Type 2 Diabetes

Preparing for Special Situations

There are times when you may need to vary from your regular routine. Your healthcare team can help you work out a plan to prepare for special situations.

When You're Sick

When you're sick, even with a cold, your blood sugar level may rise. Ask your healthcare team to help you create a sick-day plan. Here are some guidelines:

• Don't stop taking your diabetes medication unless your healthcare provider tells you to.
• Don't take other medications, such as cold or flu remedies, without checking with your healthcare provider first.
• Stick to your meal plan. If you can't eat, try fruit juice, regular gelatin, or frozen juice bars as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Drink at least 1 glass of liquid every hour. If you're eating, these liquids should be sugar-free.
• Check your blood sugar as often as directed by your healthcare provider.

When You Travel

• Carry a doctor's letter stating which supplies you need to carry.
• Keep your diabetes supplies with you in their original prescription-labeled boxes.
• Try to stick to your meal and exercise plans as much as you can.
• On train, bus, or airplane trips, take a walk in the aisle every 2 hours.
• Drink plenty of water and carry extra snacks.
• If you're traveling across more than two time zones, ask your healthcare provider how to adjust your medication or insulin schedule.