The arrival of monsoon has the entire nation breathing a sigh of relief. After months of scorching heat, the cool breeze and cloud cover are a welcome change. However, this season also brings with it several complications such as infections and water borne diseases which pose a serious health threat especially for diabetics. While overall healthcare in monsoon is essential for everyone, it is crucial for people with diabetes to avoid changes in blood sugar levels and potential problems.
Here are some important care tips for diabetics to protect their health while enjoying the season to its fullest:
Be wary of foot infections: Puddles in the ground due to potholes or blocked drainage is a common sight for most of us. And chances are even though you’ve tried your best to escape them, you’ve stepped in a few. Since this water is bound to be contaminated, it is advisable to wash your feet with soap as soon as you reach home and wear clean slippers. Place your shoes in the open, preferably in the sun, to dry out and eliminate bacterial growth. Also, be sure to change your socks daily.
If your feet get dry and itchy, apply some moisturiser to them as dry skin tends to increase chances of cuts which can lead to infections. However, be sure to avoid the region between your toes as with sweat or moisture it can aid bacterial infection. Also, do not walk around bare feet at all, even in the house. Germs and infections are very high this season and walking bare feet is sure to get you infected.
Be sure to monitor your feet very carefully in this season. Simple things like boils, corn, rashes or cuts could get infected and lead to serious complications. Alert your doctor instantly if you notice any changes.
No stopping at the chaatwala: Even though standing in the rain and snacking on your favourite chaat may sound like a fun idea, it is a big no! Water borne diseases are at the peak this season and eating out should be avoided at this time. Not only will such an illness affect blood sugar levels, but it can also cause severe problems. The most common symptoms of these diseases are diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, often resulting in dehydration. For diabetics, this is more problematic as low hydration levels stress the kidney even further, increasing chances of kidney damage. Also, if food consumption is reduced due to nausea while maintaining regular diabetic dosage it could cause hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).
Avoid getting wet in the rain: Getting drenched in the rain can cause respiratory infections and high fever. While they may not seem so problematic by themselves, they can have a negative impact on blood sugar levels. Also, the immune system may be compromised increasing recovery time. So in case you do get caught in the rain, be sure to take a warm shower as soon as you get home and change into clean, dry clothes.
Stop giving excuses: While it may seem easy to skip your exercise routine if it is raining, but it is not the most prudent thing to do. Move out when the rain stops or there is a light drizzle. If the rain is heavy, climb the stairs of your apartment or walk around the house or walk in the basement area. Monsoon will stay, but you need to plan out the easiest way to keep up to your exercise schedule.
Monitor blood sugar levels regularly: People with abnormal blood sugar levels will be more susceptible to infections. Also, a change in these levels can signify the onset of an illness. So be sure to stick to your meal plan and exercise routine, and monitor sugar levels routinely. In case you observe any changes in your results, be sure to inform your doctor immediately.
A few simple precautions and care will allow you to enjoy this season to its fullest. After all, the monsoons are known to put a big smile on everyone’s faces! So here’s a positive tip for diabetics, the one monsoon snack you can indulge in – jamuns! These tasty, tiny purple fruits, popular in this season, are great for diabetics as they help control blood sugar while having no calories. A little care this season can go a long way in keeping you fit and healthy the rest of the year!
For Full Care of Diabetes,
Visit www.lifespanindia.com
Call 1800 3000 1893
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