Expert advice on preparing for the coronavirus
Like everything with diabetes, it is best to be prepared for COVID to strike.
And, wash your hands. Don’t touch your face. If sick, stay home.
Introduction
What should you do if you or a loved one has diabetes? Even though we may be through the worst of it, having diabetes should require you to continue with special protective measures. Sorry, but being diabetic is never letter your guard down.
Never letting your guard down should include educating yourself on the latest updates, and being prepared, but to ask for help if you need it. At Damndiabetes.ca, we are here to help and only a phone call or email away. Don’t be afraid to ask.
One medical expert suggested, “there may be a point where we are asked to stay home, so we need to do our best to follow the guidelines but to seek medical care if needed.”
Pay Attention to Prescriptions
“Make sure your medications are refilled. This is not the time to get behind on medications.” This includes any oral drugs you take to manage blood sugar, insulin, and any related supplies such as syringes or pens, insulin pump supplies, pen needles, glucose strips, lancets, alcohol swabs, ketone strips, glucagon and whatever else you use to manage your diabetes.
Several factors – including your specific insurance plan, laws, and the type of medication – determine the number of prescriptions and supplies you can fill at a time. If filled at a local pharmacy, this often means a 30-day or sometimes a 90-day supply
What is the risk of severe COVID-19 infection with well-managed diabetes?
Data shows that those with baseline chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and lung disease, appear to be at higher risk for experiencing severe illness with this virus. [High blood glucose levels challenge] the immune system, leaving the body vulnerable to severe outcomes with infections. Working with your diabetes care team to manage blood sugars would help the immune system to function properly and increase overall wellness.
“The more chronic conditions you have, the more you are at a higher risk.” Keeping health conditions managed is vital for good health.
General Precautions for All
Whether you have diabetes or not, everyone should continue to be washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating, after using the bathroom, and after coming home from being out in public. Use hand sanitizer when handwashing isn’t possible.
What if you might have the coronavirus?
Call your healthcare team. Do not go to the doctor’s office or emergency room without first calling, to help protect others.
Avoid close contact, do not share personal items, and disinfect all common surfaces frequently.
Currently there is no treatment for coronavirus.
When should you go to the doctor or the emergency room?
If you are experiencing more and more shortness of breath – especially if you are unable to complete a sentence without taking a breath.
Conclusion
Even though we may be past the very serious cycle of COVID, the new variants still haunt us. Having diabetes means we cannot let our guard down as getting COVID can put us at a serious health risk. Stay sharp, stay educated and don’t be afraid to ask questions or for help. Call Damndiabetes.ca today and let us help you on a path to a better quality of life living with diabetes.
Best wishes ...
Wayne Drury was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes more than one year. He quickly discovered there was scant diabetes information providing a roadmap to a better quality of life living with diabetes.
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Disclaimer of Medical Advice: Statements and opinions expressed on this Website do not constitute medical advice or recommendations. You should not rely on any information in such posts or comments to replace consultations and decisions with qualified healthcare professionals.
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