My Near-Death Experience: The Terrifying Early Warning Signs of Fulminant Type 1 Diabetes

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This is a record of the incredibly rapid warning signs I (a 50-year-old man) experienced when I suddenly developed "fulminant Type 1 diabetes" at the end of January 2026. What I assumed was just a common cold or a minor illness turned into a life-threatening nightmare in just a matter of days. Looking back, I deeply realize the vital importance of recognizing the SOS signals our bodies send us before it's too late.

【Summary】

• I experienced firsthand the terrifying, rapid progression of fulminant Type 1 diabetes, which started with a flu-like fever and led to semi-consciousness in just a few days.
• The sports drinks I drank to quench my intense thirst ended up triggering a vicious cycle, sending my blood sugar levels skyrocketing.
• Once my body reached its breaking point, I experienced relentless vomiting and eventually suffered from brain fog so severe that my speech became slurred.

[Warning Signs and Timeline to Emergency Hospitalization]

• Friday: A Fever Around 100°F (38°C): I initially suspected COVID-19 or the flu, but tested negative. By Saturday, my fever broke and I felt normal enough to even go for a routine dental checkup and teeth cleaning.
• Sunday Night: Unbearable Thirst: The fever returned along with a burning, unquenchable thirst. I drank vast amounts of OS-1 (rehydration fluid) and water throughout the night, using the bathroom constantly, until violent vomiting finally began.
• Monday Morning: Chugging Sports Drinks: I left for work, but my throat was so dry I couldn’t wait for the drugstore to open. I stopped by a convenience store and downed a whole 900ml bottle of Pocari Sweat before noon.
• Monday Afternoon: A Dry, Chalk-White Tongue: I threw up in the office restroom at lunch, and with my head spinning, I left work early to see a doctor again. My tongue was bone-dry and completely white, but without a clear diagnosis, I was only prescribed herbal medicine, which did nothing.
• Tuesday: Loss of Consciousness and Emergency Hospitalization: After spending the night trapped in a cycle of drinking water and vomiting it back up, I tried to work from home. However, my speech became slurred, and I started slipping in and out of consciousness. Sensing something was seriously wrong, my wife called an ambulance—a decision that saved my life.
• It was classic diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)...

Upcoming Posts

Next: [My Diabetes Story] Fulminant Type 1 Diabetes (Hospitalization Part 1: ICU)
Part 3: [My Diabetes Story] Fulminant Type 1 Diabetes (Hospitalization Part 2: General Ward)
Part 4: [My Diabetes Story] Fulminant Type 1 Diabetes (Post-Discharge)
 

⚠️ Disclaimer
The blood sugar data and graphs in this article are personal records and reflections, and do not constitute or guarantee medical advice, dietary therapy, or diagnosis. Blood sugar fluctuations and bodily responses vary from person to person. If you are currently undergoing medical treatment or dietary restrictions, please consult your primary physician or a registered dietitian. This blog assumes no responsibility for any actions taken based on this information.

ℹ️ Note for International Readers:
• Portion Sizes: The food portions and nutritional data featured in this blog are based on standard Japanese serving sizes, which may be smaller than typical Western servings.
• Net Carb Calculation: Net Carbs = Total Carbs - Dietary Fiber.

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*Medical Disclaimer: The content on this blog represents the author's personal records for informational purposes only. Always consult with your doctor.