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Living with Diabetes 101 is written by registered nurses and diabetes educators.

Hot Weather and Diabetes

July 08, 2015
 

When summer temperatures soar into the 100s, you might wonder if this will affect your blood sugar. Well, the answer is yes and no. While heat doesn't have a direct impact on your blood sugar levels, it can activate hormones that alter blood sugar levels. The heat can also damage medicine and equipment used for controlling blood sugar.

Diabetes makes it harder for the body to handle high heat and humidity.

Here are some tips to stay cool and keep blood sugars under control on days when the temperature spikes.

· Keep hydrated by always carrying water with you or making sure you have access to water.

. Begin drinking water before you get thirsty to prevent dehydration.

· Keep insulin out of the heat because extreme heat can cause insulin to lose its effectiveness. If your insulin doesn't seem to be working, try a new vial or pen.

· Keep meters and test strips out of the heat as this can cause damage, altering their accuracy.

· If you're going out, remember to bring your medicines, glucose tabs and meter. Place them in an insulated bag that keeps them cool but not frozen.

· Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness and shakiness, as these symptoms can mimic low blood glucose.

· Check blood glucose levels more often.

· For insulin pump users, be aware that perspiration may cause the adhesive that holds the cannula in place on the skin to loosen. Some have found that applying a little antiperspirant will keep the skin dry so the adhesive will stick.

Have a great summer!!

For more information:http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/expert-blog/heat-and-diabetes/BGP-20056563

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