4 Summer Tips for Diabetics | Faulkner's Drug Store

The heat is on! As the summer stretches into July, it’s important for the 21 million Americans with diabetes to take special precautions for a safe and healthy summer. If you have diabetes, you might not know that you are at a greater risk for complications in hot and humid weather. Faulkner’s Drug Store has tips to help you deal with the heat.

Stay hydrated.
While dehydration is an obvious summer danger for anyone, if you have diabetes, dehydration is more likely when your blood glucose isn’t well-managed. If your blood sugar is high, you will tend to urinate more often. Help prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of caffeine-free fluids and limiting your consumption of alcohol.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion.
When you have diabetes, you are more prone to overheating. It’s very important that you know the signs of heat exhaustion before they occur. Those symptoms include dizziness or fainting, sweating profusely, muscle cramps, cold or clammy skin, headache, accelerated heartbeat and nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should move to a cooler location, drink plenty of water and seek prompt medical attention.

Protect your glucose monitoring supplies from the heat.
Always store your glucose meter, strips and insulin in a cool and dry place. Insulin should never be stored in extreme temperatures like the freezer, beneath direct sunlight, or in your car. Also examine your insulin vials for signs of clumping or clouding–your insulin should remain clear.

Plan for the heat every day.
Be sure to continue monitoring your blood sugar regularly, at least four times a day, and more frequently if you are feeling unwell. Keep in mind that heat can cause fluctuations in your blood glucose levels. When you go out for the day, pack plenty of water and snacks to help keep your sugar stable. Plan to exercise either indoors in AC, or during non-peak hours for the heat–like the early morning or later in the evening when temperatures are more comfortable.

This summer, be sure to turn to Faulkner’s Drug Store for your diabetic needs. We’re here to help you live a healthy and safe summer. To stay updated on the latest in health and wellness news, like us on Facebook today.