How can stomach infections be managed in diabetics?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am managing diabetes and caught a terrible stomach bug from my grandson. I have had violent vomiting and diarrhea for over 24 hours now. My blood sugar readings are all over the place, ranging from 45 to 320! I can not keep my insulin doses on schedule because of the vomiting. The doctor's office mentioned that norovirus is going around. I am getting worried about dehydration, but I can not keep liquids down. I have tried small sips and ice chips, but nothing stays down. I use glucose tablets when my sugar is low, but I am throwing those up too. Is this dangerous for diabetics? What is the right approach for insulin during illness when I can not eat? When should I go to the hospital?

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am sorry to hear you are feeling so unwell.

Managing diabetes during illness can be challenging. Continue monitoring your blood sugar every two to four hours and adjust insulin doses as needed. Try taking small sips of clear fluids or ice chips frequently. If you can not keep fluids down, that is concerning. Watch for signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, dry mouth, and dizziness. Seek medical help if vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, you can not keep fluids down for more than 12 hours, or your blood sugar readings are consistently below 60 mg/dL or above 300 mg/dL. Given your symptoms and blood sugar fluctuations, it may be best to go to the hospital for IV (intravenous) fluids and more controlled monitoring.

Stay safe and get well soon!

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.