Intro for Joe Dunfee

[Guest guest]

I just joined the list, so here is my intro;

Joe Dunfee, Lancaster PA, USA, 39 years old

Type I diabetes since age 22

Slight build, 135 lbs, 5'7 "

No health issues until I developed the diabetes.

Currently being evaluated for Mito

5 years ago, I developed some digestive problems, which were

automatically attributed to complications from diabetes. Mainly it

was stomach not emptying properly at times, intermittent diarrhea,

but all fairly mild. Then there were some fatigue issues, which got

much worse last year. A year ago I briefly took an antibiotic to

treat what was believed to be a bacterial blooming within my

intestines, and within 2 days felt better than I had in years. But

as months passed, it became apparent that I was not fully recovering.

Over the past year, symptoms have varied and changed, though overall

the trend is towards improvement. Here is a rough sequence.

Jan-Mar - periodic, unexplained " short of breath " as though I had

done something strenuous.

Jan-Mar mostly and periodically since then - A swelling sensation

just

above and to the sides of my adam's apple

Entire year - Easily fatigued. I used to be able to mow a fairly large

lawn, but over the past few years even my new home's small yard

is too much for me.

Entire Year - Periodic fullness in my stomach from food not moving on.

Last 6 mos - Occasionally feeling light headed when rising. It has

been

worse over the last 3 months and is becoming a problem.

Tests done;

A zillion blood work tests, negative for Epstein-barr, thyroid and

other likely problems.

-Cardiac Stress Test (OK)

-Sleep Study (mostly OK, Technician noted many episodes of shallow

breathing.)

-MRI of neck, thyroid (OK)

-Breathing function test, Breathing stress test (Lactic acid was

detected at earlier levels of exertion than it should have)

-Nerve conduction (Dr says nerves are in better condition than

average

for the number of years I've had diabetes)

-Blood work recently showed slightly elevated levels of lactate and

pyruvate.

I have a deep muscle biopsy tomorrow AM, and I will keep you all

posted on the results.

Joe Dunfee