As the UK experiences record temperatures, charity Diabetes UK is urging people with diabetes to take extra precautions. Prolonged inactivity in the sun can raise blood sugar levels, while warm weather can also cause injected insulin to be absorbed more quickly, increasing the risk of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).
The charity advises checking blood sugar levels more frequently and being prepared to adjust insulin doses and diet. Keeping sugary snacks on hand is recommended to treat hypos. Insulin can become cloudy and dangerous if exposed to heat or direct sunlight, so proper storage is essential.
Beth McDaniel, 22, from County Down, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2019, creates educational content online with her best friend Ellen, who has had diabetes since age six. McDaniel told BBC News she was shocked to learn about the extra precautions needed in summer, such as using cooler bags for insulin at the beach.
Managing diabetes during the UK heatwave has been “hard,” McDaniel said. Unlike holidays, where she is prepared for hot weather, at home it can be “daunting.” She stays hydrated and keeps her equipment at room temperature. Her family colour-codes chocolate bars and stocks cans of coke for hypos, which visitors are told are reserved for the diabetics.
There are two main types of diabetes, both causing blood sugar to be too high. With temperatures soaring, those affected are advised to stay vigilant.
