From: anonymous@mscc.cc.tn.us
Subject: blood sugar monitor device
Posted-By: xx101 (Doctors Office Moderator)
Organization: Organization For Community Networks
Date: Fri, 7 Jun 1996 02:41:24 GMT
Newsgroups: ofcn.clinic.doctor.qa

I understand there is a device that monitors blood sugar levels without piercing the skin. My 7 yo son has recently been dx as JD and has to test 3x a day, which is painful for him. Injection sites are clean and good; just hard for little boy to pierce himself. Also, do you know of any alternative treatmentsd outside the US which are effective? --

Reply ----------------------

I am sorry for the delay in responding to you. Unfortunately I am unware of any method of monitoring blood sugar levels without piercing the skin. I am a family physician and am not exposed to announcements of experimental technologies. I recommend talking with a diabetes nurse educator who works in a large clinic or with a home health agency, rather than at a hospital. I know America Online has a support group for diabetes under keyword "health".

Below is some advice I gave to another parent:
"I recommend seeing a doctor who will listen to your concerns and educate you and your child 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."

--

P. H. MD Family Physician Correspondent for General Medical Clinic Organization For Community Networks

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