My Diabetes Information Blogs
Diabetes Sick Day Refresher
01/10/08
Disease Basics
Strange things happen when you get sick. Although you may feel down and lethargic, your body may be burning a lot of energy as it works to fight the illness. If you don't eat, hypoglycemia can kick in.
If you have lost your appetite, your body may be relying on fat and glucose stores from your muscles and other body tissues. This can affect many of your hormone levels including insulin. Your blood sugars could bounce too high or fall too low.
Because of the potential for hypoglycemia and other complications during illness, sick days are times to be more vigilant about diabetes. A news release published on Reuters.com highlights some of the American Diabetes Association's recommendations for diabetes sick days.
Not only does it talk about specific behaviors on the days you are sick, but it tells you how to be prepared for those unexpected down times.
Preparedness is extremely important if diabetes is part of your life. We encourage you to also consider these entries:
Are you prepared for a disaster?
Sources:
Amercian Diabetes Association via Reuters.com, January 2008