood sugar, or refer you to a nutritionist.
They may use meds, but that's kinda rare.
Please keep us updated, I want to know how you made out.
2006-09-11 17:07:20 · answer #1 · answered by blondy2061h 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Idiopathic Reactive Hypoglycemia
2016-12-10 06:37:36 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I've had the glucose tolerance test, during which I passed out, and felt pretty awful afterwards. The test confirmed reactive hypoglycemia, but I suspected as much based on my symptoms. It would be useful to see a good endocrinologist to determine the cause of your hypoglycemia, and to screen for other endocrine abnormalities. Perhaps if an underlying condition is found and treated, it would help with the hypoglycemia.
Reactive hypoglycemia can be managed by diet. I found consulting a nutritionist helpful, although you can find the same basic info online. Moderate exercise also helps. I'd try those before resorting to medication, unless you have a severe case.
2006-09-11 18:04:15 · answer #3 · answered by inquiring minds want 2 know 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Seeing a doctor for health problems is always a GOOD idea, and is never a waste of time, in my opinion. This is especially true if you have a chronic condition like diabetes. If you are a Type 2 diabetic, as I am assuming you are, Avandia, a TZD, is a good medication as it is an insulin sensitizer and targets the core defects of Type 2 diabetes, i.e., insulin resistance and beta-cell impairment. The side effects you mention, weight gain and heart problems, are common of the class, but only your doctor can truly determine if Avandia is right for you. In clinical studies, a relatively small percentage of patients, versus placebo, withdrew due to weight gain, and Avandia is contraindicated only in NYHA Class III and IV Heart Failure.
Take care of yourself.
2006-09-11 16:55:13 · answer #4 · answered by Confused_Rep 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would definitely go. An endocrinologist will know much more about this than a general practitioner. It can't hurt.
2006-09-11 16:45:37 · answer #5 · answered by Eric H 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
give it a try he is a specialist maybe he can help there is no harm in trying...i get tired of doctors too but i wish i had one right now unfortunately i don't...so you go and hopefully he can help. i will be thinking good thought for you good luck..
2006-09-11 20:32:22 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋