During my 20 years of experience with diabetes, I have learned that I need to be extra careful when temperatures increase dramatically. I know that I have to manage my diabetes more often because It can affect my blood sugar control.
How the heat affects my levels depends on what I’ve eaten, whether I am well-hydrated and my activity level. If the heat and my activity make me sweat profusely, I may become dehydrated. As a result, that will lead to a rise in glucose levels. If I become dehydrated, my blood glucose levels will rise. Not only it will lead to frequent urination, but also it will lead to further dehydration and even higher blood sugar levels
What do I do to manage my diabetes properly?
Enjoying the sun is one of the things I look forward to in the summer and on holiday. In order to enjoy the outdoor activities without affecting my blood sugar level, I do the following things:
Drink plenty of water
Wherever I go, I usually carry a small bottle with me.
Test my blood sugars levels frequently
I test my blood glucose levels more frequently than usual. On that way, I take appropriate and immediate action to keep my levels more stable.
Keep my blood glucose meter and test strips away from the sun
Extremes of temperature can also affect your blood glucose meter and test strips. As a result, I keep my meter and test strips as close to normal room temperature as possible and out of direct sunlight.
Store my insulin properly
During the hot weather, I keep my insulin in the fridge or a cool bag. Of course, I take care that it does not freeze.
I always take some snack with me
Some snacks can serve as a meal replacement. Others can serve as ways to prevent low blood sugars. I always have glucose tabs or glucose gel (Jubin) in my bag.
I try to avoid sunburn
I apply sunscreen to exposed areas of your body 15–30 minutes before going out in the sun.