Question -----
"My 11 year old daughter was diagnosed with diabetes in Nov. of last year"
Answer------
I am sure this was quite upsetting. Much can be done to control blood sugar and prevent complications, but for a preteen girl the main issue in treating her diabetes might become facing the emotional challenges of adolescence at the same time as dealing with the constraints of regulated diet, exercise and insulin shots. I recommend getting to know some parents of diabetic teens and or some young adults diabetics who could support your daughter and you.
Question -----
"since no one on either sides of families have diabetes we asked how she got it.He said viruses probably. Could the virus possibly be cured? I spoke with someone who took her daughter to a wellness center in Nevada and they cured the viruses and she no longer had diabetes. Is this possible? No one seems to be able to help. I contacted the place in Nevada but all they did was send me brochures about their facility and said we would have to make an appointment."
Answer ------
I am a family physician. I am not up to date on the most recent research into causes of Type I, juvenile onset diabetes. I have read that there is some evidence that viruses MIGHT explain SOME cases of Type I, juvenile onset diabetes, but the jury is still out on that question. I strongly recommend avoiding the wellness clinic in Nevada. Type I, juvenile onset diabetes does not generally run in families like the more common Type II, adult onset diabetes.
Question ----
"My daughter is having stomach problems, vomiting and cramps and hardly no appetite. Her doctor said he did not know why she was sick but it was not the diabetes causing her illness. What then? When I asked him about the virus being cured he said there is always a possiblity but now where do I go. What doctor?"
Answer ------
It's possible that your daughter's stomach problems are aggravated by, or even solely due to, the emotional stress of being diagnosed with diabetes. I would want to make sure she did not have a urinary tract (bladder) infection. I recommend seeing a doctor who will listen to your concerns and educate you and your daughter thoroughly about diabetes and its medical and emotional complications. I recommend avoiding anyone who offers a "cure" for diabetes or other "quick fix" therapies. To be honest, I know few family docs who see large numbers of newly diagnosed, Type I diabetics, even though we on the whole do a great job with the emotional issues. I would recommend a pediatrician or perhaps an endocrinologist comfortable with kids. If you go to a diabetes clinic run by endocrinologists, I recommend one with social workers and health educators as well as nurses and dietitians who can answer your questions.
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P. H. MD Family Physician Correspondent for General Medical Clinic Organization For Community Networks
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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