[Synergy]

Both of my parents are type 2 Diabetics. I have some few symtoms of PCOS. (IMO) My hair falls out, I love carbs, and I can't seem to lose weight at all and I gained weight very easily. How do I bring it up to my doctor that I want to get checked out for PCOS and should I start following a diabetic diet?

[witchyonadiet]

Why would you follow a diabetic diet ? Are you diabetic ? PCOS can have many symptoms that mirror other illnesses. A PCOS diagnosis can be made without testing at all - mine was. You need to mention to your doctor that you are concerned and see what he/she thinks. Not all doctors are up on PCOS but the things you mentioned - on their own - do not seem to indicate PCOS imo.

[MissGiggles]

I would go get tested, I would just explain to your doctor the symptoms and the reasoning why but since you have a family history then they should be testing you anyway.

Many with pcos find they can only lose weight on a low carb diet and some follow a diabetic diet just to prevent it from going into full blown type 2

[witchyonadiet]

Synergy,

I apologize - that came out harsher than I meant it to - I'm having a really bad day.
What I meant to say was - if you don't know you have diabetes or IR or PCOS and you are concerned that you may have one or more - you need to discuss it with your doctor and get an actual diagnosis. There are other reasons for some of the things you describe - like a thyroid issue. You could just have trouble losing weight and love carbs like many people. Reduced carb is a very good way to get IR or Diabetes Type II under control but my concern is that some people think reduced carb means ridiculously low carb and that is a mistake as your body needs good carbs. I'd check with your doctor and then after a determination is made about a diagnosis or lack of one - perhaps he could refer you to a nutritionist.

Again - sorry about the *****y post - really bad day.

[PretzelLogic]

Given your genetic predisposition and symptoms you are describing, I would definitely recommend getting tested. Another question to ask yourself - are your periods irregular? My were from age 18 on. I just chalked it up to being one my personal idosyncrasies. I was 35 before anyone ever even heard of PCOS.

The primary tool for testing PCOS / IR is a glucose tolerance test. 3 blood samples are taken: 1 after a fast (no food after midnight), you are given a sugary drink, then 2 more samples are taken 1 hour later and 2 hours later. If your sugar levels show normal, but insulin levels are abnormally high, then you have Insulin Resistance (IR) and most likely PCOS.

You can locate a doctor in your area who specializes in PCOS on this website:
http://www.pcosupport.org/membership/professionals.php

If that doesn't help, I would start with a good endocrinologist. They can diagnose and treat IR.

[Synergy]

Don't worry wichyonadiet, We all have very bad days. The reason why I had posted my question, because I read the article about PCOS, and some red flags showed up. However, I am going to the dr's on thursday, and I am going to get myself tested.
~Take care

[Moni28]

Hi, The period thing was a huge indicator for me. I was VERY regular, on the dot until i turned 18 and then I was all out of whacked! There are many other symptoms you could always have. Just mention it along with any other concerns *like your parents* Good luck!