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Published Sep 23, 2023

#1014 Diabetes Pro Tip: Glucagon & Low BGs (Remastered)

Scott Benner and Jenny Smith provide expert insights into managing type 1 diabetes during emergencies, illness, and medical procedures, highlighting preparedness strategies, insulin adjustments, and maintaining blood sugar stability to ensure safety and effective diabetes management under challenging circumstances.
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Episode Highlights

  • Illness Impact

    Illness can significantly alter insulin requirements, and understanding these changes is crucial for effective diabetes management. and discuss how common illnesses, like stomach bugs, can lead to higher blood sugars, necessitating adjustments in insulin dosages. Jenny notes that digestive system issues are particularly concerning, as they can prevent proper food absorption, leading to unpredictable blood sugar levels 1.

    It's more the bugs that hit the digestive system that are the fear for most people.

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    For those using insulin pumps, setting a temporary basal rate can help manage these fluctuations, while those on multiple daily injections may need to adjust their basal insulin by 10-20% during illness 2.

       

    Hydration

    Staying hydrated is vital during sick days, especially when dealing with stomach issues. and emphasize the importance of maintaining fluid balance, suggesting options like sports drinks and electrolyte solutions such as Drip Drop, which provide necessary electrolytes without excessive carbohydrates 3.

    It's very, um, dense with what you need to.

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    Jenny advises against pre-bolusing during these times, recommending bolusing only after ensuring food stays down, as absorption rates may be reduced to 50-60% 4.

       

    Seek Help

    Recognizing when to seek professional medical help is crucial during serious illness. and discuss the importance of monitoring ketone levels, as moderate to high ketones can indicate a need for emergency care, even if blood sugars aren't alarmingly high 5. Jenny explains that in such cases, intravenous fluids can be essential for clearing ketones and preventing complications.

    If your ketones are at that moderate, high level, you definitely need some help clearing those, or you're going to be in trouble.

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    Scott shares a personal story about managing high ketones at home, highlighting the importance of hydration and insulin in avoiding hospital visits 5.

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