DIABETES MANAGEMENT IN SPRING

Spring is already here and our mood rises along with the temperature.

It is an opportunity for our personal rebirth after the cold and the closeness of winter.

As the days get longer and the weather gets better, we have the opportunity to spend more hours outdoors and make the most of our contact with nature.

Let's see how we can enjoy spring  protecting ourselves and our health!

Spring and allergies

Allergies afflict many of us in the spring and require special attention if you suffer from diabetes, as Some allergy medications can affect blood sugar levels.

These medications are:

• Antihistamines. They can make you drowsy, making you less responsive to changes in your blood glucose.
• Decongestants. They can increase your blood sugar, blood pressure, and heart rate.
• Steroids . Also known as corticosteroids, they can increase your glucose. It is recommended that you check your blood sugar frequently or have a continuous glucose monitoring system to avoid sudden fluctuations in your values.

None of these medications are contraindicated for people with diabetes! By following your doctor's instructions, you can effectively manage both allergies and diabetes.

Spring and renewal

As part of the general renewal mood, take the opportunity to clarify the consumables you use. Check if you need a  a new meter or if the test strips have expired. Check the quantities you need, throw away or donate what you don't use, get cases to safely transport your supplies and make sure you always have medicine for emergencies.

Spring and sports

Good weather invites us to enjoy nature more. It doesn't There's no better time to take up a hobby that will keep you active and lift your spirits. Gardening, outdoor sports, and jogging are all great ways to get moving! For people with diabetes, some extra planning is needed before you get started. long hours of exercise or short escapes to nature

Make sure to take the most important things you will need:

• Extra water. Dehydration can increase blood sugar levels. Don't forget to keep water bottles with you at all times.
• Have spare supplies in case anything happens. Carry extra insulin, test strips, and anything else you need for your diabetes in a separate bag to make sure you don't miss anything .
• Wear proper footwear. People with diabetes are more prone to infections and wounds heal more slowly. If you get blisters or cuts on your feet, you are at higher risk of serious infection than someone without diabetes.
• When hiking, wear comfortable boots and good socks.
• If you are swimming, wear flip-flops or sandals. and avoid walking barefoot.

Spring and skin care

Skin health care it is vital at all times of the year. After  In the winter, skin is dry and sensitive, which can be exacerbated in people with diabetes. Diabetes can affect skin health by reducing circulation and nerve function, increasing susceptibility to dryness, itching, and infections. Therefore, maintaining moisture during seasonal transitions is essential.
How can you prepare your skin for spring:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated from the inside out. Proper hydration helps skin stay supple and healthy.
• Monitor your blood sugar levels: Consistently high blood sugar can worsen skin problems. Keeping levels under control is a major contributor to skin health.
• Gentle cleansing: Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid irritation and over-drying.
• Check your skin regularly for any signs of dryness, redness or infection, paying special attention to your feet, as they are particularly vulnerable.
• Sun protection. As the temperature rises, protecting your skin from UV exposure is very important and should not be neglected. Use a sunscreen with a high SPF to avoid damage and further complications.
• Humidity control. Use a humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels in your home and prevent dryness.
• Balanced diet. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids to improve skin elasticity and overall health.
• Avoid hot water. Very hot showers or baths can strip your skin of its natural oils.
• Wear comfortable clothes. Choose natural fabrics like cotton that allow your skin to breathe, reducing allergies and irritation.

Let's enjoy spring with simple self-care steps to protect our health and our skin!

With love and respect for ourselves at all times of the year!

Written by Marianna Metaxa

Educator, Author of the books "My Sweet Kelly" and the fairy tale "Melita and Zacharoulis" and lyricist of the song "Listen to My Heart" which was set to music by Sofia Grammenou

Article sources :

Medronicdiabetes.com​​

Glykouli . gr