Runny nose. Upset stomach. Whatever illness it is, it can make you feel miserable. It is hard enough to be under the weather but it is even more difficult to handle being sick if you have diabetes.
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), people with diabetes who develop an illness are at risk for serious complications if they don’t take care of their diabetes. Blood glucose levels can increase or decrease to dangerous levels if left unchecked.
Ketones, a waste product created when the body begins to use stored fat for energy, can build up, especially in those with type 1 diabetes, if a person does not take insulin at regular intervals. Left unmonitored, high ketone levels can lead to ketoacidosis, which can lead to coma or death.
“People with diabetes have special considerations when they are under the weather,” commented Ann Albright, PhD, RD, American Diabetes Association President, Health Care & Education. “It is important to have a plan with your health care team in place before you become sick, to avoid getting worse. It is also critical to get a flu shot every year to potentially avoid getting influenza.”
The American Diabetes Association offers tips to manage diabetes if you are under the weather:
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Materials provided by American Diabetes Association. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.
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