DIABETES & COVID-19: MANAGEMENT AND PRECAUTIONS

The threat of COVID-19 is emerging drastically with new cases being diagnosed every minute, across the globe. To everybody's surprise, the positive cases have crossed 4 million in number and the fatalities are increasing at an alarming rate.

By this time, it is widely known that older adults, children, patients with compromised immune systems, and underlying conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are at high risk of getting infected with COVID-19. It has become crucial for these people to be more careful to prevent the risk of this deadly virus.

Global statistics reveal that India has become the second-largest number of people with diabetes. Hence, doctors in India have warned diabetic patients that they are at higher risk and several patients currently fighting COVID-19 are either suffering from Type-1 or Type-2 diabetes mellitus.

In the present situation of lockdown, many countries are taking all the necessary precautions. From staying home to social distancing, we all are trying our best to prevent the virulent effect of COVID-19. However, in this scenario, diabetes may seem quite challenging. In this piece of writing, we will understand the relationship between diabetes and COVID-19 and learn more about managing diabetes during this challenging period.

Diabetes And Coronavirus

If your blood glucose is not under control or fluctuating, the risk of infections is more than others. Hence, diabetics are recommended to be more vigilant. Uncontrolled diabetes can weaken the immune system and make you less liable to fight infections.

If a diabetic patient gets infected with COVID-19, the person is more prone to a higher risk of complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This occurs when the ketone levels get built up in the blood and this can get very severe. Reports reveal that some people have shown a dangerous body-response to sepsis. DKA can lead to an electrolyte imbalance which becomes even harder to control and manage sepsis. The primary goal of diabetics in managing COVID-19 should be to maintain their blood sugar levels under control.

Guidelines to prevent COVID-19

The only best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to stay at home and practice social distancing as much as possible.

⦁ In case of an emergency to go out, make sure to maintain a distance of 1 meter (3 feet) from other people.
⦁ Wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, whenever you come back from public places.
⦁ It is very important to wash your hands before taking your insulin shot. Clean the area first with an alcohol swab.
⦁ Make sure you don't share your personal belongings with others.
⦁ If any of your family members are unwell, avoid any contact with them.

Diabetes Management Plan:

It is important to maintain the food supplies and medicines to meet your daily demands amidst the home quarantine and lockdown.

⦁ Ensure to keep a supply of honey, glucose pellets, hard candies, or fruit juice in case you need to manage low blood sugar or hypoglycemia.
⦁ Make sure to stock up insulin injection refills and diabetic medications for a month or two. Keep an excess reserve of ketone and glucose monitoring strips.
⦁ It is also important to save the contact numbers of your diabetologist and physician. Ensure to clarify all your queries regarding common flu, insulin dosage, or monitoring blood sugar through teleconsultation with your doctor.
⦁ Regular physical activity is essential for diabetics.

Healthy Nutrition

One of the essential components of diabetes management is healthy nutrition. Therefore, diabetics need to eat a balanced diet to maintain blood glucose levels and enhance their immune system.

⦁ Eat foods with a low glycemic index like vegetables or whole wheat products.
⦁ Limit consumption of foods high in carbohydrates, sugar, or fat.
⦁ Avoid fried food items.
⦁ Eat more lean proteins like eggs, meat, milk, or beans.
⦁ Have more green, leafy vegetables, and fresh fruits.

Precautionary measures to follow if you get sick.

⦁ Stay at home or home quarantine yourself if you feel you are unwell.
⦁ Keep monitoring your blood glucose level often.
⦁ It is important to stay hydrated to trigger your immune system.
⦁ If you suspect COVID-19 symptoms, immediately seek medical care.

The Last Word

To summarize, diabetes can be a tricky disease and could lead to unnecessary complications, staying informed, and being prepared will make all the difference. Do not ignore your lifestyle modifications - eat right, exercise well, and sleep well, all of which will help boost your immune system.

Diabetic people should be aware of the ongoing pandemic and avoid going to public places. If by chance, you get infected with COVID-19, ensure to keep yourself isolated and do not infect your family members or anyone you come in contact with. Most importantly, keep your diabetes under control and seek medical attention immediately.

"Take precautions. Be smart & be safe."