The COVID-19 pandemic has been a time we will never forget. Everyone was terrified. So, if you have a chronic condition like diabetes, this fear is probably doubled. If you've ever wondered, "What if I get this disease?", it's very normal. Today, we'll talk about the connection between diabetes and COVID-19, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you get sick.
Why should someone with diabetes be more concerned about COVID-19?
First, understand this. Having diabetes does not put you at greater risk of contracting COVID-19 than anyone else . However, God forbid, if you do get the virus, you are at greater risk of developing complications than anyone else. This risk is especially high if your diabetes is not well-controlled, meaning your blood sugar levels are consistently high.
So why does this happen? Simply put, it's this. Our body has a defense system, we call it the immune system. This is our army that fights disease-causing germs. When blood sugar levels remain high, this immune system's function weakens. Just like our army weakens if we don't eat and drink properly. Then, when a virus like COVID-19 enters the body, our body's ability to fight it off is reduced.
Early studies showed that about 25% of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 had diabetes. Also, people with diabetes were more likely to develop serious complications and die from the disease. This risk may be even higher if you have other conditions, such as heart disease or lung disease, in addition to diabetes.
If you become infected with COVID-19, you are at increased risk of developing dangerous complications from diabetes, such as Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA).
DKA is an emergency condition caused by an excessive build-up of ketones in the blood. Also, some people with COVID-19 can develop a dangerous whole-body reaction called sepsis. When treating sepsis, doctors need to manage your body's fluid and electrolyte levels. DKA causes a large loss of electrolytes, making sepsis even more difficult to control.
What should we do to protect ourselves from this virus?
It is better to be safe than sorry when you get sick. The best way to do that is to get the COVID-19 vaccine . Also, be sure to follow these simple steps in your daily life.
- Stay away from others as much as possible: Especially avoid going to crowded places. If you must go, keep a distance of about 1.5 meters.
- Wear a mask: It is essential to wear a mask whenever you go out, especially if you have not completed your vaccinations.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water regularly. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after going out, before eating, before taking medication, especially before pricking your finger to check your blood sugar level, and before injecting insulin.
- Inform your family: For your safety, it is important for everyone in your household to wash their hands frequently. Especially before you prepare food. Do not share personal items like plates, cups, and spoons. If someone in your household is sick, keep them in a separate room if possible. If you have to stay in the same room, it is essential that the sick person wears a face mask.
- Most importantly - Control your blood sugar levels: This is the best protection you can take. Take the medicine your doctor has prescribed on time. Follow a regular diet. Exercise. By keeping your blood sugar levels under control, you can keep your immune system strong.
How can we prepare in advance if we get sick?
It is very important to have the things we need ready in advance in case we suddenly get sick and have to quarantine, or if we can't go out. Prepare enough of these things for at least two weeks.
| What to prepare | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Food items | Healthy carbohydrates (e.g., cranberry crackers, noodle or vegetable soup, unsweetened applesauce). |
| If blood sugar drops (Hypoglycemia) | If your blood sugar suddenly drops, take simple carbohydrates (e.g. honey, glucose, a sugary drink, fruit juice, toffee). |
| Medicines and medical devices | Prepare your insulin and other diabetes medications in advance, as much as you can. Keep extra glucagon and ketone strips. |
| Important phone numbers | Keep the phone numbers of your doctor, family, and health insurance company in an easy-to-reach place. |
Talk to your doctor and create a sick-day plan. Ask about these things:
- How often should I check my blood sugar and ketone levels when I am sick?
- Do I need to change the dosage of my diabetes medication when I am sick, and if so, how do I do it?
- What are the safe medicines for the common cold and cough?
What do you do if you feel sick?
If you start to feel sick, stay home . Check your blood sugar levels more often than usual. Infections like COVID-19 can cause a loss of appetite and reduce the amount you eat and drink. This can affect your blood sugar levels.
When you're sick, your body needs more fluids than usual. Keep a bottle of water nearby and drink small amounts frequently.
Some common over-the-counter medications (for fever, cough, and cold) can affect your blood sugar levels. So never try new medications without first consulting your doctor.
For example, taking too much aspirin or ibuprofen can cause your blood sugar to drop. Taking too much paracetamol (Panadol) can cause your blood sugar to go too low if you use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Many cough syrups are high in sugar, which can cause your blood sugar to rise.
When should you seek emergency medical advice?
If you develop symptoms of COVID-19, such as a dry cough, fever, or difficulty breathing, call your doctor immediately. Be prepared to give your latest blood sugar and ketone levels when you call.
If you have any of the following symptoms, seek medical advice immediately. If necessary, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
- Your ketone levels are moderate or high .
- Symptoms of `DKA` (extreme fatigue, body aches, vomiting, stomach pain) occur.
- Severe difficulty breathing .
This pandemic is a challenge for everyone. But with the right knowledge, good management, and preparation, you too can successfully face this challenge with diabetes. Don't be afraid, stay informed, and stay safe.
Take-Home Message
- Although having diabetes does not increase the risk of contracting COVID-19, the risk of complications is higher if you do contract the disease.
- The best protection you can take is to get vaccinated and keep your blood sugar levels very well controlled.
- Prepare a "sick-day plan" to deal with emergencies. Keep necessary food, medicine, and doctor's phone numbers handy.
- If you are sick, check your blood sugar levels frequently, drink plenty of fluids, and do not take any new medications without consulting your doctor.
- Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you have difficulty breathing, high ketone levels, or symptoms of DKA.
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