Adult Diabetes: Sick Day Plan
According to the
American Diabetes Association , being sick
can greatly increase your blood glucose (sugar) level and can cause serious
conditions that could potentially put you in a coma. Be sure to work out a sick
day plan so that when you get sick, you will feel safe and secure. You can work
with your physician or a diabetes educator to create this plan, which should
include how often to measure blood sugar and urine ketones, what medicines to
take and how to eat.
You should also attach a
list of phone numbers for your doctor, dietitian and diabetes educator to your
sick day plan in case of emergencies.
Medicines
When you're sick, it's
important to continue taking medicine for your diabetes. Even if you are vomiting,
continue taking your medication because your body makes extra glucose when
you're sick.
Food and Drink
Eating and drinking can be
a challenge when you're sick, so it's important to include a meal plan in your
sick day plan. The American Diabetes Association recommends eating
approximately 50 grams of carbohydrates every three-to-four hours.
Fluids
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup soup
- ½ cup fruit juice
- ½ cup regular soft drink
(not diet)
Foods
- 1 slice dry toast (not
light bread)
- 6 saltine crackers
- 1/3 cup frozen yogurt
- 3 graham crackers
- ½ cup mashed potatoes
- ½ cup regular ice cream
- ¼ cup regular pudding
