Staying Safe With Diabetes During COVID-19

Introduction

The question that strikes the mind is why people with diabetes are at an increased risk of having severe COVID-19 illness. It is well known that in diabetes, the total available sugar in the blood is not very well utilized by the cells. This higher-than-normal circulating blood sugar makes the immune system weaker and the person vulnerable. This is a vicious cycle that is mainly contributed by the following impaired immune response. Higher than normal blood sugar provides a good thriving bed for infectious agents. A dysfunctional immune system cannot fight off the existing infection efficiently, thus making it longer and tougher to heal. Both types of diabetes, type 1 and 2, puts a person at increased risk of contracting the infection followed by related secondary complications and hospitalization.

This article attempts to address the issues and find ways to cope and take charge of life with diabetes and effectively manage it to stay healthy and avoid unnecessary hospital trips. Thus decreasing the chances of getting exposed to patients or asymptomatic carriers of COVID-19.

Care At Home:

This situation of household responsibilities, as well as working from home with increased restrictions, has added to significant stress and pressure in our daily lives. In the current scenario, visiting a doctor is risky as well as challenging. A person with diabetes of any age group is at higher risk of getting an infection leading to critical COVID-19 illness. Therefore, it is imperative that people belonging to this vulnerable group take special measures to keep themselves safe. Here are a few important points for consideration:

1) Stay Active -

Make a routine of at least 30 minutes of exercise, which includes some aerobic activity and deep breathing exercises, and be consistent with the same. It will not only help the person to maintain a healthy weight but optimize sugar levels too. It has been proven time and again in several studies that regular physical activity goes a long way in effective diabetes management. It is never too late to start exercising.

2) Optimal Hydration -

Diabetes dehydrates our bodies. Excessive sugar in the blood is excreted through urine and takes away lots of water and other essential electrolytes from the bodies. Therefore, it is important to drink enough water, which is at least 8 to 9 glasses (2.5 liters) in 24 hours, excluding tea and coffee.

3) Balanced Diet -

Staying homebound can make anyone give in to temptations. The best way is to never stock junk food items. Instead, stock up on healthy snacks such as whole wheat or multigrain crackers, fresh fruit, and nuts. Not only social distancing but distancing from sugary and high-fat foods is important too. Also, control the portions because too much of anything is bad even if it is healthy food.

4) Get Enough Sleep -

At the time of the pandemic, everyone was supposed to be at home, being at home people can aim to get at least 6 to 7 hours of sleep every night. They can also try for a power nap in the afternoon if that works for them. Adequate sleep helps in boosting immunity and thus increases the ability to fight off infection.

5) Manage Stress and Anxiety -

It is very much easy to fall prey to depression because of limited or no interaction with friends and colleagues. One can start feeling lonely. Keeping distance from near and dear ones can be stressful too. Staying calm and positive is as important as other things. This can be achieved by meditation, keeping a journal, and expressing thoughts and feelings by writing them down is a great way to stay balanced. Remember, stress can make sugars go haywire.

Preventive Measures from COVID-19 for Diabetic Patients:

The following are the preventive way for COVID-19 for diabetic patients:

• Check the blood sugar and blood pressure periodically, and monitor the urine output.

• Watch out for symptoms of hypoglycemia. Most diabetics know about it.

• Always keep candy, chocolate, or some form of glucose handy in case a person needs it. If a person does not have any of these, then having some fruit such as a few grapes, an orange, or a small piece of pineapple can help instantly too.

• Make sure to keep enough stock of essentials such as glucometer strips, Lancets, Insulin syringes, and anti-diabetic tablets.

• People should always take all necessary precautions to protect themselves from COVID-19 Infection.

• Refrain from meeting anyone who a person thinks could be infected or has a cold and cough.

• Avoid handshaking.

• Wash the hands from time to time.

• Do not go out in public unless absolutely necessary.

• If a person go out, then maintain a distance of 6 feet from others.

• Use a proper face mask when in public. It should cover the nose and mouth completely.

• Do not share food, towels, and masks within the family, even if all are staying indoors.

• Avoid social gatherings on the same premises or buildings.

• Stay home even if a person has mild flu-like symptoms.

• It is important to keep the phone number or any other contact information of the primary care physician.

Conclusion

It is all the more important to keep sugars in the normal range. If a person has any doubts, then speak with a doctor. Be watchful of any changes that are occurring in the body so as to get time management. If going to a clinic is not possible, then one can use the facility of telemedicine. Do not change the dose or stop taking your regular diabetes or blood pressure medications or Insulin in case you get infected with COVID-19.

Along with taking preventive measures for COVID-19, it is important not to overlook other things. People should take care of themselves and keep their hands, feet, footwear, and clothes clean and sanitized. Use a lubricant to moisturize the skin and prevent cracking. Watch for any sores in the mouth or on the lips. All in all, prioritize natural immune boosters such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and citrus-based fruits (lemon, orange, etc.). Be vigilant of any unusual changes or symptoms in the body and know when to call the doctor. Above all, stay positive.