Managing High Blood Sugar During Sick Days

When you catch a common cold, the flu, or a stomach infection, your body releases stress hormones to fight the illness. These hormones naturally raise your blood sugar levels. For someone with diabetes, being sick can quickly spiral out of control.

The Sick Day Rules

1. Never Stop Your Insulin: Even if you are vomiting and unable to eat, your blood sugar might actually be rising. Never skip your basal (long-acting) insulin without speaking to your doctor.
2. Test Frequently: Check your blood sugar every 2 to 4 hours.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of sugar-free fluids (water, clear broths, pale tea) to prevent dehydration. If you can't keep food down, sip on liquids containing some sugar (like ORS) to prevent hypoglycemia if you took insulin.

When to Go to the Hospital

Seek immediate medical attention if you cannot keep any fluids down for more than 4 hours, if your blood sugar remains above 300 mg/dL despite extra insulin, or if you experience fruity-smelling breath and heavy breathing (signs of Diabetic Ketoacidosis).