When the mercury soars, this can have an impact on the way your diabetes affects your body. It’s vital to be aware of the potential problems and how to combat them.
The Dangers of Summer Temperatures
Extreme outside temperatures lead to sweating and the potential for dehydration, which can make it harder for your body to absorb insulin. As a result, this can lead to spiking glucose levels.
However, there is also a risk of hypoglycemia. Those who like to exercise and do outdoor activities may end up developing low blood sugar as their muscles use up available glucose supplies.
You should also be aware that the heat can damage insulin and their diabetic testing supplies. This may make medications less effective and lead to false test results.
Protect yourself with these five tips for dealing with the heat.
[trendingtopicsrelated]
#1 Stay Hydrated
Keep bottled water with you at all times and take sips throughout the day. This will help prevent dehydration.
#2 Adjust Your Medication
If you are an active person, work with your doctor to adjust your insulin dosage on hot days. You may not need as much of this medication, or other diabetic drugs during the summer.
#3 Protect Your Meds
Keep your diabetic supplies in a cooler to help maintain a stable temperature. Avoid placing the medication in direct contact with ice, as freezing can also damage insulin. You should also take care to protect your insulin pump from the weather.
#4 Keep Glucose on You
If you are prone to hypoglycemia, consider keeping some glucose tablets on hand to take. You may also want to have some carbohydrate-rich snacks in the car to help keep your blood sugars up.
#5 Stay Safe from the Sun
Wear plenty of sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn. When this happens, it puts stress on your body and can cause an increase in blood sugar levels. You may also want to avoid going out during the hottest part of the day.
[article1]
[expand title=”References“]
How to Manage Your Diabetes When It’s Hot Outside. URL Link. Accessed August 11th, 2017.
How to Manage Your Diabetes in Extreme Summer Heat. URL Link. Accessed August 11th, 2017.
[/expand]
