BPCC Success Story: Gilberto

Gilberto was first seen in the Buena Park Community Clinic approximately two months ago. He was brought in by his wife who reported Gilberto has a history of diabetes. He was checked into the clinic and vital signs and blood sugar were measured. At that moment, he was perspiring profusely without physical cause, and appeared very tired and lethargic. Gilberto reported feeling thirsty all the time while also stating that he was urinating frequently during the day.  His blood pressure and heart rate were elevated; his blood sugar results were 523(<140 being normal), and Hemoglobin AIc was greater than 15.

Our first goal was blood sugar control.

Gilberto lacked the equipment to monitor his blood sugar and he was provided with a glucometer, instructed in the use and documentation of blood glucose level.

Diabetic education was initiated and he was asked to return in two weeks for a follow up. Gilberto was given prescription for Metformin, Glypizide and Lisinopril.

On his next visit his blood sugar has dramatically improved, decreasing to the 200 level, but it was still not in good control. Gilberto reported feeling much better, but understood work still needed to be done.

On this visit, cholesterol level   was checked, results required he start cholesterol medication (Lovastatin and aspirin), and a follow up visit was scheduled for two weeks.

At the next visit, Gilberto reported his blood sugars had been trending in the 140-150’s. He stated that he was feeling much better, his blood  pressure had improved, and he was sleeping better as well as experiencing renewed energy. At the following Vision Expo, he and his entire family visited to have an eye exam, each receiving a pair of new glasses and becoming more aware of their eye health.

Gilberto has consented to have his story shared with the community; he has shown how with corrective action and education, diabetes can be successfully managed, improving quality of his health and his life.