What You Should Do If You Have Diabetes and Get COVID-19

With the whole world fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and most communities being confined to their home, it can be difficult to know what steps to take when faced with an emergency. Being diabetic means that you must pay special attention to your health, especially when the virus has such a drastic effect on those who are living with diabetes. Continuing our series, Ultimate Health Clinic has more information regarding COVID-19 for those living with diabetes.

As a Diabetic, What Should I Do if I Think I Have COVID-19?

This virus affects certain members of the population more seriously than others. People living with diabetes, seniors, and those who have existing illnesses are among those numbers.

As a diabetic, it is important to pay close attention to your health. If you notice a fever, cough, or if you are short of breath, is critical that you contact your doctor immediately. Always take your diabetic medication as scheduled, regardless of your symptoms. If you think you may have COVID-19, you should check your glucose levels more often.

Sick Day Diabetic Management

Anytime you are diabetic and become sick, you must engage in sick day management. For diabetics, this means staying in touch with your care team, which may consist of your primary doctor and associated nurses under their management. They will be able to help you monitor your condition and suggest dosage adjustments if required.

Pay close attention to your body. This will help you spot hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia symptoms early on. Managing proper levels of glucose can be challenging if you are not feeling well, but strict attention is the key to survival. Stay well hydrated but avoid sweet drinks, even if you are feeling lethargic. Choose smaller, but more frequent meals to help maintain your strength.

Although the death rate from COVID-19 is low, it is important to take care of your condition to prevent secondary complications. Always get in touch with your doctor or the nearest medical facility if your symptoms or condition worsens.

How Do Blood Pressure Medications Affect COVID-19?

Controlling your blood pressure is essential if you have diabetes. There are no scientific reports that link blood pressure medication with an increased risk of contracting COVID-19. Always speak with your doctor before changing, stopping or starting any medications. If you are unwell and unable to eat or drink properly, there are steps you can take to prevent dehydration and other diabetes complications.

I’m Worried I Am or Will Be Infected – How Can I Prepare?

Everyone should have a plan in place in the event they become ill. For diabetics, it is especially critical to have a COVID-19 action plan. Some steps you should take are:

• Put contact information for your insurance, doctor, clinic, and pharmacy all in one place.
• Make a list of the medications you take and the dosages.
• Stock two weeks of medication in advance of an emergency.
• Make sure you have a stock of pen, pump and monitoring supplies.
• Stock extra items such as hand sanitizers and rubbing alcohol at home.
• Have glucose tablets on hand.
• Stock up on ketone strips.
• Have glucagon on hand for an emergency.

How We Can Help

We care about your health here at Ultimate Health Clinic, which is why we want to keep you informed about this disease and the risks. If you are diabetic and are concerned about COVID-19, we hope our tips can help. For any additional questions, contact our clinic at (905) 251-0162.