Around April, as the mercury begins to rise during the hottest part of the year, everyone is thinking about the sweltering temperatures, refreshing drinks, and finding a place to cool off for the Songkran holiday. But, for people with chronic diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure, they may be thinking about heat exhaustion and heat stroke. This group requires special attention during this time of year. Without proper care, the hot summer months can lead to sickness or even death.
Easy steps that anyone can take
- Drink 1-2 glasses of water before leaving the house. If you need to be out in the hot weather, continue drinking 1 liter of water per hour, or at least 6-8 glasses.
- Get medical consultation before starting new medications. Some medications can increase your blood sugar. So, if it is necessary to start taking new medications, be sure to check whether it affects blood sugar levels.
- Carefully watch what you eat. Diabetics should avoid sugary foods, watch their weight, exercise regularly, and stay positive to avoid stress or anxiety.
- Do not walk barefoot. Avoid walking barefoot, especially on hot surfaces or sand with sharp rocks, since it can result in injuries on the feet. Wounds on the feet and legs are especially risky for diabetics.
- Avoid drinking alcohol or taking recreational drugs of any kind.
- Avoid lengthy workouts in hot weather. Exercise should be done during the cool parts of the day and in a well-ventilated place.
- Keep your insulin at the proper temperature. For diabetics that require insulin injections, be sure to store the insulin at room temperature. It should not be kept in a hot place.
- Watch out for heat stroke. Heat stroke and heat exhaustion in diabetics can, without proper care, be severe and even lead to death.
