The searing summer temperatures can be tough for the healthiest of people but for those with diabetes it can prove to be especially challenging. That is why health experts suggest that people with diabetes take special precautions to help them beat the heat.
There are some 21 million children and adults in the United States, or 7 percent of the population, who have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association.
Given that people with chronic diseases like diabetes are often taking certain medications to treat their condition, they can be at increased risk of experiencing difficulties in the heat.
According to experts at the Joslin Diabetes Centers in Boston, Mass., there are steps people with diabetes can take during hot summer days.
• Keep hydrated. For those with diabetes, dehydration also can occur when blood glucose is not under control. When blood glucose is elevated, it can lead to an increase in the body’s excretion of urine. To prevent dehydration, experts suggest drinking plenty of caffeine-free fluids such as water, seltzer and sugar-free drinks like ice tea.
• Watch for heat exhaustion.
People with diabetes and other chronic diseases like heart disease are more
susceptible to overheating. Symptoms can include dizziness or fainting, sweating excessively, muscle cramps, cold or clammy skin, headaches, rapid heartbeat and/or nausea.
• Stay cool during exercise. To help stay cool, exercise in an air-conditioned area like a gym or early in the morning or later in the evening.
• Check blood glucose often.
Experts recommended that people with
sandal season?
Sandal season is here but people with diabetes must remember that steamy weather can spell increased risks for their sensitive feet.
According to The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, in extreme heat conditions diabetic patients can experience swelling, dryness and cracking from wearing sandals. They can also experience problems associated with walking barefoot, such as puncture wounds and burns and blisters from hot pavement.
Because of impaired nerve sensation from diabetes, just a few minutes walking barefoot on
diabetes check their blood glucose levels at least four times a day. Heat can cause blood glucose levels to fluctuate.
• Keep insulin cool. Blood glucose meters, strips and insulin should be stored in a cool, dry place. Experts stress that insulin should not be stored in extreme temperatures, so insulin should not be stored in the freezer, direct sunlight or in the car or glove compartmen t. l
a hot driveway or sidewalk can badly burn the soles of a diabetic patient’s feet.
Feet that are constantly exposed in flip-flops or strap sandals can dry out from loss of moisturizing oils, causing dry, rough skin that is prone to cracking. Experts recommend that patients inspect their feet carefully every day and wear regular shoes for a few days to reduce exposure.
It also important that patients with diabetes wear compression hosiery in hot weather to avoid swelling.
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