Sickness and Blood Sugars

[lizabetic]

Hi, i've been ill most of the week as I said earlier with a chesty cough. In fact this seems to be getting worse, my glands are up and sore and have one of those dull illness headaches

It's taking quite a while to go and i'm just wondering would it be better (next time, too late now..) to get medication from the doctors or at least see them, even if it's just a nasty cough. My thinking is that obviously it pushes my blood sugar up and surely thats not helping my recovery? It always seems like illness takes ages to go away for me. I was waking up in the 9s, now at 7.9 (better) and after meals rise to 14 and had an 18 the other day, jus tto give you an idea.
So what is the safer bet really?

 

[Robster65]

Hi Liz.

If it's just a normal viral infection, I don't think there's anything they can give you that will hasten it clearing up. Anti-biotics only work on bacterial infections and other meds (as far as I know) will only ease symptoms.

It may be the high BGs that are slowing the recovery. I found I had to go against my fears and raise basal and bolus as needed, at risk of hypo if I suddenly recovered. But it kept my BGs spot on and I recovered (from an op) quicker than expected.

I hope you feel better soon and maybe a trip to the GP is needed in case it's more than just a virus.🙂

Rob

 

[Natalie123]

Hi, Like Rob said, there's probably not much they can give you but it would be worth a telephone appointment if your sugar levels are getting hard to control. They can then advise you on adjustments etc. I find I need to take more insulin when I am ill but tend to seek advice if I am worried.

 

[lizabetic]

Thanks for your replies, just I don't take insulin or any medication so I find illness makes everything very out of whack. I know its only temporary so should I be worried ?

 

[Natalie123]

Thanks for your replies, just I don't take insulin or any medication so I find illness makes everything very out of whack. I know its only temporary so should I be worried ?

Ah, sorry, I didn't realise you didn't take insulin. It might be worth discussing with your team what you should do in these situations so that you can get some reasurrance. If it is only a few days it shouldn't be harmful, it is your long term control that is most important. It is worth asking about though.