Illness
If you are diabetic taking insulin or tablets and are unsure how to manage when you are ill, this information may be helpful.
NEVER STOP TAKING INSULIN OR ORAL HYPOGLYCAEMIC DRUGS EVEN IF YOU CANNOT EAT
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Illness will cause a rise in blood sugars so insulin dose may need to be increased over the period of illness.
- Blood sugars will need to be tested more regularly over the day (at least 4 times)
- Aim for plenty of water or unsweetened fluids to prevent dehydration 4-6 pints a day.
If not eating solid food try alternatives: milk, soup, ice-cream, fruit juice, sugar, glucose, honey, jam, or suck boiled sweets or glucose tablets.
If blood sugars in the twenty’s, vomiting and unable to keep anything down you must telephone your GP.
Once illness improves the dose of your tablets or insulin will need to be adjusted back down to pre illness levels. Hence the need to monitor blood sugars to assess what is happening and what action is needed.
If you are uncertain about adjusting your insulin dose you are advised to speak to your Diabetes Nurse Specialist, Practice nurse or GP.