Coronavirus and Diabetes: Steps a diabetic patient must take to stay healthy

Coronavirus and Diabetes

As India prepares to return to normalcy in stages, we remain at risk, given that the huge population has made India the third-worst COVID-affected country in the world today. Dr. Ayush, the finest diabetologist from Ghaziabad, believes that it is more important than ever to take strict precautions to stay safe, especially when caring for people who are at high risk. COVID-19 is a coronavirus induced by the SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus that causes coughing, fever, myalgia, and respiratory consequences include viral pneumonia and respiratory failure. Although HPV can infect people of any age, it is more common in the elderly and has pre-existing medical disorders like diabetes.

COVID-19 and diabetes have a bidirectional association, according to him, and are linked to increased risk and mortality. Patients with diabetes accounted for roughly 20-30% of COVID-19 fatalities, according to the study. According to the researchers, the novel Coronavirus can modify glucose metabolism, thereby complicating the condition of pre-existing diabetes or leading to new disease mechanisms. Given the nature of both of these diseases, India must raise awareness about them. As the world’s second-most-affected country in terms of diabetes, we must better understand the risk factors associated with the condition to combat it better. The risk variables are grouped into two categories: immunity and glucose levels and physical limitations.

An examination of the virus’s symptoms reveals how it affects a patient’s immune system. It is contagious and spreads in the same way as bacterial infections, and other respiratory illnesses do. Because of the immune system dysfunction produced by hyperglycemia, diabetic people are more prone to infections and other comorbidities. This makes it more difficult for patients to fight the disease and results in lengthier recovery times. Poor glycemic management compromises the immunological response to viral illness and sets the stage for subsequent bacterial infections in the lungs.

As a result, diabetic patients must be more cautious and take extra care of their health. Dr. Ayush, Ghaziabad‘s well-known diabetologist, would like to recommend diabetes patients in India.

1. How to keep yourself safe if you have diabetes

Diabetes does not make a person more susceptible to COVID-19, but it does make them more likely to have significant consequences once infected. This can be determined by examining data from the first and second waves, revealing that many hospitalized or experienced severe symptoms had high blood sugar levels. With over 12% of Indians suffering from diabetes, it is critical for a diabetic patient to stay healthy and safe at this time. Here are some things they can do now to prepare for the pandemic and adjust to the new normal.

2. Eat a balanced diet

Coronavirus and Diabetes

A diabetic patient must avoid a variety of foods in addition to sugar and sweets. Several other foods can cause blood sugar spikes and should be avoided in the diet. Some of them include starchy veggies, processed flour, and trans fats. They should consume green vegetables, whole grains, citrus fruits, and nuts daily. A nutrient-dense diet also helps to strengthen your immune system.

3. Maintain an active lifestyle

According to a Ghaziabad-based diabetologist, excessive blood sugar levels are the most significant risk factor in diabetes. It is also critical to be active and exercise regularly to regain control of blood sugar levels. Walking, running, or lifting weights are all excellent fitness options. Moderate exercise for 30-45 minutes is sufficient to maintain good health. All you have to do is be consistent and do the workouts correctly. Matt Schmidt with Diabetes Life Solutions mentions the following “not only is exercise an important way to help control your Diabetes condition, but it may help you save money on insurance premiums. Life insurance for type 2 diabetes individuals may be discounted, if you have a regular exercise regimen.  Showing companies that you live in active lifestyle may lead to discounts of 9% to 12% per year.”

4. Drink plenty of water.

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of dehydration because their blood glucose levels impair their body’s ability to hydrate. People with diabetes, regardless of type, are at risk of dehydration and must monitor their water consumption. Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day. Infused water, coconut water, or freshly squeezed juice are all excellent options for people with diabetes. Juice concentrates aren’t the best option.

5. Maintain a healthy stress level

stress level

Your stress level is also crucial in controlling your blood sugar levels. Stress causes the release of a hormone called cortisol, which directly impacts the body’s glucose levels. It makes it harder for the body to convert glucose to energy, and sugar builds up in the bloodstream as a result. It also exacerbates diabetes symptoms such as headaches, muscle soreness, exhaustion, and others. Stress reduction will assist you in managing your diabetes while also boosting your immunity.

6. Medications

Take all of your doctor’s prescribed medications on schedule. Even if you have a cold or the flu, make sure you take all of your medicines on time to keep your blood sugar under control. Instead of self-prescribing over-the-counter drugs, if you see any symptoms of Coronavirus, see your doctor. Some over-the-counter medications might cause blood sugar fluctuations, which can exacerbate symptoms and lead to consequences. It’s imperative a person stays compliant with the recommended treatment by their doctors.  Not following your doctor’s orders can cause a person to suffer adverse health results, and could cause issues with obtaining health and life insurance products.  Melissa Thompson of Diabetes Life Solutions mentions “Insurance companies will always want to sure an applicant is compliant with the recommended treatment for diabetes.  In the event a person is not, underwriters may decline a person for coverage. Life insurance with type 2 diabetes is harder to obtain to begin with, so you want to make sure you’re following the treatment outlined by your doctor.”

7. Additional coronavirus guidelines to follow

Apart from following all of these basic guidelines to keep healthy and fit, you should also follow all coronavirus guidelines to lower the risk of infection. Here are some basic guidelines that everyone should adhere to.

  • Use a mask regularly.
  • When you’re out and about, maintain social distance.
  • Handwashing regularly
  • If you’re sick, stay at home.

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