Sick Day Regimen

Unfortunately, all of us sometimes come down with a bad cold or flu. As diabetics, this places some special stresses on our systems. The body will usually increase insulin resistance and create glucose to fight the infection, so it is perfectly normal to have higher blood glucose when you are sick.

Being sick is the most common cause of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) in Type-1s, so it is wise to have a pre-planned Sick Day Regimen worked out with your doctor. Here are some generalizations:

• Take your Meds!
• Test Often!
• If unusually high, check ketones!
• Keep a log of all tests and meds taken.
• Danger Signs:

• Stomach pains
• Fruity Breath
• Diarrhea
• Fast Breathing
• Vomiting
• Fast or Slow Heartbeat

If your BG is over 250 mg/dL (14 mmol/L) for 24 hr., or you have any Danger Signs above, call your doctor or CDE.

Drink lots of fluids. If your BG is high, drink water, diet soda, unsweetened tea, etc. Try instant broth, ice chips, sugar-free popsicles, etc.

If your BG is low, drink non-diet soda, sweetened tea, fruit juice, or eat glucose tablets to raise it.

Be Prepared

You might not be able to run to the store, so keep a supply on hand of:

• Insulin and Syringes, if used
• Diabetes meds
• Testing strips
• Ketone Strips
• Glucose tablets
• Glucagon kit
• Regular and Sugar-free soda
• Instant broth
• Both Regular and Diet Jello

When in doubt, Call Your Doctor!