Answer:

Hot weather makes people with diabetes sweat more, leading to dehydration which can impair blood sugar control. High temperatures also increase the risk of low blood sugar for those using insulin. This is because the body's metabolism increases in hot weather, and insulin absorption also rises, leading to a greater risk of hypoglycemia.

Elevated temperatures make people with diabetes feel hotter than healthy individuals. Complications such as damage to blood vessels and nerves can affect sweat glands, making it difficult for the body to cool itself effectively. This often leads to heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

The signs of both high and low blood sugar in diabetics are easily confused with symptoms of heatstroke, such as headache, dizziness, sweating, and fatigue due to the heat. This can cause individuals to overlook these symptoms and delay timely treatment.

People with diabetes should drink more water in hot weather. Photo created by AI

To stay healthy during hot weather, you should drink more water, carrying it with you if you are working or active outdoors. Drink water in small sips, avoiding consuming too much at once. Do not quench your thirst with soft drinks, carbonated beverages, or fruit juices, as these can cause blood sugar to rise. Prioritize fruits like apples, avocados, guavas, grapefruits, peaches, pears, plums, and strawberries, instead of high glycemic index fruits such as longan, lychee, jackfruit, and durian.

When going out in the sun, wear long-sleeved shirts, loose pants, a hat, and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen. Store blood sugar monitoring devices and insulin away from direct sunlight, as this can damage the medication or lead to inaccurate readings. Insulin can be damaged by sunlight or high temperatures.

When damaged by heat, clear insulin typically becomes cloudy, or cloudy insulin may become gritty, stick to the glass, and turn brown. Insulin should be stored in the refrigerator or a cool bag; do not place it in the freezer.

Monitor your blood sugar more frequently and have regular check-ups with an endocrinologist-diabetologist to adjust your diet and medication as needed.

In cases of heat exhaustion or dehydration causing headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, muscle cramps, stomach spasms, or pale skin, move to a cool place to rest. Afterwards, go to the nearest medical facility for prompt emergency care.

Dr. Tran Thuy Ngan, Second Degree Specialist

Head of Endocrinology - Diabetes Unit

Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic