Diabetes and flu

Posted: 11/29/2016

People with diabetes have a high chance of getting very sick from the flu. Getting the flu when you have diabetes can send you to the hospital or make it hard to control your blood sugar. Get a flu shot every year to keep yourself from getting the flu. 

If you do get sick, follow these tips:

• Keep taking your diabetes pills or insulin even if you can’t eat. 
• Test your blood sugar every four hours. Keep track of your numbers.
• Drink extra water and liquids and try to eat normally. 
• Weigh yourself every day. Losing weight without trying is a sign of high blood sugar.
• Check your temperature every morning and evening. A fever can be a sign of infection. 

To schedule an appointment with a doctor, call 214.266.4000. To get a flu shot without an appointment, visit a Parkland clinic from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1 to 4 p.m. every Wednesday throughout the fall and winter months.