Flu and Cold Affect Your Blood Sugar

 

Flu and Cold  Affect Your Blood Sugar

Did you know that having a cold or flu can make your blood sugar go up? It’s true! This can happen to anyone, but it’s more important for people with diabetes to pay attention. Let’s see why this happens and how you can stay healthy.

Why Does Blood Sugar Go Up When You’re Sick?

When you’re sick, your body works hard to fight the germs. To do this, it releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones give your body energy but also raise your blood sugar.

What Can Make Blood Sugar Higher?

• Swelling (Inflammation): Your body becomes swollen and sore as it fights germs. This makes insulin less effective.
• Resting Too Much: When you don’t move around, your body doesn’t use sugar for energy.
• Cold Medicine: Some medicines have sugar or ingredients that can increase blood sugar.
• Dehydration: If you don’t drink enough water, your blood sugar gets more concentrated.

Why Is This a Problem?

High blood sugar can make it harder to get better. It can also:

• Slow down healing.
• Cause more infections.
• Make you very dehydrated, which might need hospital care.

Who Needs to Be Careful?

• People with Diabetes: They need to watch their blood sugar closely.
• Older Adults: As we age, our bodies may not handle blood sugar as well.
• Others with Health Issues: Those with obesity or metabolic problems are more at risk.

Foods to Eat When You’re Sick

Eating the right foods can help you feel better faster. Here are some good choices:

• Soups: Chicken or vegetable soups are easy to eat and keep you hydrated.
• Whole Grains: Oats, brown rice, and quinoa give long-lasting energy.
• Fruits: Apples, oranges, and berries are healthy and low in sugar.
• Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens boost your immunity.
• Yogurt: Choose sugar-free options for a healthy gut.
• Healthy Fats: Eat nuts, avocados, and olive oil for energy.

Safe Medicines for Diabetic Patients with Flu or Cold

Choosing the right medicine is very important for diabetic patients. Always look for sugar-free options and talk to your doctor before taking anything. Here are some safe medicines:

• Paracetamol or Acetaminophen: For fever and body aches. It’s gentle and won’t spike blood sugar.
• Antihistamines: These help with sneezing, runny nose, and itching. Examples include loratadine and cetirizine.
• Sugar-Free Decongestants: For stuffy nose and sinus pressure. Use nasal sprays or tablets that are marked as sugar-free.
• Cough Syrups: Opt for sugar-free versions to soothe your throat without raising blood sugar.
• Saline Nasal Spray: Helps clear a blocked nose naturally, without affecting your blood sugar.

Important Tips:

• Always read the labels of over-the-counter medicines.
• Avoid multi-symptom medications with added sugar or caffeine.
• If unsure, consult your pharmacist or doctor.

Tests to Know What’s Wrong

If you’re very sick or not getting better, visit a lab. They can help figure out what’s wrong. Tests include:

• Flu Test: To check for the flu virus.
• Blood Test: To look for infections.
• Throat Swab: To find bacterial infections like strep.
• COVID-19 Test: To rule out COVID-19.

How to Stay Safe and Healthy

• Check Your Blood Sugar: Check it more often than usual.
• Drink Water: Stay hydrated! Water helps keep your blood sugar steady.
• Take the Right Medicine: Use sugar-free cold medicines.
• Eat Well: Stick to foods that boost your health and don’t spike blood sugar.
• Move a Little: Light activity like walking or stretching can help.
• Have a Plan: Talk to your doctor about what to do when you’re sick.

Wrap-Up

Catching a cold or flu can affect more than just your nose and throat. It can also make your blood sugar go up. But don’t worry! By eating well, staying hydrated, and keeping an eye on your blood sugar, you can stay in control and feel better faster.