New here; question about Neuropathy and triglycerides

sharper1or2 · #1 (**permalink**) 02-14-2004, 09:08 PM

Hi all!

Maybe someone can help a 'newbie' like me out.
I have been posting on a peripheral neuropathy forum since November when I was diagnosed with small fiber PN.
Of course, the first question I'm asked is I have diabetes, which I don't (so far anyway). However, there is a strong paternal side history.
I had a consult with new neuro m.d. yesterday, and he is wanting a fasting glucose tolerance test along with a fasting triglyceride draw. He will schedule a nerve tissue biopsy soon, as well. I really trust this doctor, as he seems to want to get to the bottom of this, especially since I have had these symptoms for at least 15 years and now they seem to be progressing more rapidly. I had given up going to Dr.s for this, as no one could figure it out. An EMG showed negative results, but my neuro checks on hands and feet are abnormal.
What would the triglyceride draw show? If that is high and the tolerance test is positive, could it mean that I have diabetes, but it's not manifested in standard tests like A1C, or others?

Any thoughts.....guess I'm kinda confused!

Sabrina

Shalyndria · #2 (**permalink**) 02-14-2004, 10:50 PM

Hi Sabrina, and welcome to the Forums. This place is filled with helpful people so I'm sure all of your questions will be answered or advice given to help you find those answers.

OK let me give you the standard, layman's version of the fasting triglycerides. Triglycerides are large fat molecules (lipids) composed of three molecules of fatty acid and one molecule of glycerol and are carried in the bloodstream by lipoproteins. Some disorders can cause lipid levels to increase; diabetes that is poorly controlled or renal failure can cause total cholesterol or triglyceride levels to increase. Because consuming food or beverages may cause triglycerides to increase temporarily, a person must fast at least 12 hours prior to a blood sample. Triglyceride levels higher than 150 mg/dL are considered abnormal, but do not automatically point to diabetes. Which is where the GTT comes into play. But only your doctor can decide the diagnosis as a result of any tests taken, so don't count your chickens before they hatch.
You're fortunate to have found a thorough doctor, so trust him to know the outcome and any treatment you may or may not require. In the meantime, we're all here to help!

Shy

sharper1or2 · #3 (**permalink**) 02-15-2004, 01:03 PM

Thank you, Shy!

How did you come to know so much about triglycerides? I'm impressed!
I have heard of, because I have relatives including my father, grandfather, uncles, aunts, etc......, that you can have early signs of diabetes for years, before it shows in your blood work. Thirst, urinary frequency, etc. This is the case with many of my relatives. But I haven't come across any of them who have PN, as a matter of fact, none of them do, even my dad who was diagnosed for 25 years. That's what seems odd to me, I guess.
I will be patient, and wait to see what the test results show. I should be able to do those Tues or Wed. this week. I will let you know more when I do.....

Thanks for your help and encouragement!

Smiles,

Sabrina

Shalyndria · #4 (**permalink**) 02-15-2004, 07:36 PM

Glad I could be of some help, Sabrina. My college education was medical with a unit clerk specialty, which is something like an RN, although I don't have a BSc so I can't dispense meds, do IV's, etc. but I have an in depth knowledge of medicine, terminology, pathology, physiology, etc. So hey, if I can impress someone then the thousands of dollars worth of schooling was worth it lol!

Yes please keep all of us updated. Your optimistic attitude is great!

Shy

sharper1or2 · #5 (**permalink**) 02-16-2004, 05:34 PM

Well, my triglycerides were 38 and FBS was 85 this am. I will find out the results of the 2 hour draw tomorrow. But so far, it's good news.
I can't wait to find out something, because I starting to feel worse very rapidly. I post on another forum for PN, and it's been interesting to gather info from that group on all the different experiences people have with PN. If others want the site address, I will locate it.
Will get back to you tomorrow, Shy. Trying to keep that 'chin up'.:p

Sabrina

Shalyndria · #6 (**permalink**) 02-16-2004, 08:13 PM

Great to hear the good new Sabrina! Although I'm sure it's something of a double-edged sword for you to hear that this isn't it, at least it's one less worry!

Good luck and keep me posted! I think you're doing a great job of keeping your chin up so pat yourself on the back and keep smiling!

Shy

sharper1or2 · #7 (**permalink**) 02-17-2004, 08:16 PM

Well, phew!........
My 2 hour GTT draw was 96! So I just need to wait for the nerve tissue biopsy to be done and read. In the meantime, I was so miserable today, I needed to see my neuros nurse and pick up some Celebrex which took the edge off for awhile.
I'm not sure how appropriate it would be to continue posting here as I probably don't have diabetes.
You're very compassionate, Shy, but I don't want to take up your time when you have other diabetic persons who need your counsel more than me! So maybe I should say good-bye????

Smiles,

Sabrina

rzrbks · #8 (**permalink**) 02-17-2004, 09:32 PM

Sabrina,

you could still post here, who knows ? You might get lucky and still get to join the "Club." j/k

Besides, all Shy and _Alaska_ do is run around flashing everyone anyway so---the more the merrier

sharper1or2 · #9 (**permalink**) 02-18-2004, 03:26 PM

No offense, but I don't think it's a club I'd feel lucky to join!

LOL
However, if it were to happen some day, I would be right back here in a split second, as it's an encouraging place to be!

Sabrina

Shalyndria · #10 (**permalink**) 02-18-2004, 05:25 PM

Fantastic news, Sabrina!!

I'm so glad to hear you're GTT turned out well, and I'm hoping you'll let us all know how the biopsy turns out when you get the results.

Stick around, Sabrina! Just cause you're not diabetic doesn't mean you have nothing to contribute!! Like it says, "a place to let others know we care"......although you'll need to keep a sharp eye out for Alaska running around in a dress flashing people, and rzr sharpening his flagging wit on the rest of us poor sobs.....

Shy

sharper1or2 · #11 (**permalink**) 02-19-2004, 03:58 PM

Well, okay then! I will stick around and try to contribute when I can. Thanks for the invite!
Maybe my experience with working with an opthalmologist who is a retina specialist will be of some help. I work with diabetic patients almost every day. However, I'm sure if you've been diabetic for awhile, you know all about diabetes effects on the eyes.
But, if I can answer any questions, let me know.....I'd be happy to help:p ! Besides, you seem like a 'fun bunch' for me to come and ask questions as well!

Keep smilin'

Sabrina

Shalyndria · #12 (**permalink**) 02-19-2004, 04:13 PM

Right on!!

And if you ever want to drop me a line, I'm only a PM away...

Shy

sharper1or2 · #13 (**permalink**) 02-20-2004, 04:59 PM

Thanks, Shy!

I'll keep that in mind!

I will check this board now and then; we have a lot on our plate as my dad was diagnosed with a brain tumor. This diagnosis was made 3 months ago, and it's been pretty complicated since then with how it's been handled. I'm in the middle of getting him a 2nd opinion at the 'U'. Anyway, my sisters and I are to trying to wade through the murkey waters with him, so that's where my focus will be for the most part in the future.
Anyway, God is good, and I know things will work out as they are supposed to!

Smiles to you.....and maybe I'll check back more than I think I might and see how you all are doing!

Sabrina