I have had a J-pouch since 2005. I have chronic pouchitis. I believe I am developing diabetes, as I have several of the common symptoms. My family dr. is skeptical, as my blood tests show pre-diabetes only. But other symptoms (peripheral neuropathy and urination difficulties) are worsening. Does anyone know if pouchitis makes it more difficult to diagnose diabetes through the usual blood tests ?
Replies sorted oldest to newest
If your chronic pouchitis is being treated it’s more likely that your symptoms are medication side effects than some sort of invisible diabetes. What meds are you taking?
Hi Scott. I had short-term flagyl many years ago and sporadic short-term cipro in more recent years, the last in late 2017. I try to avoid antibiotics in favor of VSL#3. That's all I take now, with admittedly dubious results.
I guess you could have B12 deficiency, which sometimes causes numbness. I’m assuming you’re not anemic, since that’s probably been tested, but has your B12 been assessed? Heck, does your doctor have any ideas about what might be going on?
I was low on B12 but am now on supplements. Seen several specialists with no diagnosis yet. A neurologist is next. It's rather frustrating. I think I need Dr.House at this point.
Gary, make sure they re-check the B12 after some time on supplements. If your supplements are oral it’s possible you won’t absorb them adequately, and will need injectable B12.
As for the urination difficulties, how is your prostate? Some urination difficulties are very common in men as the years proceed.
I had prostate surgery in 2014. Not cancer. It didnt help, and likely made things worse. Thanks for the advice re B12. I'm 68 and live in Ontario, Canada. Cheers.
As Scott says; B12 is really important as it aids many of the processes in the human body. It's surprising how easy it is for Health Care Professionals to miss low levels of B12, D3 etc. The body stores quite a bit of B12; but when they make the pouch they remove the bit that absorbs B12.
Thanks for the feedback!
