Flu and Cold cause Blood Sugar Levels

 Flu and Cold: How They Affect Blood Sugar Levels

When you catch the flu or a cold, you might think it only causes a runny nose, fever, or tiredness. But did you know it can also raise your blood sugar levels? This is especially important for people with diabetes or those at risk. Let’s look at why this happens and how to manage it.

Why Do Illnesses Raise Blood Sugar Levels?

When your body fights a cold or flu, it releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones give your body energy to fight the illness, but they also make your blood sugar go up. This can be a problem for people who already have trouble keeping their blood sugar in check.

What Makes Blood Sugar Levels Go Up During a Cold or Flu?

• Inflammation: When your body is inflamed (swollen and sore) from fighting germs, it becomes harder for insulin to work properly.
• Less Movement: When you’re sick, you’re likely to rest more, and your body doesn’t use as much sugar for energy.
• Medications: Some cold and flu medicines have sugar or ingredients that can raise blood sugar.
• Dehydration: When you have a fever or don’t drink enough fluids, your body loses water, and your blood sugar becomes more concentrated.

Why Is High Blood Sugar During Illness a Problem?

High blood sugar can make it harder for your body to heal and fight off infections. It can also cause:

• Slow healing of wounds.
• More infections.
• Severe dehydration that might need hospital care.

Who Should Be Careful?

• People with Diabetes: Those with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes need to watch their blood sugar closely during illness.
• Older People: As you age, your body may not handle blood sugar as well.
• Those with Other Health Issues: If you have obesity or metabolic syndrome, you’re more likely to have high blood sugar when sick.

How to Stay Safe When You’re Sick

• 1. Check Your Blood Sugar Often
• Keep an eye on your blood sugar. Check it more often than usual to spot any problems early.
• 2. Drink Lots of Water
• Stay hydrated! Drinking water helps keep your blood sugar in balance.
• 3. Pick the Right Medicine
• Choose sugar-free cold and flu medicines. Ask your doctor which ones are safe for you.
• 4. Eat Healthy Foods
• Stick to foods that are good for your immune system and won’t cause big changes in your blood sugar. Soups, whole grains, and low-sugar fruits are great options.
• 5. Move a Little
• If you’re feeling up to it, light activity like stretching or short walks can help keep your blood sugar steady.
• 6. Have a Plan
• Work with your doctor to make a plan for what to do when you’re sick. This could include changing your medication or insulin dose.
• In Conclusion
• Getting sick with the flu or a cold might seem like no big deal, but it can make your blood sugar go up. Knowing this and being prepared can help you stay healthy. If you have diabetes or are at risk, make sure you’re ready to handle the challenges that come with being sick.

Bar graph illustrating the factors contributing to high blood sugar during the flu or a cold.