Hot weather affects more than comfort for a person with diabetes. It can alter fluid needs, insulin absorption, physical activity and the interpretation of symptoms such as sweating, weakness and dizziness. High temperatures can also damage insulin, test strips and some electronic devices.

People do not all respond in the same way. Dehydration may raise glucose, while vasodilation, faster insulin absorption or increased activity may contribute to hypoglycaemia. More frequent monitoring and an individual plan are therefore safer than arbitrary treatment changes.


Why dehydration can raise blood glucose


When the amount of water in the body falls, glucose in the bloodstream may become more concentrated. High glucose can then increase urination and worsen fluid loss, creating a cycle of dehydration and hyperglycaemia.

Thirst is not always an early warning sign, particularly in older adults. Regular water intake, unless a clinician has prescribed fluid restriction because of heart or kidney disease, and attention to urine frequency and colour may help identify fluid loss.


Hypoglycaemia and heat illness can look similar


Sweating, trembling, weakness, a rapid heartbeat, dizziness and confusion can occur in both hypoglycaemia and heat-related illness. Assuming that symptoms are “just the heat” may delay treatment of low glucose.

Blood glucose should be checked when suspicious symptoms occur, following the person's management plan. People using continuous glucose monitoring should have a backup method available if the device fails or readings do not match symptoms.


Insulin must not overheat or freeze


Direct sunlight, a closed car or very high temperatures can make insulin less effective. It should not be placed directly on ice or allowed to freeze, because freezing also damages it.

Use an appropriate insulated container while travelling and follow the official storage instructions for the specific insulin. Limits differ by product and according to whether the container has been opened.


Heat can also affect devices


Glucose meters, test strips, insulin pumps, transmitters and continuous-monitoring sensors have defined operating and storage temperatures. Leaving them on a beach towel, in a glove compartment or in a car boot can affect function or accuracy.

Keep devices shaded, dry and within manufacturer limits. Repeated unusual results or visibly damaged supplies should not be ignored.


Building a heat-safety plan


A plan can include sufficient supplies, water, a rapid source of glucose, a backup meter or strips and a companion who knows what to do in an emergency. Exercise can be scheduled during cooler hours, and more frequent testing may be needed.

Do not change insulin or other medication doses solely because the weather is hot. A doctor or diabetes team can help create a personalised plan for work, exercise and travel.


When urgent help is required


Confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, inability to swallow, very high or low glucose that does not respond to the personal plan, persistent vomiting or signs of diabetic ketoacidosis require urgent care. Do not give food or drink to a person with an altered level of consciousness. https://healthpont.com/?p=41401