We all wash our hands frequently, maintain a distance of about two meters, and wear masks to stay safe from COVID-19 these days. These have become a part of our lives now. However, if you have Diabetes Mellitus, you need to think a little more, that is, twice, about these things. Why do we say that? What is the connection between diabetes and COVID-19? Let's talk about it in detail, very simply.
What is the connection between diabetes and COVID-19?
First, let's be clear. This doesn't mean that having diabetes makes you more susceptible to COVID-19 than other people. It just means that there is no difference in your risk of contracting the virus. However, if you do get the virus, you are more likely to have a more severe illness than others.
Why does this happen? There are several reasons for this.
Think of our body's defense system, or immune system, as an army that protects a country. It is this army that protects us from diseases by fighting off enemies like viruses and bacteria that come from outside.
Now, when a person's blood glucose level is constantly high, or more precisely, when diabetes is not controlled, what happens is that the strength and fighting ability of the soldiers in the army decreases. They become weak. Then, when a powerful virus like COVID-19 enters the body, it becomes difficult for our immune system to fight it successfully. That is why the disease becomes severe and the chances of complications like pneumonia increase.
Simply put, uncontrolled high blood sugar levels interfere with the functioning of your body's defense system.
Additionally, some medical experts believe that viruses thrive in an environment with high blood sugar levels. Diabetes can also increase the time it takes to recover from an illness.
But don't panic. The good news is that if your diabetes is well-controlled, meaning your blood sugar levels are kept at the recommended levels by your doctor, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing these serious complications.
So what should we do?
Okay. Now that we know what the risk is, let's look at what we can do to reduce this risk and stay safe. Let's break this down into two parts.
First of all, let's protect ourselves from the virus
These are things we all know and should follow. But as a person with diabetes, it is imperative that you follow them exactly.
- Wash your hands often: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coming home from the outside.
- Keep your distance: Try to keep a distance of at least 1.5 - 2 meters from other people. Avoid crowded places as much as possible.
- Wear your mask properly: Wear a face mask whenever you go out. Avoid being around people who are not wearing masks.
- Don't touch your face: Avoid the habit of frequently touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Let's control diabetes well.
This is the part that is especially important for you. To prepare your body to fight the virus, you need to keep your diabetes under control.
- Check and record your blood sugar levels: Check your blood sugar levels daily, as directed by your doctor. Keep a record of your readings. This will help both you and your doctor understand your condition better.
- Take your medication exactly as prescribed: Take the pills or insulin injections prescribed by your doctor at the right time and in the right dosage. Don't skip a single dose.
- Keep essentials at home: It's a good idea to keep at least two weeks' worth of your medications, insulin, test strips, and glucometer batteries at home so you don't have to worry if you suddenly can't go out.
- Stay clean: Wash the area where you prick your finger to check your blood sugar and inject insulin thoroughly with soap and water, or clean it with rubbing alcohol.
- Connect with your doctor: This is the most important thing. Stay in touch with your doctor regularly. Don't miss clinic appointments. Call or text for advice. If you feel unwell or have any questions about your diabetes, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor.
- Think about your mental health: Living with a chronic illness like diabetes can lead to stress, anxiety, and sometimes depression. So think about your mental health as well. Do things that bring you joy, talk to family and trusted friends.
What if you suddenly get sick?
No matter how careful we are, sometimes illnesses do occur. If you start to experience one or more symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing, severe body aches, sore throat, headache, or loss of smell or taste, do not panic and call your doctor immediately for advice.
Take special care of these points to manage diabetes when you are sick.
| What to do when sick | Things to pay special attention to |
|---|---|
| Checking blood sugar frequently | When you have an illness (especially an infection), your blood sugar levels can rise. It's a good idea to check your blood sugar at least every 4 hours. If your blood sugar level is consistently higher than 250 mg/dL , call your doctor right away. |
| Attention to Blood Pressure | COVID-19 infection can cause high blood pressure. Take your medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Ask your doctor if you should monitor your blood pressure at home or if your medication needs to be changed. |
| If blood sugar levels drop (Hypoglycemia) | Sometimes your blood sugar level may drop below 70 mg/dL . If this happens, quickly eat about 15 grams of simple carbohydrates, such as half a glass of fruit juice, a glucose bar, or a sugary drink. Check your blood sugar again in 15 minutes to make sure it is rising. |
| Drinking water and fluids | During fever and illness, the body can become dehydrated. This affects blood sugar levels. So drink plenty of fluids like water, porridge, and soup. |
Take-Home Message
- Although having diabetes is not a specific risk factor for developing COVID-19, it does increase the risk of severe illness if infected.
- Keeping your blood glucose levels under control is your best protection and strongest shield.
- Strictly follow the basic health instructions (hand washing, social distancing, wearing a mask) given to protect against COVID-19.
- If you experience any symptoms of illness, COVID-19 symptoms, or any concerns about diabetes, please inform your doctor without delay.
- It is very important to have enough of the medicine, insulin, and testing equipment you need at home.
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