Fever, infection, vomiting, diarrhoea or another short-term illness can disrupt the usual diabetes routine. Eating and drinking patterns may change, and blood glucose levels may also vary during illness.
Having an individual sick-day plan can help clarify what to do when the normal routine changes.
What Should Your Sick Day Plan Cover?
It may include guidance on:
- How often blood glucose should be monitored
- How to maintain appropriate hydration
- What to do with diabetes medicines or insulin
- Whether ketone testing is required in your circumstances
- When to contact your treating healthcare professional
Do not make unplanned treatment changes during illness. Follow your individual sick-day plan or contact your treating healthcare professional. Insulin generally should not be stopped, although its dose may need adjustment. Some glucose-lowering medicines may need to be temporarily withheld during vomiting, dehydration, inability to eat or drink, or severe illness. The appropriate action depends on the medicine and the individual’s condition.
Know When to Seek Prompt Medical Attention
Prompt medical attention may be required if you experience:
• Persistent vomiting
• Inability to retain fluids
• Breathing difficulty
• Drowsiness or confusion
• Detected ketones
• Persistently very high or low glucose readings
At Dr. Apurva Gawai's Diabetes and Obesity Clinic, Kharghar, sick-day guidance is based on individual medical history, current diabetes treatment and clinical requirements.
Understanding your individual sick-day plan before becoming unwell can help you know what action to take when illness affects your usual diabetes routine.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general health awareness and should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional consultation. Individual evaluation and treatment may vary.
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