Diabetes is the state in which the body does not correctly process the food which we use as energy. The food we eat for the daily basis is converted into glucose or sugar. This is for our bodies to use for energy. The pancreas, which is an organ that lies near the stomach, releases a hormone called insulin to help glucose to get into the cells of our bodies. If you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t manage its insulin as well. This produces sugars to build up in your blood. This is why the majority of people refer to diabetes as “sugar.”
We have all been frequently told that the aged, especially those above 60. Those with pre-existing diseases like cardiovascular diseases or “comorbidities” are more prone to serious COVID-19 infections. Diabetic sufferers might have a greater risk of severe infection.
In a condition like that of diabetes, constant vigilance is required. The needs for which has increased in the current scenario. It is necessary to follow strict social distancing and not leave the house unless it’s completely necessary.
The following point should be kept in mind for diabetic patients in COVID-19 pandemic.
Monitor your sugar levels:
It is necessary to keep a working and authentic blood glucose monitor at home and check blood sugar levels both in fasting and after meals. This is the easiest step, but also one of the most important. The purpose is to maintain your blood sugar levels at 110 mg/dl when fasting and 160 mg/dl after meals. Increase of 10-20% in both the rate is admissible for diabetic elders. Controlling diabetes can be beneficial for your immune system which helps you fight off infections.
Hold stock of medicines:
People who take insulin need to be extra careful to have a stock of their insulin at all times. Even though all important services are working despite the complete lockdown. It is necessary to keep a stock of all your medicines and essentials required to manage and control your diabetes. Stock on all the essential anti-diabetic pills, insulin, special containers for the insulin and also medicine for other complications like hypertension.
Don’t miss out on exercising:
Diabetic patients need to find time for some physical exercise every day. It is not too difficult to do. Walking, jogging or yoga for 30 minutes every day is ideal for diabetics to help them maintain their well-being during the lockdown. A little amount of stretching and exercising is important for keeping ideal blood sugar levels.
Avoid high-calorie bites:
Patients should withdraw foods that are rich in either carbohydrates or salts. You can keep healthy snacks for the times when you feel hungry between meals. Stock up on vegetables and fruits like apples and oranges.
Avoid panic:
It is very important for you not to bother too much about catching the disease. Anxiety and Stress can contribute to increased blood sugar levels. However, this is also not the time to become complacent. You must follow all the careful guidelines laid down by medical experts to protect yourself from the virus and also stop it from developing further. Wash your hands frequently and follow strict social distancing rules to save yourself during the prevailing pandemic.
Drink responsibly:
If you want to drink, do so only in balance. This means no more than one drink a day for women of all ages and two drinks a day for men age 65 and younger. Alcohol can affect high or low blood sugar. This depends on how much you drink and whether you eat at the same time. Always have alcohol with a meal or snack. Don’t forget to include the calories from any alcohol you drink in your everyday calorie count. Also, be conscious that alcohol can affect low blood sugar later, particularly for those who use insulin.
Note:
Before injecting an insulin shot, it is necessary to cleanse hands fully. The patients need to keep a regular tab on their health and discuss with the dietician or the doctors when required. The standard safety practices like
- social distancing,
- frequent washing of hands,
- wearing a mask and
- withdrawing overcrowded places
Though diabetic patient in Covid-19 Pandemic might be more exposed to infection, the steps listed above can help overcome the odds and help us in being safe during COVID-19 Pandemic.