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Last Updated on April 4, 2024 by Partha Protim Choudhury
According to preliminary research, around 25% of patients with severe COVID-19 infections who were admitted to the hospital also had diabetes. The risk of significant complications and death due to the virus was higher among diabetics. One reason is that high blood sugar weakens the immune system and makes it less able to fight off infections; another is having too much acid in your blood or extreme shock from an infection. We will discuss what special care diabetics require during COVID-19.
Does your diabetes make you more susceptible to contracting COVID-19?
Diabetes manifests as type 1 and type 2 diabetes due to different causes. In individuals with type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system attacks the pancreatic islet cells that produce insulin, inhibiting the pancreas from making insulin. People with type 2 diabetes (diabetes mellitus) experience insulin resistance because their pancreas produces less insulin than normal. Even if the acute infection’s intensity is getting less because of immunizations and therapy, COVID-19’s long-term effects are starting to show. Steroids used for COVID treatment cause an acute increase in blood sugar levels. It can induce a new onset of diabetes and also worsen pre-existing diabetes. Post-infectious complications of COVID-19 majorly include diabetes mellitus.
If you have COVID-19, you may be more susceptible to diabetic complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). It happens when high levels of acids called ketones build up in your blood. It can be very serious and can cause a range of symptoms, including extreme thirst, nausea, rapid breathing, and fruity-smelling breath. Anyone suspected of having DKA needs to be taken to the emergency room.
Sepsis is a potentially fatal, systemic reaction experienced by certain individuals infected with the coronavirus. Doctors must control your body’s fluid and electrolyte balances in order to treat sepsis. Electrolyte loss from DKA can make sepsis more difficult to manage.
How can diabetics protect themselves from COVID-19?
People with diabetes can protect themselves from contracting the virus in the same way as everyone else: by frequently washing their hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid frequently touching surfaces whenever possible. Clean any potentially contaminated surfaces—like tabletops, door handles, and countertops—on a regular basis. Not touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
Keep a physical distance from others by keeping a 6-foot, or 2-metre, distance from them when you’re in public. using an inner elbow or tissue to cover coughs and sneezes rather than your hands. Avoid all contact with sick individuals, particularly if they are coughing, feverish, or both. Ensure at least 7 hours of sleep each night and minimizing stress levels to maintain a robust immune system. Following an exercise routine can help immensely to stay active.
How does your diet plan help diabetics during COVID-19?
Maintaining an adequate intake of food and fluids and trying to keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range. Here are the tips for what and how much to eat: eating right is the key to keeping your blood glucose level within range. Vegetables and fruits are naturally low in calories and rich sources of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Fruits and vegetables like carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, spinach, green peas, apples, oranges, grapes, watermelon, berries, etc. can be included.
One should aim to eat at least five portions a day. Fibre from starchy foods like wheat, rice, oats, cornmeal, and barley keeps your digestive system in good health. You should consume at least half of your daily grain consumption as whole grains.
Protein foods like chicken, lean meat, eggs, nuts, and peanuts, which are high in protein, help keep your muscles healthy. Make an effort to eat something from this group each day. Although, you don’t have to consume non-vegetarian food every day.
Non-fat or low-fat dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese are a rich source of calcium and protein every day. Heart-healthy fat foods like olive oil, rapeseed oil, vegetable oils, nuts and seeds, and avocado can be included. Even though we do need some fat in our diets, it’s crucial to include fewer saturated fats.
What are the diabetes-specific special care actions during COVID-19?
Regularly visit your doctor. Maintain a normal blood sugar level. Have enough insulin, medication, and supplies for at least a week. Have electrolyte drinks and simple carbohydrates handy. Keep canned and dry healthy foods at hand.
General actions include wearing a face mask when you are out in public and all the time if someone in your house is sick. Again, stay at least six feet away from other people and stay home as much as possible. Wash your hands well and often with soap or hand sanitizer, especially if you have been away from home.
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