COVID-19 & Diabetes Patients
If you have diabetes, you may have additional concerns about contracting and fighting off the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Rightly so, as it has been said that immunocompromised individuals may have a harder time managing and ridding of symptoms of the virus.
Read on to learn what you need to know about COVID-19 and diabetes.
Increased Risks and Severe Symptoms
Having diabetes doesn’t mean you’re more likely to catch the virus, but your symptoms may be more severe if you do. According to the American Diabetes Association, the data is inconclusive and does not prove one way or another regarding whether people with diabetes are more likely to contract coronavirus.
However, if those with diabetes do catch COVID-19, they have a higher risk of increased complications. People with additional health conditions along with diabetes (such as diabetes plus heart disease) may have a higher risk of severe complications due to COVID-19.
The reason why people with diabetes suffer from more severe symptoms after catching any virus (not just coronavirus) is that having multiple ailments with a weakened immune system makes it more challenging for your body to get rid of infections.
Increased Risk of Diabetic Ketoacidosis
While people with diabetes may not be at an increased risk of catching COVID-19, diabetics are more likely to face diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) if they contract the virus. This condition is most commonly experienced by those with type 1 diabetes.
DKA occurs when your body doesn’t have enough insulin to allow blood sugar into your cells for use as energy. Common symptoms include:
- Being very thirsty.
- Urinating a lot more than usual.
- Fast, deep breathing.
- Dry skin and mouth.
- Flushed face.
- Fruity-smelling breath.
- Headache.
- Muscle stiffness or aches.
- Being very tired.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Stomach pain.
Those who suffer from DKA have a difficult time managing fluid intake and electrolyte levels, which are critical for managing sepsis. Sepsis and septic shock are among the most severe symptoms those with diabetes and COVID-19 have endured.
Seeking Treatment at Better Faster Urgent Care
If you suffer from diabetes, it’s important to take the proper precautions to ensure you decrease your risk of contracting COVID-19 including social distancing, handwashing, and getting vaccinated. However, if you do contract COVID-19 or feel you have been exposed, you should be tested and treated immediately. Be sure to have the following information available:
- Glucose reading.
- Ketone reading.
- Fluid consumption.
- Your symptoms (for example: are you nauseated? Just a stuffy nose?)
Click here to read more about our testing options, stop in for a walk-in appointment, or call Better Faster Urgent Care today at (817) 774-9704 to speak with a member of our team.
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