How can you check for diabetes without your GP?

[Jay86]

I'd like to check myself for diabetes, I had a check 10 years ago which was negative however I've put on weight since then and have a lot of the symptoms. I can't see my GP without a lot of inconvenience and missing work so is there a way to test for it so I know if it's worth going before I try to make an appointment? I have been googling and can't find much info that doesn't involve seeing a GP or buying a blood glucose meter which seems expensive for something I may not need. Thanks.

[Hidden]

If I were in your position Jay86 , I wouldn’t hesitate to see a doctor. Don’t take your health for granted. The hassle of getting an appointment with your GP cannot be worse than the hassle of dealing with ill-health, surely?

Having said that, you are in the right place when it comes to losing weight. Our lovely admin team are not medically trained, so I doubt they can tell you much more than I can about diabetes diagnosis, but they can tell you everything you need to know to get yourself on the right track to lose weight. Good luck.

[IndigoBlue61]

Good to hear from you again Jay86

That’s good advice from TrimmerTeacher, please try to see someone

Best wishes

Anna

[Jay86]

I appreciate what you're saying, only I'm not concerned enough at the moment to want to take up my doctors time with what's probably just me worrying about nothing. I've had symptoms for years and I'm still alive 👍

[Susie54 in reply to Jay86]

Okay go speak to the local pharmacist (in your lunch break?) you may be able to buy a dipstick kit to test your urine (which is what the doc would do). Other option is to see the practice nurse for advice (but I know they’re busy too)... can you not work through lunchtimes to earn enough time to leave early for the appt????

[Jay86 in reply to Susie54]

That's a good idea thanks, I don't think I have to worry about breaks though I can probably see a pharmacist at the weekend 😁

[Hennypenny1]

Hi Jay86

I am diabetic and one of the main things I noticed was I was so thirsty all the time even though I was drinking like a fish! I think you can go into your local chemist for a glucose check, they should have a private booth for you to go in to discuss your problems. At least you can go on a Saturday so not to interrupt your work. Hope I have been able to help you.

[Jay86 in reply to Hennypenny1]

Thank you! It's the being thirsty all the time that's been worse lately that's why I'm a bit more motivated to find out 👍