Pancreas Damage??????????

Back in 2000 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and diabetes.  My diabetes was treated only by diet until I started Chemo therapy which I had to start taking med for the diabetes.  The Chemo put me into early menopause.  Since the chemo caused the early menopause, does anyone know if it could of damaged my pancreas and maybe that is why I still have diabetes after my RNY?????

I can't answer you about the cause for your diabetes still sticking around post op. other than it sounds like you had it pretty bad because of all of the medications that you were on.  I am a Realize Band patient and was on Actos 30 mg., Byetta 5 2X/day, and sometimes I still had to add a small dose of Glyburide.  After losing 35 pounds, eating mostly protein with very little carbs and exercising vigorously 4 - 6 days per week I am currently off all medications for diabetes except 50 mg. Januvia as needed maybe 2X/week. 

I have read that sometimes it is a good idea to give your Pancreas a break and go on insulin for a while so it can take a rest.  Byetta, Januvia, Glyburide and other medications simply force your pancreas to produce more insulin.  Eventually, the organ just wears out.  I would suggest talking to your doctor about this and see if he can confirm or deny that approach. 

For me, exercise is essential.  Without it my sugar goes through the roof.  How is your exercise?  Are you at least walking every day or most days? 

Good luck!  Greg

Thanks Greg,

I have an appt with my doctor this month and I will talk to
him about testing my pancreas function as well as the
possibility of going on insulin for a while.

Gina

Gina: that sounds like the smart thing to do.  You didn't answer me about the exercise or walking...well, are you?  It is a must if you are not.  I know it can be overwhelming to begin a new thing but just start out slow maybe on 10 minutes and gradually increase.  I bet by the end of July you could walk for almost an hour.  Good luck.

Yes, I have started back up my deep water areobics Class 3x a week (I was hosptialized back in January).  I also need to start walking again.

Gina