COVID19 and Diabetes: News, Thoughts, and Questions.
Photo Credit: defeat diabetes.org.
What do you need to know and how can you best keep yourself and your loved ones safe?
Facts and Preparation advice:
We have read several articles about COVID-19 and Diabetes and by far the most useful resource we found was this blog from jdrf.org. It details how people with diabetes are not more likely to contract coronavirus but do have to take more precautions when it comes to being prepared to respond to societal activity and the potential situation of being sick.
As the general population starts to clear grocery store shelves make sure you and your family have what you need to keep your blood sugar numbers under control. If you are sick and taking pain killers, read jdrf's notes on how over the counter pain medication can affect blood sugar:
- Aspirin in large doses can lower blood glucose levels.
- Acetaminophen can cause false or no readings in CGMs, and can be toxic to the liver and kidneys. Anyone with kidney complications should be cautious about using these drugs with acetaminophen.
- Ibuprofen should also be handled with care as it increases the hypoglycemic effect of insulin.
It's better to be over-prepared than to be under prepared.
Most insulin and CGM suppliers have reported no impact on their manufacturing and distribution capabilities, but if you are having financial difficulty covering your required supplies go to jdrf.org/costs.
Make sure that if you or a loved one with diabetes seeks emergency care:
- a medical ID is prominently displayed
- if possible have instructions on how to properly manage blood sugars on hand.
Some of our medical heroes are having to step into emergency care with short notice and may not be experienced with diabetes care.
Stay home, keep calm, and find ways to keep a healthy body and mind.
Anxiety can take a further toll on your immune system.
Check out these free resources to help you stay calm and positive in these trying times. (these are not sponsored links)
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Watch the Met Opera or Broadway Musicals for free at home.
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Get free access to workouts until May 31st.
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Take Ivy League level classes.
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Learn how to cook from chefs in quarantine.
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Clean your house - eliminating dust and regulating humidity can help keep your lungs healthy. This is useful in the case that you get sick as COVID-19 targets the lungs first.
Share your favorite facts, quarantine qualms, and wellness tips in this survey!
Thank you all for staying inside and staying safe.
You and your families are in our hearts during these uncertain times.
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