The heat of summer is nearing, especially for those living in notoriously warm weather states like Florida. <\/p>\n
Summer heat can be dangerous for anyone and it\u2019s always important to be prepared, but for someone living with diabetes it\u2019s even more important. <\/p>\n
\u201cHot weather can lead to serious health issues for people with diabetes, making them even more sensitive and susceptible to high temperatures and humidity.\u201d1<\/p>\n
Depending on where you live or will travel this summer, don\u2019t forget to account for humidity. Heat and humidity can be a dangerous combination and raise serious concerns. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n
\u201cPeople with diabetes tend to get dehydrated more quickly than people without diabetes\u201d2 which can lead to serious health issues.<\/p>\n
\u201cNot intaking enough liquids can also lead to dehydration which raises blood sugar.\u201d2 An increase in blood sugar increases urination which can cause dehydration and further perpetuates the issue and creates a vicious cycle. <\/p>\n
Certain complications associated with diabetes, like nerve damage also known as neuropathy, can affect sweat glands. These complications can compound the issues and affect certain factors like the body\u2019s cooling process. This can also lead to dehydration.<\/p>\n
Extreme temperatures can also affect insulin production which can be dangerous. \u201cThe body\u2019s metabolism is higher in hot and humid weather which can lead to an increased chance of hypoglycemia as insulin absorption can be increased.\u201d3 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s important to know what signs to look for to identify that something may be wrong. Here are some common signs to watch out for that are a signal that the heat and humidity is an issue. <\/p>\n
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is key to stay hydrated and avoid issues. While sports drinks are good for hydration, they can contain elevated levels of sugars and carbs and are not necessarily the best choice for someone with diabetes. <\/p>\n
Stay cool. It\u2019s important to dress weather appropriate and wear loose fitting, breathable fabrics that help to absorb sweat and keep cool. <\/p>\n
Avoid direct sun exposure. The sun can be brutal so avoid the heat of the day and stay in the shade or indoors as much as possible. <\/p>\n
Exercise with caution. Exercising in extreme heat and humidity can be dangerous if not monitored closely. Staying hydrated and monitoring blood glucose levels before, during and after exercise are vital to keep things in check. Opt for early morning or late evening hours to exercise or join a gym to stay cool and beat the heat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tracking summer changes to diet, schedules and extreme temperatures is hard to do alone. Having the support of a Continuous Glucose Monitoring System through the summer is the key to staying in control. A Continuous Glucose Monitoring device takes glucose readings on set intervals and a trend arrow tells users what direction glucose is heading and the speed in which it is moving so patients can plan what to do next. <\/p>\n\n
Knowing how food, increased activity and hot temperatures will affect blood glucose levels is a big mystery when it comes to diabetes management. A Continuous Glucose Monitor gives users the freedom to know exactly how glucose levels will be affected. That knowledge is power and can help plan activities throughout the summer so blood glucose levels can be kept in check at all times, even while sleeping. CGMs give patients the freedom to enjoy all the summer season has to offer and provide many benefits. <\/p>\n\n\n
No matter what the season, living with diabetes is never easy. It takes daily effort, continual education and a strong support system. At Quest Health Solutions, our patients our are #1 concern, and we are committed to providing the education and resources needed throughout every season. To learn more about how CGMs can help get through the summer, contact us at 1-800-993-9996 or ben@questhealthsolutions.com<\/a> or schedule an appointment today<\/a>. <\/p>\n\t\n\t\n\t\n 1.\t(2021). Healthline. How Do Heat and Humidity Affect Diabetes? Available at click here<\/a> accessed on 27 April 2022.<\/p> \n 2.\t(2021) CDC. Managing Diabetes in the Heat available at click here<\/a> accessed on 29 April 2022. <\/p> \n 3.\t(2021) WebMd. What is Dehydration? What Causes It? Available at click here<\/a> accessed on 29 April 2022.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The heat of summer is nearing, especially for those living in notoriously warm weather states like Florida. Summer heat can be dangerous for anyone and it\u2019s always important to be prepared, but for someone living with diabetes it\u2019s even more important. \u201cHot weather can lead to serious health issues for people with diabetes, making them … <\/p>\n