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

When you're living with diabetes, a simple cold or the flu can quickly become more complicated than it would for someone without the condition. Illness can send your blood sugar on a rollercoaster — even if you're barely eating. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make all the difference this cold and flu season.

Why Illness Affects Blood Sugar Levels

When your body fights off an infection, it releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones cause your blood sugar to rise, even if you're skipping meals or eating very little.

• Fever and infection trigger stress hormones that raise blood glucose

• You may see higher readings even without eating much

• Vomiting or diarrhea can cause dangerous drops in blood sugar

• Dehydration makes blood sugar harder to manage

• Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are affected during illness

Sick Day Rules Every Diabetes Patient Should Know

Having a sick day plan ready before you get sick is one of the smartest things you can do. Talk to your doctor in advance so you know exactly what steps to take when illness strikes.

• Never stop taking your insulin or diabetes medication without medical guidance

• Check your blood sugar every 2 to 4 hours

• Check for ketones if your blood sugar is above 240 mg/dL

• Stay hydrated with water, broth, or sugar-free drinks

• Keep a sick day kit stocked and ready to go

Foods and Fluids That Help During Illness

Keeping fluids and a small amount of carbohydrates going is important, especially if you feel nauseous. Aim for about 15 grams of carbs every hour if you're struggling to eat full meals.

• Clear broths and soups help with hydration and sodium

• Sugar-free popsicles are easy on the stomach

• Saltine crackers or plain toast provide gentle carbohydrates

• Sports drinks with electrolytes can help replace lost fluids

• Avoid sugary juices or sodas that can spike blood sugar quickly

When to Call Your Doctor Right Away

Some symptoms during illness are warning signs that need immediate medical attention. Don't wait it out — call your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following.

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

• You have 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 trouble breathing

• You are unable to keep any food or fluids down

Stocking Your Sick Day Diabetes Kit

Being prepared before illness hits means you won't have to scramble when you're already feeling awful. MDS Diabetes carries everything you need to build a reliable sick day kit.

• Extra glucose meter and plenty of test strips

• Ketone testing strips for urine or blood

• Fast-acting glucose tablets or gels for lows

• A thermometer to monitor fever

• Your doctor's contact information and sick day action plan

Tips for Preventing Colds and Flu with Diabetes

Prevention is always the best medicine, especially when you have diabetes. A few simple habits can significantly lower your chances of getting sick this season.

• Get your annual flu shot — people with diabetes are a high-priority group

• Ask your doctor about the pneumonia vaccine if you haven't had it

• Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face

• Disinfect high-touch surfaces like phones and door handles

• Eat well, sleep enough, and manage stress to support your immune system

Shop Diabetes Supplies at MDS Diabetes

Being prepared for cold and flu season with diabetes starts with having the right supplies on hand. Visit MDS Diabetes at mdsdiabetes.com to shop glucose meters, test strips, ketone strips, and more — or call us at (877) 861-3571. Our friendly team is here to help you stay safe and confident all season long.