People with diabetes are vulnerable to high temperatures

2023-06-28 23:00:11

According to the ENSANUT 2022 the prevalence of diagnosed diabetes in Mexico is 12.6% and the undiagnosed is 5.8%.
Intense heat causes damage to blood vessels and nerves, which can affect sweat glands, so the body can’t cool itself as effectively.
The arrival of high temperatures puts everyone at risk, but especially those with diabetes.

Over the past few weeks, intense heat has been recorded in much of the national territory. In addition to causing discomfort in people, it is also an aspect that can put health at risk. But although it affects everyone, people with diabetes are the most vulnerable to high temperatures.

The above phenomenon generates the phenomenon known as heatstroke. It is characterized by a sudden increase in body temperature, hot and dry skin without sweat. Also confusion or loss of consciousness, frequent vomiting, shortness of breath or trouble breathing.

The high temperatures that have recently hit the entire Mexican Republic have wreaked havoc on the health of some people, who have presented dehydration and heat strokes that have even had lethal consequences.

Impact of diabetes

According to Dr. Martha Rangel, family physician and Diabetes Educator for the Mexican Federation of Diabetes, “There are certain complications of diabetes, damage to the blood vessels and nerves can affect the sweat glands. So the body can’t cool down as effectively. That can cause people living with this condition to develop heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which is a medical emergency.”

People living with diabetes become dehydrated faster than a person who does not have the condition. Also, not drinking enough fluids can raise blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and this can cause a person to urinate more, which causes dehydration.

Some commonly used medications such as diuretics, which are used by people living with high blood pressure, can also cause fluid loss in the body.

In the case of people who require insulin to control their blood sugar levels, the specialist said that high temperatures can change the way your body uses insulin. So perhaps these people need to measure their levels more frequently and adjust their insulin dose, as well as their food and drinks.

Advice for people with diabetes in times of high temperatures

To be safe during the summer, the Mexican Federation of Diabetes share the following recommendations in the face of intense heat.

Increase your fluid intake Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, such as coffee and energy or sports drinks, which can cause water loss and raise your blood sugar levels Check your blood sugar frequently Maintain Keep medications, supplies, and glucose testing equipment away from heat Keep in cool, ventilated places while temperatures stay high Wear sunscreen and a hat when outside. Sunburn can increase blood sugar levels Wear loose, light-colored clothing See a doctor for heat stroke, dehydration, or any heat-related condition

Heat and humidity: not a refreshing combination

Although the National Meteorological System of Mexico City has predicted a drop in high temperatures, compared to previous weeks, the arrival of summer promises a combination of sunny days with heat. Although it may seem that the temperature is not high outside, the combination of heat and humidity can be dangerous.

In the case of physical activity, which is key to good management of the condition, it is advisable not to do outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, it is better to leave very early in the morning or at sunset.

Over the past few decades, the prevalence of diabetes has been increasing, according to the National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT) 2022the prevalence of diagnosed diabetes is 12.6% and the undiagnosed is 5.8%.

Therefore, today more than ever it is important to increase education for the management of this condition, so that people living with diabetes, family members, and health professionals have the necessary tools to care for the condition.

Also read:

Heat waves cause the death of a retired nurse: She could not stand the extreme heat

Diabetes should not be “normalized” among Mexican society

Heat waves: Doctors publish protection recommendations