Heatwave warnings for diabetics: Stay cool, stay safe

An endocrinologist has advised people, especially those with diabetes, to stay hydrated and follow necessary precautions during the heatwave to prevent medical complications.

Dr Sania Bashir, an endocrinologist, has cautioned that prolonged power outages during hot weather can lead to increased sweating, disrupting blood sugar levels and potentially causing hyperglycemia in diabetics.

Common issues experienced by diabetics in the summer include neuropathy, limb numbness, weakness, joint swelling, and problems with sweating due to nervous and physical exhaustion and heat stroke. Additionally, changes in weather, particularly during summer, can affect the effectiveness of insulin. The functionality of insulin may be impacted by the temperature changes in refrigerators caused by prolonged power outages.

Dr Sania also mentioned that excessive sweating could affect glucometer readings, so it is advisable to check blood sugar levels with the glucometer once the sweat has dried. People with diabetes are more prone to low blood sugar in the summer because higher body temperature and accelerated glucose breakdown increase insulin absorption, leading to significantly low sugar levels-a medical emergency.

Therefore, during the summer, diabetic patients should consume ample water, avoid sugary drinks, maintain a regular insulin regimen, and ensure proper storage of other medications.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 27^th, 2023.