My BG level increases by a factor of 2 (average 140 increases to 300+) when I am stressed by physical illness or the losses incurred due to emotional or financial problems.

When I was hospitalized this year for 5 days for neurological testing, I received insulin shots for the first time. A few weeks later, I had a skin cancer removed from my neck (2nd occurrence over 30 years.) Now I have shingles for 6 weeks so far, and am on oxygen for emphazymia. I am also a Type 2 diabetic, and arthritic.

Any suggestions? I have a therapist to talk about these stresses for years but still haven't learned to deal with stress.

I am 65, diagnosed as bipolar in 1980, diabetic in 1995, 165 lb, 5 foot 6 inches. I am an intelligent woman (Lesbian) socially & politically active before becoming disabled, but neuropsych testing confirmed my fears -moderate loss of cognitive abilities: mostly short term memory and inability to recall words (especially nouns) when I want them. I worked as an economic researcher and Professor until 1993 (age 53) when I could no longer work. I have done some volunteer work but I quit whenever I am too sick meet schedules.

I fear my life will not be long and want to make the most of the years that are left, but I am often too sick to leave the house.