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

When cold and flu season hits, most people feel miserable for a few days and move on — but for people with diabetes, getting sick can be a bigger deal. Illness can cause blood sugar levels to spike or dip unpredictably, making careful management more important than ever. The good news is that with the right plan and supplies on hand, you can get through cold and flu season safely and confidently.

Why Illness Affects Blood Sugar Levels

When your body fights off an infection, it releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline that cause blood sugar to rise — even if you are barely eating. This is true even with minor illnesses like a common cold, so it is important not to let your guard down.

• Blood sugar can spike even without eating much

• Stress hormones triggered by illness raise glucose levels

• Vomiting or diarrhea can cause dangerous drops instead

• Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are affected

• Changes can happen quickly, so frequent monitoring matters

The Basics of a Diabetes Sick Day Plan

Having a sick day plan in place before illness strikes is one of the smartest things you can do. Talk to your doctor about specific guidelines, but there are some universal rules that most diabetes care teams recommend following.

• Never stop taking insulin or diabetes medication without doctor approval

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

• Stay hydrated with water or sugar-free fluids

• Know the warning signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

• Keep your doctor's contact number easily accessible

What to Eat and Drink When You Feel Under the Weather

Eating when you feel sick can be a real challenge, but skipping meals with diabetes can cause dangerous blood sugar swings. Focus on easy-to-digest foods and plenty of fluids to keep your body stable.

• Sip water, broth, or sugar-free electrolyte drinks regularly

• Try bland foods like crackers, toast, or plain rice if you can eat

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

• If you cannot eat, contact your doctor for guidance on medication dosing

• Aim for small amounts frequently rather than large meals

Over-the-Counter Medications to Use With Caution

Not all cold and flu remedies are safe or ideal for people with diabetes. Many common products contain sugar, alcohol, or ingredients that can raise blood pressure or interfere with blood sugar control. Always read labels carefully and ask your pharmacist when in doubt.

• Avoid cough syrups and liquid medications with added sugar — look for sugar-free versions

• Decongestants like pseudoephedrine can raise blood sugar and blood pressure

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may affect kidney function

• Antihistamines are generally safer but can cause drowsiness

• When in doubt, ask your pharmacist before purchasing

When to Call Your Doctor Right Away

Most colds are manageable at home, but certain symptoms are a red flag that you need professional help quickly. Do not wait it out if any of these warning signs appear — your health is worth a phone call.

• Blood sugar stays above 240 mg/dL for more than two readings

• You have moderate or large ketones in your urine

• You cannot keep fluids or food down for more than 6 hours

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

• You have had a fever for more than 2 days with no improvement

Supplies to Stock Up on Before You Get Sick

Being prepared means you will not have to drag yourself to a store or wait for shipping when you are already feeling terrible. MDS Diabetes makes it easy to keep all of your essential diabetes supplies on hand year-round so you are always ready.

• Extra blood glucose test strips and a reliable glucose meter

• Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) supplies if you use one

• Ketone test strips for urine or blood ketone meters

• A thermometer to track fever

• Sugar-free cold remedies, electrolyte drinks, and easy snack foods

Shop Diabetes Supplies at MDS Diabetes

Do not wait until you are under the weather to realize you are running low on test strips, CGM supplies, or other essentials. MDS Diabetes has everything you need to stay prepared and protected all cold and flu season long. Visit us at mdsdiabetes.com or call us at (877) 861-3571 — our friendly team is here to help you find the right supplies and keep your diabetes management on track, no matter the season.