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Hypoglaucemia - 11/15/2007 12:50:40 PM

serenitypup

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For those who don't know, hypo is on the opposite end of the spectrum as diabetes. It is a genetic disorder in which, rather than the body being unable to produce/break down sugar (as with diabetes) it can break it down too quickly, so the body needs more of it. I treat it simply by managing my diet; my hypo is largely ignored until it acts up, when it requires immediate treatment. Though I have hypo and have dealt with it for several years, I've never had to worry about it in a BDSM setting since my experience has been minimal and has largely involved Domming with some very light submissive moments (pup play and the like; occassional brief cropping).

Enough exposition; on to the problem. Does anyone out there have any advice for dealing with these type of medical conditions, things that are normally nothing to worry about but, if symptoms are left untreated long enough, can lead to coma?

< Message edited by serenitypup -- 11/15/2007 12:51:00 PM >

Post #: 1

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/15/2007 3:07:42 PM

CalifChick

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From: California
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quote:

ORIGINAL: serenitypup

Does anyone out there have any advice for dealing with these type of medical conditions, things that are normally nothing to worry about but, if symptoms are left untreated long enough, can lead to coma?

I can't think of anything other than "see your doctor as often as they recommend." But I'm guessing you were looking for something else? If so, please point it out to me, I'm missing it!

Cali

(in reply to serenitypup)

Post #: 2

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/15/2007 3:38:57 PM

serenitypup

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There's no doctor really involved in my situation. I admit, I'm self-diagnosed. We know my grandma has it and we know it's genetic. I know that it can act up, especially, when I get overheated, but I'm not sure what else could trigger it. When that happens, my blood sugar level will literally plummet. Perfectly fine one minute, dizzy and/or sick and/or fainting the next. No warning. If it goes untreated, I'll go into a diabetic coma. (Thankfully, that's never happened, but I've never had an attack anyplace other than around family/friends who knew the problem.) When my hypo does kick in, I get very easily confused and it can be hard for me to communicate my needs or even what is going on. It can be very scary, both for me and others around, especially if they don't know what's going on.

(in reply to CalifChick)

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RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/15/2007 4:06:31 PM

CalifChick

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Well then my first piece of advice is to GET A DOCTOR. The person who self-diagnoses has a fool for a patient.

If you want to read up on causes and treatment, go here: http://diabetes.niddk.nih.gov/dm/pubs/hypoglycemia/ . Scroll about halfway down to "Hypogyclemia in people who do not have diabetes." But be aware that you COULD have diabetes. Also be aware that your definition of hypoglycemia is not correct. And it's NOT genetic.

With your undiagnosed/self-diagnosed medical problem, I surely hope you do not drive. Let me restate... you should NOT drive, not only to protect yourself, but to protect EVERYBODY ELSE.

The reason you become dizzy and disoriented is that your blood sugar level drops below 70. This is nothing to fool with. And treating yourself, my word, I don't know how many different ways to say it... GET A DOCTOR.

Cali

Edited because this dang wireless keyboard CANNOT read my mind.

< Message edited by CalifChick -- 11/15/2007 4:08:37 PM >

(in reply to serenitypup)

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RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/15/2007 8:30:21 PM

slaverosebeauty

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From: Cali
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I have low blood sugar, how do I deal with it?? I eat foods that help to regulate the sugar in my blood; a well balanced diet and eating several small meals helps a LOT. I have had this for years [12 or 13] and have had a few 'episodes' when my sugar levels dropped to very low levels and I got dizzy and light headed, now I carry hard and soft candy [for emergancies], just in case as well as granola bars in the car and canned juices in the trunk, just in case. A few small changes can work wonders, but seeing your doctor is paramount; luckily, I have managed mine on my own and my NP has instilled in me those tricks and we keep an eye on those things. It's not genetic for me, no one else in my family has this, so I got the short straw, you learn to live with it and thrive. Good luck.

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RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/15/2007 8:49:59 PM

proudsub

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quote:

When my hypo does kick in, I get very easily confused and it can be hard for me to communicate my needs or even what is going on. It can be very scary, both for me and others around, especially if they don't know what's going on.

Have you considered getting a medic bracelet?

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(in reply to serenitypup)

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RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/15/2007 9:58:01 PM

angelikaJ

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Of course...have good follow-up with a MD

Aside from that...being self-aware...taking care of your self and managing your diet are the best things you can do to prevent a crisis BUT...communicating this health issue to everyone you are likely to spend any amount of time with including play partners is a necessary part of your responsibility to anyone you may play with...including what to do...letting them know what signs to look for...where your emergency supplies are... when to call 911...all of that is crucial information.
If your sugar is unstable playing with bondage might not be wise.

(in reply to serenitypup)

Post #: 7

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/16/2007 6:28:06 AM

MrThorns

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I'm not quite sure if I am hypoglycemic or not, but I know that my blood sugar drops and I get a bit... oh let's say..."sideways". I may get dizzy, disoriented and whatnot. It has never been too serious or something I haven't been able to regulate by knowing myself and eating regularily.

As for dealing with this condition in a BDSM arena...

First, you probably should go see a doc if you feel you could possibility go into a coma. Find out for sure what your situation is and take actions to regulate it.

Second, If you are in a BDSM-esque relationship, ensure that your partner is aware of your condition and that he/she knows what to do if there is an issue.

If you have medications... take them. Eat regularily.. take breaks during long scenes and ensure your partner knows when you are starting to feel a bit "off".

~Thorns

_____________________________

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RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/16/2007 7:03:03 AM

SweetSarijane

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From: KC area Missouri
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I am hypoglycemic, diagnosed over 20 years ago. I carry glucose tablets with me and any who top me are aware of this condition. I play hard and enjoy myself fully, but I am limited in how long I can stand before problems start. I rarely use a cross or whipping post because of this and then only for short singletail sessions. I'm on a spanking horse or bench usually and I can go for long periods there. I make sure I've eaten awhile before I play and afterwards I eat some sweets, not much, just enough to counteract and rarely have problems that way.

I have had some bad episodes before which result in me passing out completely for a short period and the doozies have happened very publicly. Not fun. I learned to make allowances and gain as much control over it as possible.

You really need to see a doctor though. You may actually be diabetic. There's no way to know for sure unless you get tests run.

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(in reply to MrThorns)

Post #: 9

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/16/2007 8:45:20 AM

Celeste43

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From: NYS
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http://diabetes.webmd.com/tc/hypoglycemia-low-blood-sugar-topic-overview

Frequently it's a precursor to diabetes. Go have a fasting blood sugar done, srsly.

But although coma is a possibility, it's unlikely. Pack candy, fruit juice and tell your partner when you start to get dizzy so you can take a break and eat something and rest for a bit.

(in reply to SweetSarijane)

Post #: 10

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/16/2007 11:20:57 PM

Termyn8or

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Chromium picolinate and vandadium sulfate might help. I said might, I don't know of their effectiveness as I do not take them. You might try it for your specific problem, because chromium and vanadium deficiencies are widespread in America.

I am not blaming some secret plot to sell us "chrome-vanadium" wrenches to hurt our health, nothing of the sort at this time. But there is a natural distribution of minerals on the planet, something over which mankind has/had no control, ever.

Incidentally I think that is spelled hypoglycemia, but then I could be wrong.

Diabetes could be termed hyperglycemia. Those are the people who need to take insulin. Insulin is produced by the body in the pancreas and metabolises with the sugar in the blood. If you have hypoglycemia either the sugar is not getting to your blood or you have too much insulin.

If you want much more pertinent info on it, post your weekly diet. I mean write down everything you eat in the next week and post it. If you think diet has nothing to do with this you are mistaken. I also want to know your ethnicity. You see, your diet must match your needs. Also are you physically active ? Are you an accountant or a bricklayer ? This is important as well.

I have told other people to write down everything they eat, and none have done it so far to my knowledge. People refuse to acknowledge that they are what they eat. What you are must be derived from what you eat, except eight pounds or so at birth. This includes numerous chemical processes in the body which cannot happen without certain elements.

Those elements are missing from our soil. How much plainer can I make it. Oh, I got it, do a search for senate document 264. They know, and they knew all along. The FDA the USDA, OK they didn't exist, but this whole thing is built on not telling. The whole medical industry. Senate document 264.

How it all relates to BDSM ? Here I go now. If you scene, you have had these bouts before, you know what brings them on to some extent, you know when they happened. Time it so they don't. Possibly making sure you ate well would do it, having a power drink might do it. Orange juice, a candy bar.

If you got someone tied up you owe them to stay coherent, and that doesn't just mean not getting high or drunk, in fact I am not even saying don't drink. Just don't go past a certain point. The same applies here. And you must remain concious to remain coherent.

The bigger issue here would be your health no ? I think this can be handled with a special diet, and you might be OK, but this condition can indeed be a precursor to diabetes. But without knowing what your current diet is, noone can recommend anything. And that includes doctors.

How can a doctor sit there and do all this without even asking about your diet ? How can the best doctor in the world do it ? Answer is they can't, it is all a money game. What you eat affects you in profound ways, of that there is no doubt, for them to not even ask is ridiculous. Did they ask ? They didn't ask anyone I know.

So what's for breaskfast ?

T

(in reply to Celeste43)

Post #: 11

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/17/2007 6:43:11 AM

MstrDennynSlave

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Another thing to add to your supply for low blood sugar is gel sugar. Can be bought in any drugstore. Comes in a package of 3. Under different brand names. If you get to the point where you have passed out from low blood sugar, these dissolve instantly in your mouth. All anyone has to do is squeeze it into your mouth. Anyone who is unconcious is not going to be able to swallow. The gel negates that need to swallow, and work wonders.

(in reply to Termyn8or)

Post #: 12

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/17/2007 7:47:02 AM

mistoferin

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While it might seem like it makes sense to eat high sugar foods when your sugar is low, it actually compounds the problem. When you consume a large amount of sugar your body reacts by dumping a large amount of insulin to cover the load...this in turn causes your sugar to crash. For a condition like hypoglycemia it is better to be proactive and eat smaller meals at frequent and regular intervals. Also, consume sugars that are more complex and harder for your body to burn....like the sugar found in milk. Avoid simple sugars.

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RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/17/2007 9:21:58 AM

winterlight

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For heaven's sake see a Dr. you might not have hypoglycemia. If you do have it, there are some books at your local library or bookstore about it.
Hypoglycemic's tend to eat every few hours or so to keep their blood sugar at a level (hopefully) that keeps them evened out i guess is the term.

SEE A DR!

(in reply to mistoferin)

Post #: 14

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/17/2007 9:30:48 AM

Termyn8or

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Those gel packs are great for emergencies, I am sure. Hopefully it doesn't get to that point.

Then the different types of sugar, good point. Refined sugar is bad for anyone, unless used as the drug that it is to save a comatose hypoglycemic person.

Now I won't touch sugar, or just about anything containing sugar. No cakes, soda, a whole lot of things I will not ingest because of their sugar content. I know a few people who could never live like this, really. I am fine with it.

However I would eat a piece of fruit. Not that I do eat alot of fruit, but I don't avoid it like the plague. It seems mistoferin has given me an idea. In your case, serenitypup, I think you should eat alot of fruit. Actually not really alot, the way I would put it is eat fruit FREQUENTLY.

This had not occurred to me. Fruit has natural sugar in it, which is a bit different than the processed stuff, which IMO is very similar to cocaine, both in form and origin. On the other hand, if you like grapes, you can almost consider them pills made by nature.

I would seriously consider this path if I were you, eat fruit every 2 or 3 hours. I would also monitor blood sugar, perhaps 4 times a day, but that is easier said than done. Going to a doctor is your perogative, but that doesn't mean you can do nothing for yourself. Even if you go to a doctor, don't expect him to just cure you. You still must do things for yourself. Don't let him prescribe 99 medications right off the bat. You might need a prescription to get a glucosometer, I am not sure. (that might be glucometer)

Whatever you decide, do something. This is something that could screw you up in later life. One thing is sure, you need to stabilize that blood sugar. That means that your pancreas needs to respond properly to it. It is not. There is something in your diet that your system does not like.

Or you may just have the type of metabolism that you need to eat five times a day. Don't get me wrong, many people who are not like this get addicted to snacking all the time. But I also believe it is true that some people might have to. I had a French teacher who had to sit down and eat a candy bar once in a while, right in class. She apologized that she didn't have them for everyone, and the reason she had to eat it now. We were cool, but I flunked French.

At any rate, from personal experience I can tell you this. I don't eat any refined sugar if I can help it, I avoid it like the plague, and my blood sugar is so stable that I can fast for three days and still function and go to work, all that. I don't go that long anymore, that was when I was trying to lose weight. I still skip a day now and then.

You know what the main problem is in avoiding sugar ? Finding something to drink.

And your life may be structured such that you only have certain times to eat, three meals. If that is the case, find a way, even at work or wherever, slip away and eat and orange or an apple, or some grapes, kiwi, whatever. It all has natural sugar in it. Three squares plus two fruit breaks might do it for the day.

Worth a shot I think.

T

(in reply to mistoferin)

Post #: 15

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/17/2007 7:27:31 PM

calicowgirl

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I am also hypo, diagnose and often rechecked since diabetes runs in my family so like everyone else here, my suggestion is to see a doctor.

The things I do... I carry glucose tabs... sweets, like the glucose tabs, are good in a pinch but if you do not have protein shortly after to keep things steady, you will be much worse off than you were to start with. Keep track of the things you think might be triggers for you. I tend to have most of my trouble going from the cooler months into the hotter months... the heat and increased activity always does it to me so I know to be extra careful during those times. And be aware of "your" symptoms then make those around you aware of them also. Not everyone presents exactly the same when experiencing low blood sugar. Be proactive of your overall health, hydration etc, it all makes a difference.

Six or so small meals a day, containing some type of protein, work much better than three larger meals, and skipping meals can and will cause problems.

cali

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(in reply to Termyn8or)

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RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/17/2007 10:02:44 PM

secretagentgirl

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I'd make sure to eat a decent sized meal with protien before you do any activity where you might not want to be interrupted.
Also, many people don't know that caffiene is terrible for hypoglycemics. If you drink it, stop today!

I don't think low blood sugar can lead to a diabetic coma... it is the opposite, isnt it? But I would certainly heed the advice of the others and see a doctor. Unfortunately, there isn't much to do except regulate with food, so a nutritionist could be a good idea too.

(in reply to calicowgirl)

Post #: 17

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/20/2007 7:26:11 PM

SylvereApLeanan

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Fast reply:

Standard disclaimers of the IMO/YMMV variety apply.

I'm also a "borderline" hypo with a similar situation to yours. What's worked for me is to keep fruit juice or peanut butter and crackers close at hand. If you want a way to preempt a crash during an extended scene, your Dom can easily hold a cup and straw for you to take sips of juice. Alternate with water so you don't crash or become dehydrated. Also, don't go more than a couple of hours without a snack. Fruits, veggies, and complex carbs work well for me. Depending on the type of scene you're doing, your snack can be incorporated into it with little effort. Bite-sized snacks such as fruits and nuts make good "puppy treats" and you can drink juice from a bowl. If you're on the Domme side, you can make your sub feed you grapes or whatever you like while you recline on a chaise like a Greek goddess. Get creative, have fun with it.

I'll also advocate seeing a doc and having a fasting glucose tolerance test done just to be safe. It's easy to swing over from hypoglycemia to diabetes. However, if you're as close to the border as my family tends to be, the test may not conclusively diagnose you with hypoglycemia. Sometimes you just have to listen to your own body and let it tell you what it needs.

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Post #: 18

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/20/2007 9:03:26 PM

akisha

Posts: 2071
Joined: 6/25/2005
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: serenitypup

For those who don't know, hypo is on the opposite end of the spectrum as diabetes. It is a genetic disorder in which, rather than the body being unable to produce/break down sugar (as with diabetes) it can break it down too quickly, so the body needs more of it. I treat it simply by managing my diet; my hypo is largely ignored until it acts up, when it requires immediate treatment. Though I have hypo and have dealt with it for several years, I've never had to worry about it in a BDSM setting since my experience has been minimal and has largely involved Domming with some very light submissive moments (pup play and the like; occassional brief cropping).

Enough exposition; on to the problem. Does anyone out there have any advice for dealing with these type of medical conditions, things that are normally nothing to worry about but, if symptoms are left untreated long enough, can lead to coma?

hypo does not lead to coma, worse i've gotten is really dizzy and nauseous.

I keep juice nearby when i play and my last Dom always had snacks ready for after, like fruit, cheese, etc.

Some people will say candy, chocolate etc, and they are ok for sudden sugar drop but realize you'll have a fast high but your drastic drop soon after will be worse then the first one.

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Post #: 19

RE: Hypoglaucemia - 11/21/2007 9:21:57 AM

serenitypup

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My current diet, while not 100% consistent, is predictable since I've got it down to simple routine.

During the week, breakfast is generally something fast, eaten before I leave for school. Toast is a common morning meal, so common I'm getting a little sick of it. Generally I'll put peanut butter or honey (or both) on my toast and take my medication and vitamins (vitamin c, beet tablets, a multivitamin, strattera 40 mg., and claritin) with milk.

Lunch is eaten around noon or one, depending on when my class ends. This varies daily depending on where I eat. I usually choose protein and complex carbs like a chicken sandwich, pizza, pasta, a burger, etc. More often than not, I'll get salad and fruit. I'll drink tea, milk, or juice. This is also when I take my afternoon pill (another strattera, 25 mg.)

After school, I have a snack anytime I get in at a reasonable hour. This is generally when I reach for sugar. Hard candy, chocolate, whatever else is around my room and convenient; sometimes, I'll have a slightly healthier option of fruit (banana or apple when we've got them) or cookies/crackers with peanut butter.

Dinner varies each night. Protein is always present, ditto veggies. Dark green veggies (high in iron) are common choices since three family members are anemic. To make things easier, the whole family sticks (somewhat) to my step-dad's heart healthy diet. Whole grain breads, lean meats, more fruits and veggies, etc. Sticking somewhat to the diet works like this: we'll get bigger portions, can add salt to our food, and such. With dinner, I have soda, tea,or milk.

Sometimes, I snack after dinner. This is also something high in sugar content. Candy, cookies, ice cream.

Weekend eating is harder to predict. Generally 2 meals and 3-5 snacks/small meals each day.

The few times my blood sugar drops, the things I reach for are water, protein, sugar (simple), sugar (complex, like carbs; something that will break down faster, and powerade/gatorade to replace electrolytes in that order. Since my drops are usually prompted by me getting overheated, I try and cool myself off at the same time, hence the water being first in the list.

< Message edited by serenitypup -- 11/21/2007 9:24:48 AM >

(in reply to akisha)

Post #: 20

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