How to manage a sick day when you have diabetes

Nobody wants to get sidelined with a cold, flu, or infection. And when you have diabetes, feeling unwell can make it even harder to manage your blood sugar.

Diabetes can also make it tougher for your immune system to heal your body. That’s why it’s important to follow these guidelines if you have diabetes and are under the weather.

• Continue taking your medicines (including insulin), even if it’s hard to eat. Call your provider to ask if you should change any of the dosing.
• Do your best not to skip meals. Try to eat at least small amounts on a regular schedule. If you can’t eat, try to sip the number of carbs you need through your drink choices.
• Drink water or other liquids that do not have caffeine or calories. This will keep you from getting dehydrated. If you feel queasy or if you’re vomiting, takes small sips every 5 minutes. Try to drink an 8-ounce cup of liquid every hour while you are awake.
• Test your blood sugar every 4 hours, and keep track of the results.
• Weigh yourself daily. Losing weight without trying can be a sign of high blood sugar.
• Check your temperature at least every morning and evening. High temps can be a sign of infection.

Call your healthcare provider or go to the emergency room if:

• You feel too sick to eat, or cannot hold food down for more than 6 hours.
• You are having severe diarrhea.
• You have lost 5 or more pounds.
• Your temperature is higher than 101 degrees F.
• Your blood sugar is lower than 60 mg/dL on two checks.
• Your blood sugar is higher than 250 mg/dL on two checks.
• Your urine ketone levels are above normal or high.
• You have trouble breathing or your breath has a fruity smell.
• You have brain fog or can’t think clearly.