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As the hot and humid summer months of Qatar can often be difficult for people with diabetes, extra precautions must be taken during this period, said a senior medical officer from Hamad (HMC). difficult for patients with diabetes because extreme heat can affect blood glucose control. In general, people with diabetes experience more heat than people who do not have diabetes, as many diabetes-related complications, such as damage to blood vessels and nerves, can affect the sweat glands. Diabetics get dehydrated more quickly and high temperatures can cause sunburn, which can stress the body and increase blood sugar levels, "says Mbad Othman, director of diabetes education at HMC
. These are the biggest threats to a person with diabetes because, in addition to raising blood sugar levels, it can also inhibit the absorption of insulin injected. "The effects of dehydration are not always obvious."
"Staying hydrated is important for everyone, but it's especially important for people with diabetes. Once a person with diabetes experiences uncontrolled blood sugar levels or heat exhaustion, it can be difficult to control glucose levels. We advise our patients to be cautious during the summer months and we teach them to recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, which may include dizziness, fainting, excessive thirst or excessive sweating. "
Othman explains. the importance of consulting a physician for a heat-related illness and advising patients to carry small bottles of water and frequently check their blood sugar levels
.
"High temperatures can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate suddenly, and this is especially true if a person is involved in physical exercise. Physical activity is the key to managing diabetes, but we do not recommend being active outside during the hottest part of the day or when the heat index is high. Get out early in the morning or in the evening when temperatures are lower, or spend some time strolling through an air-conditioned shopping center.
Othman recommends that people with diabetes drink a lot of caffeine-free liquids. and carry their medicines with them when they are away from home. She also insists on the importance of ensuring that insulin, glucometers and test strips are safely stored during periods of high heat and humidity.
"A number of variables can affect the effectiveness of test strips and insulin and inadequate storage and high temperatures are among the biggest threats." Heat can damage blood glucose monitors , insulin pumps and other diabetes treatment devices.Do not leave them in a hot car, near a pool, in direct sunlight or on the beach.We recommend our patients keep insulin in a cool, insulated bag when traveling or spending time away from home, "says Othman.
She also warns of the dangers of sunburn. She says that sunburn can also cause inflammation and lead to an increase in insulin resistance
.
"We educate our patients about the importance of insulin resistance. e avoid sunburn. We recommend that they use a good broad-spectrum sunscreen and wear sunglbades and a hat when they are exposed to the sun. We also recommend that they do not walk barefoot, even on the beach or at the pool
.
Wearing loose, light, light-colored clothing can also be an effective strategy for beating the summer heat. "Diabetes-related skin conditions are another notable concern during the warmer months, with bacterial infections, fungal infections, blisters, rashes, sores and itching, more common when heat and humidity are high. Some skin problems can also be a harbinger of diabetes in those who are not diagnosed. Othman says that most diabetes-related skin conditions can be easily prevented or treated if they are detected early.
"During the year, but especially during the hottest months, it is important for people with diabetes to keep their skin clean and dry. Excessive sun exposure can trigger a number of diabetes-related skin problems.All throughout the year, but especially during the warmer months, it is important for diabetics to inspect their skin daily to look for irregularities and immediately report any problem to their doctor, "she explains
. is the key to a well-managed diabetes as it can allow a patient to take appropriate action sooner and again. avoiding a diabetic emergency.It adds that in cases where the individual has been physically active, it is important to continue monitoring blood sugar levels for several hours, saying that their blood sugar may be affected for several hours after the end of the activity.
She also recommends that people with diabetes always wear an ID that says they have diabetes.
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