Question:
Can diabetes reoccur post-op?

I am a 54-year-old lady, open rny 4/5/00 with absolutely no complications--- the whole thing has been a song and a dance of joy, actually--- and have lost 110 pounds through careful protein intake, including powdered protein and lots of jerky. *smile* I have been most fortunate. However: pre-op, I was on two shots of insulin a day, and was KIND OF under control. Since the hospital, my blood glucose and long-term tests have been perfect. Then, a couple of days ago, I noticed the old burning in my feet--- and got scared, took a reading, and found my sugar at 214! Mamma Mia. OK, I had a *very* lax holiday season; I realized I could eat a few cookies, and I have also been eating those Viactiv calcium chews like they were going out of style. AND didn't have time for the treadmill or the gym. So: of course I am tightening up totally again, but has anyone experienced a reoccurance of diabetes, after it has been gone so long? Had to take medecine again? Whew, I have sinned bigtime. I feel terrified... and you guys have been such help before... Have I screwed up irrevokably??    — KC C. (posted on January 4, 2001)

February 4, 2002
I hope this helps. As a nursing student I have learned that once you are a diabetic, you will always be a diabetic. But, the weight loss and the amount of food (carbs, and sugars) that you will intake may make it possible that you won't need to take insulin. There are many things that trigger diabetic symptoms. If you watch what you eat, and exercise according to your doctor's orders It will be easier to maintain and you may never need to take insulin again. There are no guarantees in life. The diets we eat now help to maintain a healthy lifestyle which helps control the diabetes. There are just too many factors involved to say that 15 years down the road you won't need any insulin. Good luck. I hope this answers your question.
   — Carla C.

January 8, 2003
I had surgery on 7/24/02 and was a diabetic. I have had lab work done every three months and no sign of diabetes. My physican said that I will probably not get it again since my pancrease is now creating the insulin that I need. I have all test repeated because I want to make sure. That's the reason I had the surgery to begin with.
   — L V.