Diabetes management during summer

From eu.coshoctontribune.com
By Emily Marrison

What a scorcher of a week. And though we are experiencing a bit of a reprieve right now, the high temperatures are forecast again later in the week.

People who have diabetes (type 1 and type 2) feel the heat more intensely than those who do not. According to the CDC there are several reasons why this happens.

Diabetes can result in complications that affect the efficiency of several systems in the body. One is damage to blood vessels and nerves that can affect sweat glands. If the body cannot cool as effectively, this could lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

On days when the humidity is also high, it is harder to stay cool because sweat cannot evaporate as well. The heat index, which factors in both temperature and humidity, is a good indication of what the true effects of outdoor conditions might be.

According to Dr. Marwan Hamaty from Cleveland Clinic, “If the heat and your activity make you sweat profusely, you may become dehydrated, leading to a rise in glucose levels. If you become dehydrated, your blood glucose levels will rise. This can lead to frequent urination, which then leads to further dehydration and even higher blood sugar levels — a kind of vicious cycle.”

Since high temperatures change how the body uses insulin, testing blood sugar more often can help make sure it is in the target range. Physical activity can lead to low blood sugars, so people with diabetes in extreme weather conditions are at risk for both low and high blood sugars.

Here is some advice during these hot and humid summer days:

• Drink plenty of water — even if you are not thirsty — so you don’t get dehydrated.
• Avoid alcohol and drinks with caffeine, like coffee and energy or sports drinks. They can lead to water loss and spike your blood sugar levels.
• Check your blood sugar before, during and after you are active. You may need to change how much insulin you use. Ask your doctor if you would like help in adjusting your dosage.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-coloured clothing.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat when you are outside. Sunburn can raise your blood sugar levels.
• Do not go barefoot, even on the beach or at the pool.
• Use your air conditioner or go to an air-conditioned building to stay cool. In very high heat, a room fan will not cool you enough.

Another tip is to keep diabetes medicines, supplies and equipment out of direct sunlight or hot vehicles. Keep any medicines in a cooler when you are traveling. Just be sure not to place insulin directly on a frozen gel pack.

https://eu.coshoctontribune.com/story/news/local/2020/07/12/marrison-diabetes-management-during-summer/5406055002/