The Ongoing COVID 19 infection is a double challenge for people with diabetes. Diabetes is a risk factor for the severity of the disease. Diabetes increases the chance of getting any infection. People who have uncontrolled blood sugar levels are at high risk of developing infection and its more severe form. During the lockdown conditions, people have to control blood sugar in a situation with decreased or more variable availability of food.
COVID 19 (Coronavirus Disease ) is caused by coronavirus SARS- CoV-2 organism. It has quickly spread to more than 160 countries across the globe. The mode of transmission is primarily by respiratory droplets between people. It is characterized by a wide variety of symptoms including fever, cough and breathing difficulties.
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More than 425 million people worldwide have diabetes. There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Gestational diabetes is another type that affects some women during pregnancy.
Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune type and usually present from childhood. It results in no or very little insulin production. These patients need Insulin to be given externally.
The majority of people have type 2 diabetes and are on oral medicines. Many have Obesity and hypertension as well. Some of them may need Insulin as well.
According to the Center for disease control and prevention (CDC) people with diabetes who develop COVID 19 are at a higher risk of developing a serious illness like Pneumonia.
- Control your Blood sugar properly. Check Your Blood Sugar and HbA1c levels. Maintain HbA1c levels around 6.5 to 7. Continue treatment as per your doctor's advice.
- Avoid Excessive Amounts of Carbohydrates and Sugar. You can increase protein intake. Similarly, Excessive salts and fried food items should be avoided. The intake of green leafy vegetables and salads should be increased.
- Continue Physical Exercises. During quarantine periods many people are unable to go outside for walks and outdoor exercises. Try to do some workouts at home to remain fit. You can do aerobics and yoga at home. Mindfulness can also help to reduce anxiety and stress during these turbulent times.
Author: Dr. Nishikant Sharma MD FACP. Consultant Internal Medicine Specialist with Special Interest in the field of Diabetes.
He is also a student at Northwestern University Coursera.
He is an advocate of Quality Healthcare for all at affordable prices.
He wants to empower people with scientific knowledge so that they can face diseases successfully with confidence and a positive attitude.
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