COVID-19 infection is a double challenge for diabetic patients. Sugar diabetes is a high-risk factor increasing the chances of hospitalization and mortality rates among diabetic patients who catch the COVID-19. In a study conducted among 52 COVID-19 ICU admitted patients found that diabetes was an existing precondition in 22% of the 32 non-survivors. Studies show Coronavirus mortality rates are about threefold times higher among diabetic patients when compared with the general mortality rates in China.
Why is Diabetes scary for COVID-19?
Those who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, must be extra cautious and watch out for certain conditions, like severe infectious diseases and hypertension. Coronavirus may survive in higher blood glucose levels. Thus, diabetic patients have a high-risk exposure to serious symptoms if they contract a viral disease like COVID-19. Risk increases when-
- Patients have pre-existing complications, and due to rapid fluctuations in blood glucose levels.
- Obesity is another concern. Many diabetic patients with type 2 diabetes are affected by obesity. Those with severe abdominal obesity are at an increased risk of mechanical respiratory problems. Reduced ventilation of the basal lung sections among diabetic patients increases the risk of pneumonia and Coronavirus infection.
High Blood Sugar and COVID-19
A high sugar Diabetes does not point to a 100% contraction with the Coronavirus; however, it does raise the risk of complications if a diabetic patient is infected. This is especially true if their blood sugar levels are not under control with pre-existing chronic medical conditions. An increase in the glycated hemoglobin, levels increases the risk of chronic respiratory infection.
About 80% of those who are infected with COVID-19 experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover. These COVID-19 symptoms may include:
- Aches and pains
- Fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Diarrhoea
However, some Diabetics may experience more severe COVID-19 consequences, including:
- Pneumonia
- Loss of consciousness
- Trouble breathing
- Ongoing chest pain
- Respiratory failure
- Death
High Risk among Diabetes patients
Untreated or uncontrolled diabetes substantially increases a Diabetic’s risk for contacting COVID-19, it can aggravate when:
- Has HIV or AIDS.
- Had a bone marrow or organ transplant.
- Has an immune deficiency disorder.
- A diabetic take cancer drugs or has had chemotherapy.
- Consumes supplement medications or long-term steroids which suppress the immune system.
Sick Day Rules for Diabetics
Type 1 and 2 diabetics infected with COVID-19 may see a deterioration in their glycaemic control levels during the Coronavirus attack. High blood sugar Diabetics must practice “Sick Day Rules” to improve their immunity in the uncertain times of COVID-19. Practising social distancing, you can digitally contact your health care provider for a piece of advice on how to monitor blood glucose levels. Make sure you have adequate refills for medications especially insulin and dietary supplements.
Coronavirus Sick day rules for Diabetics
- Stock non-sugary fluids and Don’t skip drinking water.
- Monitor your blood glucose levels and vital parameters.
- If you are on insulin, keep a tab on your ketone bodies.
- Regularly check your blood sugar levels for any deviations.
- Don’t skip your medications without consulting your doctor. Avoid Self- medication.
- Stock up on a few weeks of medical supplies and insulin.
- Consume a balanced diet for diabetic patients. Avoid fatty and sugary foods.
- In case of high or low blood sugar fluctuations, stock glucagon, and ketone strips.
- Make a list of all the contact details for your pharmacy, doctors, healthcare team, and the insurance company.
- Be informed about all your medicine prescriptions and doses which you take. Call your pharmacy and let them know you may need a refill of your medicines.
Diabetes is not only harmful to the immune system. Besides, diabetics are more likely to develop chronic health conditions, like high blood pressure, kidney ailments and cardiovascular disease, which make COVID-19 complications even more dangerous.
Best foods for Diabetics
Prevention is the best care; healthy nutrition goes a long way to effective diabetes management. Consuming a balanced meal is therefore important for diabetics to enhance their immune system and keep their blood glucose levels stable. It is recommended to:
- Consume foods with a low glycaemic index like whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, whole wheat, peas, legumes, and lentils.
- Avoid excessive consumption of fried and fast foods.
- Limit taking foods which contain high levels of carbohydrates, fat, and sugar.
- Eat green, leafy vegetables and fruits in two or three servings on a regular basis.
Digital Diabetic consultation with Gigadocs
In times of lockdown, digitally consult Diabetic specialists around you for your children and family. Gigadocs helps you to track your and your family’s vitals and store these health records in a secure digital format.
To download Gigadocs app-
IOS App – apple.co/2W2iG4V
Andriod App – bit.ly/33AQoRC
To know more e-mail, at info@gigadocs.com
Whether a Diabetic is suffering from COVID-19 or not, prevention and being well informed is important. Diabetes is a silent killer causing complications and a decrease in immunity levels. Being prepared, staying informed, can make all the difference to the fight against COVID-19.
