[Diabetes] General Chat and Support Thread

Tony H · 04-02-2023 6:15pm

Thanks

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120201420#Comment_120201420

thanks for the offer banie , went down to my local pharmacy and she gave me a freestyle optimum neo for nothing ,

GlucoNavii seem to have the cheapest strips but don’t ship to Ireland ,

any recommendations for a decent monitor with more economical strips ?

banie01 · 04-02-2023 6:29pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120202508#Comment_120202508

Don't buy strips, if you have the monitor get the script for those strips from your GP. I mean even "cheap" strips are €30 or so per 50.

Have you applied for an LTI card yet? You shouldn't be paying for your diabetes meds or devices at all. If you haven't already applied? Get it done.

I've never heard of that particular monitor so others might chime in on that.

banie01 · 08-02-2023 3:35pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120198607#Comment_120198607

My GP has amended my LTI script to include the G7 as an alternative to the G6 "if available".

My pharmacist has said that he will go with the G7 as my default from now on. Fingers crossed it will all play nicely as a simple substitution and HSE will continue to reimburse.

Price of G7 is €75 per unit, price of G6 sensors (which I'm already getting on LTI) €225 per 3. Plus the additional €215 every 90 days for a transmitter.

The cost to the HSE stays the same and I save nearly €1k a year in transmitter cost. I will let the thread know how it goes.

Galbin · 08-02-2023 7:43pm

None of my local pharmacies are able to supply me with Ozempic due to national shortage. They told me to ask my GP for another GLP-1 med. Are others having this issue? If so, what did your doctor substitute?

Leinstertomas · 09-02-2023 12:56am

Hi everyone,

I'm T1 and recently moved to Ireland. I have got on the LTI scheme so have accessed my insulin, needles etc with no hassle, but I've not managed yet to be taken on by a diabetes specialist team and therefore haven't been able to get a CGM system on my prescription.

I rang the hospital and they informed me that I would need a GP referral for this. This annoyed me as when I saw the GP to have him fill in my LTI application he never brought this up (I should have asked about hospital appointments but I was overwhelmed at the time and just desperate to get the application sent), and seemed to have zero knowledge of diabetes or the scheme.

When looking through my UK prescription to write down all my diabetes meds, he had no clue what was and wasn't for diabetes (I had eczema and asthma medications on as well). He asked me what he needed to do and had to flip to the front of the form to remind himself of the name when writing it down. His English was poor so communication was really difficult. I would have thought a GP would be well accustomed to both the illness and scheme which must be pretty common amongst patients.

So basically I'm kind of resenting going back and spending 60 euro for him just to email the hospital for me. I know I should have asked but he knew I had just arrived in the country and I think a good GP would think to ask this.

I've seen mentioned in places about having appointments with doctors online for 25 euro? Does anyone have any experience of these or know if they could refer me? I wouldn't be so hesitant to go back only he seemed so unprofessional.

Thank you

ohnonotgmail · 09-02-2023 9:37am

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120217086#Comment_120217086

No issue with getting ozempic from my pharmacy. I see there was a reported shortage of the 0.25mg and 0.5mg versions. I am on the 1mg so perhaps that is why i'm not affected

https://www.hpra.ie/docs/default-source/Shortages-Docs/ozempic-shortage_jan-2023_dear-hcp_21dec2022.pdf?sfvrsn=2#:~:text=The%20shortage%20is%20expected%20to,www.hpra.ie).

Dempo1 · 09-02-2023 10:59am

Had my 2nd Nurse appointment at my GP surgery yesterday. Bloods done, feet checked. Loss of feeling in left foot but I've an ongoing separate issue which might be the cause. Next Endo appointment in May, so full bloods being done in advance , I've also got Graves disease (Thyroid) so added complications. Medications seem to be making a difference.

Big relief getting on the LTI scheme. Seeing a chiropodist soon also. Very fortunate to have such a great GP practice 😏

CramCycle · 09-02-2023 2:44pm

G6 user question. On a G6 and I got a 30 day warning this week. They have sent me out a new one in the post already. Do you keep using yours until you are under 10 days? Does the new one only start the countdown after my first time using it?

Galbin · 09-02-2023 2:53pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120218858#Comment_120218858

Are you in Leinster? Wondering if I might have luck ringing a pharmacy down or up the country.

ohnonotgmail · 09-02-2023 3:12pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120220329#Comment_120220329

In dublin. are you on 1mg as well?

banie01 · 09-02-2023 7:22pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120220272#Comment_120220272

If you have less than 10days left on the transmitter it won't allow you to start a new sensor AFAICR. So I tend to run mine until the transmitter expires.

The new one only starts counting down once activated. My usual strategy was to let the active sensor get to it's last day and then swap over to the new sensor and transmitter.

If memory serves you are using yours with a pump? If you are looping I don't know anything at all about that other than there will be 2hrs with no CGM data while the new sensor and transmitter starts up but that's a situation you've already had with normal sensor changes.

I've always found r/Dexcom on Reddit to be a mine of info.

In a related aside, I've got some spare G6 sensors if you need any spares.

CramCycle · 09-02-2023 9:15pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120221328#Comment_120221328

Excellent, that pretty much answers my query. I've also started using xdrip on my mobile. Not on a loop but not far from it. You are right about the 2 hour gap but that's fine, and also why it's not looping as you do need to stay on top of your basal and not just let it auto adjust. Also no need for spares but I appreciate the offer.

banie01 · 10-02-2023 12:56pm

I'm a happy diabetic today 😁

Will get this setup via xdrip later today. I'm looking forward to seeing how it performs. I thing I'll already for anyone coming from a G6? The new applicator is a ⅓ of the size of old one. Similar to a libre sized one.

banie01 · 11-02-2023 11:03am

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120223890#Comment_120223890

For anyone who is going to use the Dexcom G7 with Xdrip+. Some pointers that I hope will help.

1st off, I don't think that Xdrip+ is yet capable of starting the sensor. Not to worry though as there is a work around. You do need to run the native Dexcom app . Which is restricted to only the phones approved by Dexcom.

Again not too much of a worry. I am running the Dexcom app on a Xiaomi and it is working fine.

To use Dexcom app on a non Dexcom approved device, you should use the "Build your own Dexcom App" tool that is created and maintained by u/shabado8 over on Reddit's r/dexcom

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScD76G0Y-BlL4tZljaFkjlwuqhT83QlFM5v6ZEfO7gCU98iJQ/viewform

This is a Google doc that once completed, will email you a link to a modified .apk, install that will bypass the Dexcom compatible devices check. Connect your sensor/transmitter and that's step 1 complete.

Now to be clear, the Dexcom app will do pretty much everything you "need" it to do but, Xdrip integration does offer more particularly in regards to tidepool integration, BG and insulin prediction and other tools.

Now to get your Dexcom G7 data available in Xdrip? Open Xdrip settings, open hardware data source, and switch to "companion app". That's it done, your Dexcom data now populates in your Xdrip+ app.

So far, the only thing that's jumped out at me is that Xdrip+ doesn't pull your insulin data from Dexcom, it's just your BG data. So if you are tracking insulin use and need via Xdrip+? You will need to enter the data directly in the app.

I have been using Xdrip for over a year now and I really do like the info and tweakability of it. That said I am a bit of a numbers and modding nerd. It's not for everyone.

banie01 · 14-02-2023 12:50pm

My darling wife gifted me a 360g Toblerone last night😁. My being a savage with limited self control meant I demolished it inside an hour 😟

Anyway, here's a look at how my wonky pancreas and 45units of Lantus fought back 🤷‍♀️ I started eating around the same time I took my basal.

Self inflicted and stupid... I think next time she buys my chocolate it'll be by the square🤣

Screenshot_2023-02-14-12-45-58-013-edit_com.eveningoutpost.dexdrip.jpg

robinph · 14-02-2023 3:24pm

Self inflicted and stupid, but don't deny yourself indulgence because of a faulty pancreas.

kippy · 23-02-2023 12:27pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120227889#Comment_120227889

Hi Banie01,

I've been using test strips since I was diagnosed T1 a few years ago. I'd tried a couple of free style libre sensors when trying to pin down some night time readings at my own cost.

A few weeks ago another T1 advised me that it was a bit easier now to get the G7 on the LTI - so I made enquiries. The nurse advised me I would need a specifc compatible phone (which I dont have - I have a decent phone but not on the list provided by Dexcom) or I would need to seek funding to get the additional reader that comes with the G7.

Not really in the mood to splash out 350 odd minimum for a compatible phone or wait around for funding.

If I can back and advise I have a compatabil phone will the apps you mention work with the existing phone and sensor? (I am techie so no issues with messing around with apps etc)

Also, on the question of how the sensor communicates with the phone, is it over NFC or some other technology - don't think the phone I have is NFC which might force me into a new one anyway.

Thanks for any advice.

banie01 · 23-02-2023 12:51pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120278801#Comment_120278801

You don't need a compatible phone. Yes the official Dexcom app only works on a limited range of phones but, thanks to a very dedicated developer over on Reddit. We have a tool called BYODA (Build your own Dexcom app) that builds a compatible version of the Dexcom app for you.

https://www.reddit.com/r/dexcom/comments/y4vixk/oc_build_your_own_dexcom_app_update_now_with_g7/

If/when Dexcom support ever ask what phone you are using ? Tell them one from the approved list😉

On connecting G7 to your phone. No need for NFC, the connection is via Bluetooth. 1 piece of advice I'd offer here is, delete each old sensor from your Bluetooth devices list before you pair the new one. Or you will end up with a lot of Dexcom connections within a few months.

All you really need is the BYODA Dexcom app mentioned above. The other apps I have mentioned in my earlier post are great. They can even predict your basal dose for you but they aren't needed unless you want to get into the numbers of managing your carb load, insulin need and lots of other data points.

Any more questions that you think I can help with, fire away.

kippy · 23-02-2023 2:21pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120278900#Comment_120278900

Much appreciated - thanks and best wishes.

uli84 · 23-02-2023 9:16pm

Hi All, I have a question- what are private consultants charging, does anybody know? Thinking of changing from public to private, however, slightly worried..- in case i can’t afford private at some stage would I be able to go back to the public hospital (?)

banie01 · 24-02-2023 3:14pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120281108#Comment_120281108

The last time I saw my Endo privately was in 2016 and that cost me €220. I saw an endo privately for 6 or so years up til then and tbh, it was a waste of money. No change in treatment or anything I didn't or couldn't get on the public system.

Even on the public system, I'd advise cultivating a good relationship with the DNS's at the clinic you're attending. Even without getting to know them, they are always very helpful(my clinic is Limerick) Any time I've had an issue? A phone call to the DNS,a chat through the issue and if needed an appointment for clinic within a week or 2.

I won't say that a private Endo is a waste of money. I will say that you will be paying for blood tests, dietician and every other thing you can be charged for. All without really gaining nothing other than not seeing a registrar at clinic.

xeresod · 24-02-2023 7:18pm

Paid €150 the first time I saw him about 6-7 years ago and €100 each time since

banie01 · 26-02-2023 1:55pm

On the Dexcom G7, I am finding that it is far more sensitive to location/placement than the G6.

I usually wear my sensor on the back of my upper arm. I've so far had 1 die after 3 days (replaced straight away by Dexcom CS) and another is currently not updating. It's displaying a signal loss error.

When I was talking to Dexcom, the agent did mention that they are seeing higher sensor failure rates from patients using sensor on upper arms or areas with thinner fat layer. May well be that abdomen is the best place for the sensor if one has muscular arms.

Donutz · 01-03-2023 10:13am

Have my first clinic since before covid in Limerick today. I am going to enquire about getting a dexcom and perhaps maybe an insulin pump.

I had been self funding freestyle libres and managed to get my hba1c down to 49, but now without them it's back up to 60.

Is there anything I can say to the endo to help my case along the way?

Snake Plisken · 01-03-2023 12:50pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120290324#Comment_120290324

Yeah same for me with over patch I've had 2 G7's peel off, didn't knock against door frame or anything. So i have switched to my stomach and not had any issues. Readings are accurate and not had any problem with them peeling off even when in bed.

I did have a G7 fail on my stomach a few weeks back had a shower and kept getting messages about temporary issue please wait, it would come back for short periods but eventually failed.

Checking some forums it is quite common after 6-7 days. Spoke to Dexcom and they replaced. But for any failed G7's they asked me to keep track of the lot number and one of the serials on the applicator. And actually they are asking me to hold onto the box applicator and failed sensor next time I have an issue they will send out a label for DHL to collect as they want to analyze the failure be it the G7 or the applicator. So recommend keeping the applicator and box in a drawer in case you have an issue.

banie01 · 01-03-2023 1:02pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120301196#Comment_120301196

I've read the same, mainly over on r/Dexcom. 2nd replacement sensor this week arrived today. This time a return box and label arrived for the faulty one too.

I've started just taking a photo of the lot no & serial when I fit a new sensor.

What I do find handy is, if you log the faulty sensor from within the app via the contact us section. You can choose if you want a call back from Dexcom. My latest replacement arrived with no further contact from Dexcom.

Snake Plisken · 01-03-2023 2:18pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120301253#Comment_120301253

Last conversation I had with them they wanted the applicator as well as I was just taking photos of the box llot.numbers and the applicator numbers (take them anyways Incase I have to reinstall the app)

I suppose it depends on who you speak with on their helpdesk.

robinph · 01-03-2023 3:30pm

So I'm shortly due for a replacement pump as my current Tandem t slim is coming up to the end of its warranty. Just had a letter through from the hospital setting out my choices which are Medtronic 780G, Tandem t slim or Omnipod Dash.

I'm currently getting the Libre 2 on prescription and running Android APS in open loop as there is no way to hack things up with the Tandem.

They have said that turning on the Medtronic or Tandem version of closed loop is allowed, but only if I'm already on a CGM, and the Libre doesn't count... And getting the Dexcom (for Tandem) or Guardian (for Medtronic) might take a bunch more jumping through hoops unless I self fund I guess.

Other than the Tandem not being able to close loop with what I have yet I'm very happy with the pump. Does anyone have any significant pros for the Medtronic, or even Omnipod, that might tempt me to switch? Otherwise I think I'll likely stick with the Tandem and hope for getting a Dexcom prescription somehow.

Mumser · 02-03-2023 8:54am

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120301904#Comment_120301904

I’m also interested in peoples’ experiences with the (Tandem & Dexcom) or (Medtronic 780g & Guardian G4) systems. I have a Medtronic 640g & G3 which is out of warranty soon. I believe these are the two setups available here through the HSE. Any comments on either one would be very welcome. Many thanks.

banie01 · 02-03-2023 1:52pm

Folks a question that is probably one that the T1s can answer with more certainty but all opinions welcomed.

Has anyone any experience with splitting their basal dose? I'm currently in a spiral of rising basal and while I can keep going up, I do find that on higher insulin doses I gain weight and that's something I want to avoid.

My only training when I started on insulin was "if you are over 8 in the morning, increase the next night's basal dose and repeat until control is achieved".

I've never done a basal test and if anyone has advice on best method for that? Feel free to share.

My basal is currently 46iu taken at night. The only pattern of note via xdrip and clarity is that I have periods of high BG between 03.30 & 05.00, likely leaky liver or dawn phenomenon. I will be edging the basal up again tonight but, I am wondering if splitting the dose would give a smoother control?

Looking at my numbers it's more likely that a rapid insulin will be added into my regimen but if I can push that out a while via better basal control? I'm game to give it a try.

robinph · 02-03-2023 2:26pm

When I was on multiple injections I had a split of my basal so some in the morning and some in the evening. Cannot now remember the way they split it, but it wasn't an even split.

uli84 · 02-03-2023 8:13pm

Is there any pump available in Ireland that can be controlled (ie- bolus given) from the mobile phone?

ebbsy · 03-03-2023 11:26am

2 odds and ends for ye.

Back from Newcastle after getting the latest scans and mask, no changes since the last visit. Still stable.

My podatrist in Ringsend where I worked disappeared, but I have found somebody really good at home in Monasterevin. She is on the main street.

uli84 · 06-03-2023 6:47pm

Anyone here moved from medtronic to Tslim pump? Are you happy? Thinking of switching as i hate medtronic sensors and their tape but can’t make up my mind

CramCycle · 07-03-2023 8:18am

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120322149#Comment_120322149

I switched and am fairly happy, judging by the reports here, I am happy I am on the G6 rather than the G7 at the minute. It's fairly close to finger pricks and doesn't seem to suffer as long a lag as my sensor with the Medtronic. Its great that if you can't calibrate when it asks that it keeps going as that really bugged me about Mdetronic. I think my only negative is that it really likes to take the slow way to corrections on the loop system so it acts as if the novorapid remains active in me for 5 hours (but experience tells me its a little over 3 for me, everyone is different). The screen has a scratch on it but its only superficial. It does seem to pick up more dust than the Medtronic when you are changing out insulin you can visibly see the dust in the crevices but its only visual and an OCD thing where I have to clean it down each time. No tape for the sensors and so far with the odd exception, they seem as strong if not stronger than the medtronic tape. I have had one or two come off (not fully, just come loose) but after a week and when I got it caught in something or I had lost a few kilos in sweat from a competition.

Tony H · 09-03-2023 1:59pm

just been changed from metformin to Forzega 10 mg , had bad nausea with the metformin and a rash on my shins , any one have any experience of it ?

Kremin · 09-03-2023 8:25pm

Finally been diagnosed with treatment induced neuropathy in diabetics.

10 months in now and still in excruciating pain most of the day. The retinopathy has cleared though but my gastric emptying is still extremely delayed.

even if I just take 1u of insulin and eat I’ll drop before my blood sugar goes up, it then levels off and I’ll get a 2nd spike around 3-4 hours. I can manage this well enough by splitting my bolus doses every time but this has become.. exhausting.. so recently I’ve been skipping the second dose and will just correct it later when I have the mental energy. Life would probably be so much easier on a pump but who knows how long that will take to even apply for.

anyway gotta keep chugging along and pray for improvement

banie01 · 10-03-2023 3:26pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120337291#Comment_120337291

Sorry to hear you've been afflicted with neuropathy Kremin. It can be both very painful and very hard to keep under any kind of control. My main advice would be to ensure that whoever is managing your diabetes, your Endo or your DNS refer you on to your local pain management team.

Best of luck in getting on top of it.

Kremin · 10-03-2023 9:28pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120341223#Comment_120341223

Thanks! I’ll ask about that next time I see the endocrinologist. She is hopeful it will all disappear within a year of good glucose control so I’m trying to stay optimistic. Recently the good days have started to fight back against the dark days but I’m not sure if that’s because I’m improving or just becoming desensitised to it.

banie01 · 11-03-2023 11:01pm

Another G7 sensor failed during warmup.

I've no spare and can't get fresh supplies until Monday. Not a huge inconvenience but the failure rate now is 4 out of 7.

After replacement No1, all sensors have been placed on abdomen as recommended by Dexcom. Since then 3 more sensor failures with 2 of those during initial warm up.

57% failure rate on sensors to date is appalling.

I used G6 for over 12 months and in that time, I think I had 2 but definitely no more than 3 fails. Whereas with the G7, I have had only 3 sensors out of 7 actually run their expected duration.

CramCycle · 14-03-2023 9:07am

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120337291#Comment_120337291

Two things, first, you are a prime candidate for a pump and closed loop system so really hammer that home, it is a risk to your safety with the way you keep dropping. Second, would you be better off dosing after eating. When I was younger I had to do that, eat and then give a shot straight after dinner.

Kremin · 14-03-2023 7:41pm

Hey, thanks for the reply! Yeah the endo said the same, that she’d really like me on one but it caught me off guard so I immediately said no because I didn’t think it’d be compatible with my life (young child loves jumping on me and sleeping were biggest fears) but reading people’s experiences with pumps has changed my view on that. So I will definitely be asking to apply for one or start the process when I next see her at my 1 year review. Yeah I’m experimenting with post bolusing but getting the timing right is tough, sometimes the food hits very quick and sometimes it doesn’t so it’s learning the patterns and adjusting for them at the moment.

the nurses really weren’t happy with me splitting boluses and extremely unhappy with post bolusing so it left me a little lost.

in other news I had my nerve conduction study, didn’t hurt as much as I thought it would but boy was it uncomfortable

CramCycle · 18-03-2023 2:14pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120359075#Comment_120359075

Post bolusing is no different than a correction dose in reality so why they would be annoyed is confusing, better to go a bit higher for a small bit longer than go low and something else happens. The other benefit with post boluses is that if you have a bit more or less than you planned, then you can adapt. Like you said though, the type of food is a big one as well, still the same for me but you learn to either avoid certain foods or change how you treat what on paper should be the same in regards carbohydrates.

I was the same as you and refused the pump when first offered. If you have a young child, it will get ripped out, just the way of things, you will also get it caught on things. Seatbelts seem to be where I have a mental block and often find myself tied to the car. Between the CGM and the adjusting on the fly, it is a no brainer to get it if you can.

feedthegoat · 21-03-2023 11:56pm

Having now got a dexcom 7 am wondering if it is possible to link readings to a garmin watch. Seems there is a Connect app available to download n the US but not here. Any ideas anyone?

CramCycle · 27-03-2023 5:47am

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120386023#Comment_120386023

Don't have the G7 but does the Dexcom Connect app not come through the Irish store, not sure if its G7 compatible though https://support.garmin.com/en-IE/?faq=urGLazwTsJ9qYnC5sC1289

uli84 · 27-03-2023 5:32pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120347593#Comment_120347593

This is worrying, same with my medtronic sensors, the newer they are, the more problems and fails. I don’t understand why, i’d expect newer releases to be better (?)

banie01 · 27-03-2023 5:52pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120407740#Comment_120407740

Today was a sensor change day, the sensor I was wearing lasted the full 10 days and I changed in the grace period. 1st sensor was DOA, failed with "pairing unsuccessful" message.

I contacted Dexcom via the app, replacement sensor will be here in 2 days. Luckily I picked up my repeat prescription on Saturday so I had a new sensor immediately to hand.

Failure rate is still running at almost 60% which is quite concerning.

ohnonotgmail · 04-04-2023 12:22pm

So again this month I am having trouble getting hold of my ozempic. Last month I managed to get some by ringing around the local pharmacies. this time that hasn't worked. The only place that had any is keeping them for their regular customers. does anybody know of any pharmacies in Dublin that have some in stock?

Tony H · 02-05-2023 1:32pm

got my first blood results 3 months after diagnosis today , HbA1c was 59 now 43 , on 10mg forziga a day and cut nearly all processed food , only downer was my b12 levels were low but seem to be heading in the right direction

sorry about bold font

banie01 · 03-05-2023 8:54pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120546592#Comment_120546592

Well done on getting a 43, that's a great result. Its great when you can see changes you make paying off in the long term.

[Diabetes] General Chat and Support Thread

Comments

got my first blood results 3 months after diagnosis today , HbA1c was 59 now 43 , on 10mg forziga a day and cut nearly all processed food , only downer was my b12 levels were low but seem to be heading in the right direction

sorry about bold font