Cold and Flu Season with Diabetes: What You Need to Know

When you have diabetes, catching a cold or the flu isn't just an inconvenience — it can throw your blood sugar levels into a tailspin. Cold and flu season with diabetes requires a little extra preparation and know-how to get through safely. The good news is that with the right plan in place, you can manage sick days with confidence.

Why Illness Affects Blood Sugar in People with Diabetes

When your body fights off an infection, it releases stress hormones that can cause blood sugar levels to rise — even if you're barely eating. This is true whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, and it's one reason why sick days deserve special attention.

• Stress hormones like cortisol and glucagon raise blood glucose

• Illness can make insulin less effective than usual

• Reduced appetite may lead to skipped meals or medications

• Vomiting and diarrhea increase the risk of dehydration and low blood sugar

• Blood sugar swings can make you feel even more unwell

The Basics of Sick Day Rules for Diabetes

Sick day rules are a simple set of guidelines your healthcare team recommends to help you manage diabetes during illness. Following these rules can help you avoid serious complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

• Never stop taking your insulin or diabetes medications without doctor guidance

• Check your blood sugar more frequently — every 2 to 4 hours

• Stay well hydrated with water or sugar-free clear fluids

• Keep easy-to-digest carbohydrates on hand in case you need to eat

• Know when to call your doctor or seek emergency care

How Often Should You Check Your Blood Sugar When Sick

During illness, blood sugar can change rapidly and unpredictably, so more frequent monitoring is key. Most healthcare providers recommend checking every two to four hours around the clock until you're feeling better. Having a reliable glucose meter and plenty of test strips on hand before cold and flu season hits is a smart move — MDS Diabetes carries a wide selection to fit your needs.

What to Eat and Drink on Sick Days

Eating can feel like the last thing you want to do when you're ill, but staying nourished and hydrated is essential for blood sugar stability. Aim for small, frequent meals or snacks that include easy-to-tolerate carbohydrates if your levels are running low.

• Sip water, broth, or sugar-free electrolyte drinks throughout the day

• Try easy foods like crackers, toast, applesauce, or plain rice

• Avoid sugary sports drinks or juices that can spike blood sugar

• If you can't keep food down, contact your healthcare provider right away

• Continue counting carbs as best you can to guide medication decisions

Over-the-Counter Medications to Use With Caution

Not all cold and flu remedies are safe or appropriate for people with diabetes. Some contain sugar, alcohol, or ingredients that can affect blood pressure or interact with diabetes medications.

• Choose sugar-free versions of cough syrups and throat lozenges

• Avoid decongestants like pseudoephedrine if you have high blood pressure

• Read labels carefully for hidden sugars and carbohydrates

• Ask your pharmacist before taking any new over-the-counter product

• Acetaminophen is generally safe for pain and fever — but confirm with your doctor

When to Call Your Doctor or Go to the Emergency Room

Knowing when to seek help is one of the most important parts of managing cold and flu season with diabetes. Don't wait too long — some symptoms signal a serious problem that needs medical attention right away.

• Blood sugar stays above 240 mg/dL for more than 24 hours

• You detect moderate to large ketones in your urine

• You've been vomiting or have had diarrhea for more than 6 hours

• You feel confused, extremely drowsy, or have difficulty breathing

• You're unable to keep any fluids down

Shop Diabetes Supplies at MDS Diabetes

Being prepared before sick days strike makes all the difference. Stock up on glucose meters, test strips, ketone testing supplies, sugar-free sick day essentials, and more at mdsdiabetes.com. Our friendly team is also here to help — give us a call at (877) 861-3571 and let MDS Diabetes help you stay ready for whatever the season brings.