Influenza can pose a serious threat to someone who already suffers from chronic diseases such as diabetes, and diabetics have worsening blood sugar and this can cause inflammation and weaken immune defense This means that if you have uncontrolled levels of glucose in your blood, you are more likely to get infected In addition, when you have a bout of infection such as the flu, keeping your blood sugar levels balanced can also be a problem.
In this report, we learn about the risks of influenza for diabetics and how to deal with influenza infection, according to the “Times of India” website.
What makes diabetes such a serious risk during this flu season?
While influenza and viral diseases can be stressful, when a person suffers from diabetes, there is a significant risk that arises, as it is a chronic condition that threatens the stable functioning of the immune system, and facilitates the entry of pathogens.
When you get infected with the virus, the body produces extra glucose to activate the body. However, the flu virus can release cortisol, which can reduce the effectiveness of insulin and disturb glucose readings. These factors can also trigger the risk of unstable blood glucose readings, and increase the risk of complications as well.
Although people with diabetes have a higher risk of catching the flu, they are 30% more likely to be hospitalized than non-diabetics with influenza.
For diabetics… What do you do if you get sick with the flu?
Having a viral fever or a flu-like illness when you have diabetes can be worrisome, but it requires appropriate care and management.
Because diabetes is a chronic condition, you need to be very careful about self-care and take extra steps to treat flu symptoms and blood sugar levels.
Being infected with the flu virus can put stress on the body, making eating stressful, leading to fatigue, and also dehydration – all of which can upset glucose levels. , is to continue to monitor your blood sugar levels every four hours, and maintain proper eating habits, even when you are not hungry.
Drinking plenty of fluids (preferably those that do not raise glucose levels) is also critical, as high sugar can cause frequent urination and lead to dehydration, and skipping or doubling doses of medication is not recommended.
It should also be remembered that with diabetes, because the body has difficulty fighting viruses and infections, the symptoms may take longer to disappear. The disease may be prolonged, and make your body very weak and exhausted.
Are there symptoms that require close attention?
Diabetic ketoacidosis, a rare complication that can cause the body to raise glucose levels, can be a serious threat.
It’s important to keep track of symptoms and rush to get medical help if signs that may be worrisome are spotted when you have the flu. Watch for signs of deterioration or poor health such as:
-frequent urination
Dry mouth and loss of appetite
Confusion, dizziness
Abdominal pain, nausea
Loss of consciousness and a high temperature that lasts for more than a week
Blood sugar levels above 240 (or constantly rising)