Diabetes and the Flu

Did you know that by having diabetes you are three times more likely to be hospitalized from the flu than those who do not have diabetes? Anyone living with diabetes should be especially careful during flu season. There are steps you can take to help protect a healthy immune system, while managing your diabetes. If you get the flu, your health care provider will discuss the best treatment to help you recover from the flu, while also helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.

Preventing the Flu

The best way to protect yourself from the flu is by getting a flu shot. The vaccine is safe and effective for those with diabetes. However, health care providers recommend you get the flu shot and not the nasal spray when you have diabetes. The best time to get the flu shot is before the peak of flu season, which is typically in February. Remember, it takes a full two weeks for the flu shot to be fully effective. It will last through flu season, so there is no need to wait. Pneumococcal vaccine is also recommended for those living with diabetes. Additionally, it is recommended that family, friends and care providers with whom you are in close regular contact, also get the flu shot – as the virus can spread before the onset of symptoms.

Another way to help protect a healthy immune system is to avoid exposure to people who are sick. However, you may come into contact with someone who has the flu and not realize it. It is always a good practice to wash your hands with warm water and soap for 20 to 30 seconds several times a day – especially before eating. Try to avoid touching your face, nose and mouth. Other ways to help preventing the flu include taking good care of yourself. Get regular exercise, eat a balanced diet, sleep well, and reduce stress. Keep at least a week’s supply of medications and supplies at home, in case you get sick and are not able to get out for refills.

Treating the Flu

If you suspect you have the flu, contact your health care provider. The earlier prescription flu medication is started, preferably within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, the better success you will have at relieving flu symptoms and shortening the duration. Prescription flu medication can also help reduce the risk of serious complications from the flu.

There are special considerations when you have the flu and diabetes. Always continue to take insulin and any diabetes medications as prescribed, unless otherwise instructed by your health care provider. Test and track blood glucose every four hours. Drink more calorie-free liquids and try to eat as normally as you would. If you have problems eating, drink liquids containing the equivalent of carbohydrates you would normally consume. Also, weigh yourself daily to quickly identify any weight loss – a potential sign of high glucose – and check urine for ketones.

Stay in contact with your health care provider or seek emergency medical attention if any of the following occur:

-Unable to eat and keep food down for more than six hours

-Severe diarrhea

-Weight loss of more than 5 pounds

-Temperature in excess of 101 degrees

-Blood glucose consistently staying under 60mg/dL or above 250mg/dL

-High levels of ketones in the urine

-Confusion

-Difficulty breathing

Anytime you are sick, blood glucose levels can fluctuate, which is compounded when you are unable to eat. Diabetes puts you at a disadvantage for handling an infection like the flu, so it is important to take extra precaution to stay healthy and seek medical attention if you develop symptoms of the flu.

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