A 49-year-old man in Taichung, surnamed Lin, recently experienced excessive thirst and unexplained weight loss. A medical check revealed his blood sugar had skyrocketed to 600 mg/dL, with HbA1c over 13%, leading to a diagnosis of acute diabetes and hospitalization, leaving him feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. Meanwhile, a 52-year-old woman, surnamed Chang, with a family history of diabetes, was also found to have elevated fasting blood sugar and HbA1c levels, raising concerns about future complications. Fortunately, both patients were able to restore their blood sugar to normal levels through a combination of dietary control, regular exercise, and prescribed medication.
Dr. Zhuang Zong-Ru, a metabolic specialist at Taichung Armed Forces General Hospital, noted that many patients are alarmed when first diagnosed with high blood sugar. Hearing the word “diabetes” can make people feel life has changed forever. However, with proper treatment and lifestyle management, diabetes can be controlled.
Lin, an office worker, had thought his persistent thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue were due to work stress. It wasn’t until his symptoms worsened that he sought emergency care, leading to the shocking discovery of severe hyperglycemia. Under medical guidance, Lin followed a structured diet, exercised regularly, and adhered to his medication schedule. Three months later, his HbA1c dropped to 5.6%, and his fasting blood sugar returned to normal levels.
Similarly, Chang, who had recently experienced thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue, was diagnosed with an HbA1c of 10.2% and fasting blood sugar of 264 mg/dL. Concerned about potential complications, she worked closely with her medical team, adopting a low-carb, high-fiber diet, reducing refined starches and sugary drinks, and walking five times a week for at least 30 minutes per session. With consistent blood sugar monitoring and treatment, her levels normalized within three months.
Dr. Zhuang emphasized that symptoms such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue may indicate diabetes and should be promptly evaluated. With proper management, patients can significantly improve their quality of life.
