
October 19, 2005
Hyperglycemia and DKA, Other
Question from California, USA:
A 15 year old girl is suddenly having highs. They are not related to menses. She follows an extremely controlled diet and carbohydrate counts well. We’ve ruled out pump problems. Could the highs be due to hormonal shifts of adolescents?
Answer:
There certainly are a myriad of possible explanations. Adolescent “hormonal shifts” may contribute, but much more typically are associated with the menstrual cycle.
On the other end of a spectrum, and unfortunately far too common, is the adolescent who is subconsciously (or not!) undermining the plan and being a bit dishonest with themselves and parents about proper dosing either by bolus, basal, or corrections or meal planning or changing sites, or others. What does her own diabetes team have to say?
DS