A bit nervous.... - Diabetes Message Board

rainbowdawn · 08-16-2005, 02:15 PM

I just got a call and need to go discuss my lab results with my doctor. I guess my A1c test was high. Does this mean that I have diabetes? Thanks! She said my thyroid test was also high, are they connected in any way?

trekgirl · 08-16-2005, 04:55 PM

No, the diabetes is the liver connection. Thyroid is located elsewhere and not related. Best to get with the doctor and get information from the tests and what it all actually means. Good luck.

Linda1629 · 08-16-2005, 07:54 PM

This is a copy and paste from journal.diabetes.org:

Diabetic patients have a higher prevalence of thyroid disorders compared with the normal population (Table 1). Because patients with one organ-specific autoimmune disease are at risk of developing other autoimmune disorders, and thyroid disorders are more common in females, it is not surprising that up to 30% of female type 1 diabetic patients have thyroid disease. The rate of postpartum thyroiditis in diabetic patients is three times that in normal women. A number of reports have also indicated a higher than normal prevalence of thyroid disorders in type 2 diabetic patients, with hypothyroidism being the most common disorder.

The presence of thyroid dysfunction may affect diabetes control. Hyperthyroidism is typically associated with worsening glycemic control and increased insulin requirements. There is underlying increased hepatic gluconeogenesis, rapid gastrointestinal glucose absorption, and probably increased insulin resistance. Indeed, thyrotoxicosis may unmask latent diabetes.

vikingirl · 08-16-2005, 08:38 PM

Hi there, Rainbowdawn,

At a basic level, they are connected in that are both endocrine disorders, with diabetes being the most common.

A high A1C probably means you've encroached into the world of diabetes on some level but the key is understanding where you are at. Diabetes treatments run the gammut from making better lifestyle choices to having to supply your body with insulin. Try not to be nervous as 97% fall into the lifestyle category. Taking many things into account, your doctor is the best person to explain the best course of action to get you back on track.

Elevated thyroid levels could signal something going on and, like diabetes, types & treatments run the gammut with many being extremely common. But again, your doctor is the best person to put things into perspective.

I've been hypothyroid for 20 years and diagnosed Type1 diabetic this Jan05. and I'm 37 y/o. I'm not sure exactly how they are connected scientifically (other than metabolically/cellularly) but my Endocrinologist is the one who determines my medication levels for both thyroid meds and insulin levels. Until I went Type1 (requiring the need of a specialist), I was always treated by my family doctor who followed practiced guidelines.

Some background on thyroid & diabetes:
Diabetes is correctly divided into two major subgroups: Type 1 diabetes and Type 2 diabetes. This division is based upon whether the blood sugar problem is caused by insulin deficiency (Type 1) or insulin resistance (Type 2). Insulin deficiency means there is not enough insulin being made by the pancreas due to a malfunction of their insulin producing cells. Insulin resistance occurs when there is plenty of insulin made by the pancreas (it is functioning normally and making plenty of insulin) but the cells of the body are resistant to it's action which results in the blood sugar being too high.

The sole function of the thyroid is to make thyroid hormone. This hormone has an effect on nearly all tissues of the body where it increases cellular activity. The function of the thyroid therefore is to regulate the body's metabolism.

So, take heart in that, while you may be having to look at some lifestyle changes, all will be well. Hope this helps some.

Cheers,
- Vikingirl

Roxx · 08-16-2005, 11:09 PM

What a nice, encouraging and down to earth reply, Vikingirl! More of this type of posting is needed, I do believe; too much doom and gloom and trying to scare people of their minds going on around here.

I hope "all will be well" for everyone here, I just liked your particular phrasing.

Cheers to you, too

......Roxanne