Coping with heat is an important part of managing diabetes. Those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are prone to health issues on hot days. The heat can impair their ability to adjust to outdoor temperatures which can cause a dangerous increase in body temperature.

60 to 70 percent of Americans with diabetes have nerve damage, which can include sweat glands. When sweat glands cannot work properly, the body fails to cool in the summer heat.

Below are tips for managing diabetes in the heat:

  1. Check Sugar Levels More Often in Hot Weather
    1. Heat can increase blood sugar levels when the body is not properly hydrated.
  2. Avoid Sunburns
    1. Sun burns can raise blood sugar. Proper sun safety includes wearing loose clothing, using sunscreen, wearing a hat, staying hydrated and seeking shade.
  3. Warm Skin Absorbs Insulin Faster, Dehydrated Skin Absorbs Insulin More Slowly
    1. Keeping your injection site under normal conditions is important.
  4. Dehydration Leads to Heat Exhaustion
    1. Dehydration raises blood sugar and leads to heat exhaustion. Pinch your skin to test your hydration levels. If skin snaps back you are properly hydrated. If skin goes back to place slowly, you are getting dehydrated.
  5. Heat Can Damage Insulin and Other Medications
    1. The Joslin Clinic advises people to keep their insulin cool, but not on ice.
  6. Cover Insulin Pumps and Continuous Glucose Managers in Heat
    1. Insulin pumps and glucose managers can be in heat, but not for long. Try covering them with a white towel.
  7. Sweat Can Loosen Adhesive on Continuous Glucose Monitors and Insulin Pumps
    1. To keep your sensor or infusion in place try using dressings or tape that will stay tight when damp.
  8. Check Feet at The End of The Day
    1. Wearing proper footwear can protect your feet in the heat. Check feet at the end of the day for sunburn. Your feet also need sunscreen if you are wearing open footwear such as sandals.
  9. Know Signs of Heat Exhaustion
    1. It is important to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion so you can act quickly. Signs include: nausea, flushed skin, racing heart, headache, change in sweating (no sweat), altered mental state, and high body temperature.
  10. Keep Cool
    1. Prevention is key. Follow proper heat safety in order to keep your body from overheating.

 

Many living with diabetes are unaware of the additional risks they face in the heat. Keep yourself and older loved ones safe by following the precautions we outlined above.