No one likes the cold and flu season, but diabetics have more reason to dread it than most. A person that is relatively healthy can expect to be out of commission for about three to four days. A person with diabetes could end up in the hospital, especially if they do not keep close tabs on their blood sugar levels.

Those with diabetes are encouraged to receive flu shots to defend themselves from coming down with the flu. The common cold or the flu increases stress on the body causes the blood glucose levels to rise. The majority of medications being sold to relieve symptoms connected with cold and flu have elevated levels of sugar. A diabetic needs to get into the habit of reading labels on commonly sold medications and looking for ones that are free of sugars or low in sugar. These medicines will not shorten the amount of time that is spent sick with a cold or the flu. A diabetic needs to consider whether feeling better outweighs the risk of elevating blood sugar levels into the danger zone.

Next, a diabetic probably is not eating well if they are feeling sick, especially if they are nauseous and/or vomiting and have diarrhea. A diabetic needs to eat a nutritious diet to maintain good blood sugar levels. Doctors advise consuming 15 grams of carbohydrates every hour, but they are aware that in this type of situation, this goal probably is not going to be met. They will typically counsel a diabetic to go on taking their medications as they usually do.

Dehydration is another risk that a diabetic can experience. Drinking plenty of fluids is essential. Water, tea, and broth are good if the blood sugars remain within the normal and high ranges. Should the blood sugar levels drop, drinking a half cup of apple juice or other heavily sugared juice is advised

It is crucial to keep a close eye on the blood sugar levels while sick as they can go up or down very drastically and very rapidly. Seeing as the diabetic is already feeling miserable as a consequence of have a cold or the flu, they may miss warning signs that their glucose levels are out of whack. Ketones need to be watched as well. Ketones are the final result of extreme fatty-acid breakdown and are located in the urine only after ketone levels in the blood attain a certain level. If a urine test shows ketones, notify your doctor without delay. Coma is the outcome of untreated high levels of ketones in the urine.

While no one can prevent getting the cold or flu 100%, they can take steps to reduce their risks. Getting a flu shot and encouraging those around them, like friends, loved ones and co-workers, to get one as well is a good start. Flu shots cannot guarantee that one will not get the flu, however for about six months it makes it more difficult to get it.

A pneumonia shot is an additional means to protect you from getting critically laid up. Pneumonia shots are obtainable by everyone over the age of two who is at an advanced danger of dying from pneumonia (an infection in the lungs), like diabetic patients. Pneumonia shots are 60% helpful in fending off other grave disease like meningitis (infection in the brain) and bacterernia (infection in the blood).

Lastly, the number one way to avoid getting sick is simply by washing one’s hands frequently and thoroughly. The simple act of hand washing removes germs and bacteria, preventing them from entering one’s body by way of the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Talking with a physician before becoming ill and learning what to expect and when to contact them is important.

Julia Hanf author of the book How To Play the Diabetes Diet Game and Win Through a real life crisis Julia figured out how to live diabetes free. Visit http://www.yourdiabetescure.com and learn more about your solution for diabetes.