What if I become ill?

People with diabetes do not get more illnesses than other people, but if you do get ill your glucose control may be upset. You might also be more prone to some infections if your blood glucose is high. Common illnesses such as flu, sore throats or stomach trouble may upset your diabetes control, but blood glucose levels will usually return to normal once you are better.

Coping with illness

Here are a few important things to remember if you are feeling unwell

• Always continue to take your medication, even if you do not feel like eating.

• Remember to stay hydrated, drink lots of water (4-6 pints a day) – if you are being sick and do not feel like eating then you could try drinking some sugary (i.e. carbohydrate-containing) drinks instead.

• If you monitor your blood glucose at home, you may wish to test your blood glucose more often. Make sure you get in contact with your healthcare team for further advice if your blood glucose remains outwith the normal range.

• If you take insulin you may need to increase the amount of insulin required during illness. Your diabetes care team should talk you through this.

• Inform your healthcare team if you have been vomiting for more than 4 hours.

Do not stop taking your tablets without medical advice. General sick day advice for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes is shown below – these are not tailored for pregnancy, so please seek advice before applying them.

If you’re taking tablets, Sick day guidance for type 2 diabetes is likely to be more relevant.

If you’re taking insulin, sick day guidance for type 1 diabetes is more likely to be relevant .

If you have any doubts, contact your diabetes care team – particularly if you are unwell during pregnancy or your blood glucose levels are out of control.

Be prepared for illness

• Flu vaccines are recommended for some people with diabetes, and may be recommended during pregnancy – ask at your GP surgery to see if this might be advised for you.
• Keep basic medicines in the house such as painkillers and cough medicines (after checking they are suitable during pregnancy).
• If you monitor your blood glucose, or are at risk of low blood glucose, then keep a supply of test strips and sugary drinks at home for emergencies.
• Ensure you always have a supply of your medication. Check if your practice will do repeat prescriptions online that can be picked up at your local pharmacy.