Having either type 1 or type 2 diabetes can make you more likely to get severely ill with COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Tiffany Pankow, MD, VP, chief of caregiver wellness and patient experience and director of Diabetes Education for the HonorHealth Medical Group, answers frequently asked questions about diabetes and COVID-19.
1. Why does having diabetes put me at increased risk of COVID-19 infection?
Many people with chronic medical conditions, including diabetes, can be at increased risk of a more significant infection with COVID-19. The virus can worsen complications of diabetes, including hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and severe hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
While we do not know all the reasons why patients with diabetes might have a more significant illness, we do know that diabetes in general can affect the body’s ability to fight infection. This is true of other viral illnesses as well – that’s why the COVID-19 vaccine, flu shots and other vaccinations are recommended.
If you are experiencing symptoms of coronavirus, call us at 623-580-5800, so we can direct you to the best place for care. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
2. How can I protect myself from getting COVID-19 if I have diabetes?
In addition to practicing the recommended CDC guidelines on infection prevention (like washing your hands, not touching your face, wearing a mask and social distancing), follow your regular care plan to control your blood sugar. It's important that you:
- Get your vaccinations. Visit the CDC.gov for more information on the most up-to-date immunization guidelines.
- Take your medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Ensure that you have enough medications, lancets and test strips.
- Stay on top of your care. Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider help you manage diabetes and optimize treatment. Video visits are available for education, guidance and meal planning.
- Make healthy nutrition choices to keep your blood sugar better controlled or reach out to your healthcare provider if you need more help controlling your blood sugar.
- Stay active for 30 minutes a day.
- Maintain a healthy weight. People who are overweight tend to suffer from inflammation and their immune system often has to work harder, so a healthy weight will play in your favor.
- Get enough sleep every night and reach out for help if you are feeling more stressed or anxious than normal. Sleep and stress management are important ways you can boost your immune system.
3. What should I do if I develop symptoms of COVID-19?
We encourage you to reach out to your primary care provider if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 to see what recommendations for treatment and care are best for you. Treatment options are best discussed and started early on in the course of your illness in order to be most effective. Some people may benefit from the use of monoclonal antibodies, which can be discussed with a trusted care provider.
Your doctor may also recommend a video visit to get a better understanding of your symptoms and make additional recommendations for testing and care. You’ll also need to closely monitor your blood sugar levels and reach out to your provider if you’re having trouble managing them.
4. What other resources are available to help me manage my diabetes during this time?
In addition to in-person or video visits with your primary care physician, your healthcare provider can arrange video visits with other members of your care team, including a dietitian or behavioral health specialist.
HonorHealth Medication Management helps you get the most from your medications. A clinical pharmacist works with you and your doctor to safely manage high-risk medications and support your unique needs, whether you take multiple prescriptions, manage diabetes or use blood thinners.