Nobody wants to get sidelined with a cold, flu, or infection. And when you have diabetes, feeling unwell can make it even harder to manage your blood sugar.
Diabetes can also make it tougher for your immune system to heal your body. That’s why it’s important to follow these guidelines if you have diabetes and are under the weather.
- Consider adjusting your medicines, if you are eating less than normal. Call your provider to ask how to change your dosing.
- Do your best not to skip meals. Try to eat at least small amounts on a regular schedule. If you can’t eat, try to sip the number of carbs you need through your drink choices.
- Drink water or other liquids that do not have caffeine or calories. This will keep you from getting dehydrated. If you feel queasy or if you’re vomiting, takes small sips every 5 minutes. Try to drink an 8-ounce cup of liquid every hour while you are awake.
- Test your blood sugar every 4 hours, and keep track of the results.
- Weigh yourself daily. Losing weight without trying can be a sign of high blood sugar.
- Check your temperature at least every morning and evening. High temps can be a sign of infection.
Call your healthcare provider or go to the emergency room if:
- If you cannot drink enough fluids
- If you don’t know which medications to stop
- If you don’t know how to adjust your insulin
- If you have been told to check your ketones and they are moderate to high
- If you have any of the following that are not getting better: vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, frequent urination, extreme thirst, weakness, difficulty breathing or fever