After receiving and reviewing Taylor’s family history, vital signs and blood analysis results, Dr. Waring diagnoses Taylor with type 2 diabetes. However, in his head, Dr. Waring is diagnosing Taylor with “diabesity” – type 2 diabetes brought on by obesity – but this is not a scientifically recognized diagnosis. Dr. Waring also expresses concern regarding Taylor’s above normal blood pressure and cholesterol readings.
Knowing that Taylor’s father, Stewart, also has type 2 diabetes, Dr. Waring takes the opportunity to educate the family. He explains to the Jones family that diabetes is when the body is unable to use glucose due to a lack of insulin, or an inability to use insulin correctly. Dr. Waring provides an example, potato chips and soda – two of Taylor’s favorites. He tells him that when potato chips and soda are digested, they are broken down into glucose. The excess glucose in the blood causes Taylor’s blood sugar levels to spike upward so that energy is unable to enter his body’s cells and Taylor is left feeling tired. His vision problems and slowly healing cut are also caused by this same body function.
Dr. Waring asks the family to watch the video below to understand how type 2 diabetes caused Taylor’s problems.
As part of his treatment, Dr. Waring prescribes Taylor 500 mg of Metformin, an oral medication, two times a day for 90 days to Taylor. If Taylor’s results do not improve in 90 days, he will need to begin daily insulin injections. Dr. Waring goes on to explain to the family that Taylor, like many people with diabetes, may experience depression and/or anxiety due to his diminished quality of life. He may miss more school which may affect his grades and adds stress to his life. Taylor’s treatment should also include self-care activities to improve his mental health. Self care is different for everyone but may include activities such as listening to music, deep breathing, journaling, walking and spending time with friends. Finally, if Taylor does not begin to eat a healthier, low calorie diet and an exercise program, then he will also be placed on medication for high cholesterol and high blood pressure.