The pandemic has made all of us cautious. Just a few months ago, we were carefree, not much bothered by mild infections and germs. In a short time span, we have become obsessed with personal hygiene, especially sanitizing, washing hands, and wearing face masks. Where we never thought twice before hugging close friends and family, now we maintain recommended physical distance from others.
Those who have underlying medical conditions are more careful than others. This is true of those who have diabetes because there is a greater chance of developing complications in case they contact the coronavirus/covid 19.
Being a caregiver to someone with diabetes, I prefer to stay updated with the right information rather than panic and worry unnecessarily. Here are a few things that would put to rest most of the queries people have.
Are people with diabetes more likely to get Covid-19?
There is no evidence that people with diabetes are at a greater risk. However, if they are infected they have a higher risk of getting serious complications.
How can someone with diabetes lower the risk of developing complications?
Your diabetes should be well managed. Keep a check on your blood sugar levels through regular monitoring, eating a healthy diet that has been recommended by your doctor, getting adequate physical activity on a daily basis, and being regular with the medications.
Are there any warning signs that I need to look out for?
There is a range of symptoms that can point to the fact that you are at risk or may have been infected.
- Fever or chills.
- Persistent cough
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Nausea or diarrhea
- Loss of taste or sense of smell
What should you know if you have diabetes and you seek medical attention?
Speak to the doctor about the symptoms you are experiencing. You should be able to tell your doctor about your last glucose reading, track your fluid consumption, and explain your symptoms with clarity.
What are the other things you should take care of if you have diabetes?
Take care of the basic precautions to keep yourself safe. These include not stepping out of home unnecessarily, maintaining physical distance, and sanitizing hands diligently. Wearing a mask is very important.
In addition to this, have enough medicines at hand. As a rule, always have a few days’ insulin supplies with you. Have your prescription handy and let your family members know about your medicine dosage. Also, you should have a number of pharmacies that can deliver medicines to your home.
While there is no way to completely eliminate the risk of infection, understanding the potential risks and prevention measures available will help you to protect yourself.
Diet, exercise, regular monitoring, and adherence to medication are important factors in diabetes management. Empower yourself to live better with diabetes and take the pledge today to be #MoreThanMyDiabetes
Disclaimer:
The views expressed in the blog content are independent and unbiased views of solely the blogger. This is a part of the public awareness initiative supported by Sanofi India. Sanofi India bears no responsibility for the content of the blog. One should consult their healthcare provider for any health-related information.
References
https://www.diabetes.co.uk/body/insulin.html
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/managing-your-diabetes/treating-your-diabetes/insulin
https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-risk/prevention/high-blood-sugar
Thank you for sharing this detailed information. Correct information is really important for people with ailments to take care of themselves in this testing time
#MoreThanMyDiabetes #blogchatter
Thanks for sharing a well curated article. This is much needed, spreading the word
How effectively you manage diabetes can make a huge difference in the long run. I have taken the pledge. #morethanmydiabetes
Diabetic pstients are need to be more careful. They should keep un touch with their doctors. As you mentioned these the main symptoms of corona.
Yes though there are no reports suggesting more probability of diabetics getting COVID but they should surely take care.
Covid is becoming the game of fear as it is getting older. In such situation you have cleared a lot of doubts of caregivers as well as diabetics.
My father is diabetic and during pandemic I always worried as he comes under risk zone. Absolutely healthy diet, a fitness regime and optimistic vision helps a diabetic to live well.
#morethanmydiabetes
People with co-morbidities are more vulnerable in the times of this pandemic and as you have rightly said people with diabetes if they contract the virus can develop serious symptoms. Good management of sugar levels is the key here.
Yes diabetic are more at risk for COVID. Like you mentioned following healthy lifestyle does help a lot
There is a bidirectional relationship between Covid-19 and diabetes. Keeping blood sugar levels under control can reduce this risk. Great thoughts.