With temperatures soaring these days, we have all experienced its effects. Along with sunburn, this heatwave is causing other health problems. Heat waves are harmful for people with chronic conditions, especially for people with diabetes. For diabetics, it is difficult for them to control their sugar levels and this can lead to heat exhaustion. They need to check their sugar level on a regular basis to know their urgency level. It can lead to more serious complications if not controlled at the right time. BeatO app’s diabetes health coach Sujata Sharma explained how heat can affect people with diabetes. Read on to find outAlso read – Watch out for these 3 early signs and symptoms of diabetes
Heatwave and Diabetes – How Do They Relate?
When the heatwave is combined with moisture, it feels worse. When it is moist, sweat does not usually evaporate. This will make it harder for diabetics to stay cool and control their sugar levels. Diabetes can damage your nerves and blood vessels which can make you more susceptible to heat exhaustion. It also affects your sweat glands which makes it difficult for you to cool your body. Warm temperatures can also affect how your body uses insulin. It can make you sensitive to both high and low sugar levels. Also read – Mango leaves have many benefits in controlling diabetes
If you have diabetes, you may feel more dehydrated than a person who does not have diabetes. Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, headache, increased thirst, fatigue, dizziness, etc. Dehydration can lead to an increase in your sugar levels. As a result, you may also experience frequent urination. Also read – Delhi to get big relief: Heatwave conditions to ease from June 11, drizzle likely from Saturday
Heatwave and Diabetes – Symptoms
If you have diabetes, you may experience the following symptoms during a heatwave:
- Fatigue
- Cold or moist skin
- Low blood pressure
- headache
- Fast and weak pulse
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness
- Excessive sweating
These symptoms should not be ignored and you should take all preventive measures to prevent the situation from getting worse.
Heatwave and Diabetes – Prevention
Here are some ways you can control your sugar levels in the summer.
- Stay hydrated
- Wear light summer clothes
- Monitor your sugar levels regularly
- Take your medicine on time
- Avoid alcoholic beverages
- Avoid smoking
- Try to stay in the shade as long as possible
- Exercise indoors in ventilated spaces
Take care of your diabetic supply
Heatwave can also affect your diabetes supply. Therefore, it is important that you store it at the right temperature. Store your test strips and other supplies in a cool place. Keep them away from direct sunlight and do not leave them in your car when it is hot outside. The same rules apply to your insulin pump and your glucometer.
You may also experience hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia due to heat waves. The symptoms can be almost the same as the heatwave. So, make sure you monitor your sugar levels on a regular basis.
Monitor your sugar levels more often than usual during the summer season. It will help you identify the symptoms quickly and you will be able to take appropriate steps to control your condition. If you feel you need more help, you should always talk to your doctor or health coach to get the right guidance.
