Sick Day Guidelines For Diabetics

When you are living with diabetes, managing your blood sugar levels is a daily task. However, when illness strikes, it can create significant changes to your blood sugar levels, making it even more essential to manage your diabetes effectively during these sick days. So, what should you do when you're unwell and have diabetes? Here are some guidelines to follow.

Frequent Monitoring of Blood Sugar Levels

When ill, check your blood glucose level more frequently - ideally every four hours. This constant monitoring can help you make necessary adjustments to your food intake and medication dosage.

Maintaining Hydration and Nutrition

Dehydration can occur quickly when you're unwell. It's crucial to drink ample fluids like water or clear broths. If unable to eat normally, consume easy-to-digest carbohydrates to prevent hypoglycaemia.

Continuation of Diabetes Medication

Unless directed by a doctor, continue taking your diabetes medications as usual. Even if you're eating less due to illness, the body still requires insulin.

Awareness of Diabetic Ketoacidosis Symptoms

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication that can occur if high blood sugar is not treated promptly. Symptoms include excessive thirst,Drowsiness, Fruity odor on breath and urination, nausea, abdominal pain, and confusion. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms appear.

Preparation of a Sick Day Kit

Having a sick day kit ready with essentials like glucose meters, extra batteries, ketone test strips, glucose tablets, and necessary medications can simplify diabetes management during illness.

Following these guidelines and being part of a structured programme like Apollo Super 6 that provides ongoing support can help you manage diabetes efficiently even on sick days.