Managing Diabetes During the Summer

High temperatures and thunderstorms that are common in the summer can make it difficult to manage your diabetes or care for a relative or loved one with the disease. The heat and humidity can take a toll on the body, which may necessitate changes in medication, diet or daily routines. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) offers several recommendations to help people in these situations.

·      Heat can affect blood sugar levels and increase the absorption rate of some fast-acting insulin, meaning one should test their blood sugar more often in the summer and adjust their intake of food and liquids.

·      Don’t wait for yourself or the person you’re caring for to become thirsty.  Drink or provide plenty of water throughout the day. Also try to avoid sugary soft drinks and teas.

·      If you’re traveling with insulin, do not store it in direct sunlight or in a hot car.

·      When exercising, do so in an air-conditioned gym, or spend time outdoors early or very late in the day during cooler temperatures. 

Additionally, with thunderstorms sweeping the nation through the summer in most years, it is important to create an emergency plan for yourself or your loved one. Here are a few important steps to take:

·      Always wear identification that says you have diabetes.

·      Prepare an emergency supply of food and water.

·      If you take insulin, ask your doctor what to do in an emergency if you do not have any and cannot get more.

·      Include an adequate supply of medicine and supplies in your emergency kit, typically enough to last you at least three days. Make sure to change out medicine and supplies in your kit regularly to keep them up-to-date.

For more tips on managing your diabetes in the summer heat and preparing for emergency situations, visit the CDC’s website at www.cdc.gov.