Diabetes Puts You At Risk For the Flu

It's that time of year again! Everyone's favorite cold and flu season!
If you're a diabetic, it is especially important you take precautions and measures to ensure you do not fall sick.
"Diabetes can weaken your immune system against the flu, and it also puts you at an increased risk of flu-

related complications," said Fernando Ovalle, M.D., professor of medicine at the UAB School of Medicine and senior scientist in the UAB Comprehensive Diabetes Center.
Ovalle has the following recommendations for diabetics and parents of diabetics to prevent against the flu:

• Get a flu vaccination shot. Those with diabetes cannot take the nasal spray vaccine.
• Talk with your endocrinologist about the pneumonia vaccine.
• Keep track of your blood glucose, which can be affected by illness.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
• Get plenty of sleep and exercise, manage your stress, drink lots of fluids, and eat healthy food.

If you think you've gotten the flu, follow these tips:

• Call your doctor immediately. Symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, headaches, and fatigue. In children, vomitting and diarrhea can be common.
• Take your diabetes medication every day.
• Continue to test your blood glucose every four hours.
• Stay hydrated by drinking lots of calorie-free liquids.
• Eat normally.
• Weigh yourself every day. Losing weight without trying is a sign of high blood glucose. 

"Experiencing the flu is no fun for anyone, and especially those with diabetes," says Ovalle. "Be vigilant and smart, especially when it comes to washing your hands. And if you ever have any questions or concerns, contact your health care provider."
Reference: News Medical
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