Heat Stroke, Heat Exhaustion, and Diabetes: What You Need to Know This Summer
Summer brings plenty of opportunities to get outside, but rising temperatures can create health risks for everyone. For people living with diabetes, hot weather can be especially challenging because it can affect blood sugar levels, increase the risk of dehydration, and even impact how diabetes medications and devices work.
Understanding the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke can help you recognize warning signs early and stay safe all season long. Let’s take a look.
Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses too much water and salt through sweating. It is serious, but it can often be treated if caught early.
Common signs of heat exhaustion include:
- Heavy sweating
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue or weakness
- Muscle cramps
Heat stroke is much more serious and is considered a medical emergency. It happens when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, causing it to rise dangerously high.
Warning signs of heat stroke include:
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness
- Hot, red skin
- Rapid pulse
- Body temperature above 103°F
If you suspect that someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately.
Why Diabetes Can Increase the Risk
Hot weather affects everyone, but people with diabetes may face additional challenges.
High blood sugar can cause the body to lose more fluids through increased urination, making dehydration more likely. In turn, dehydration can make blood sugar levels rise even higher. Some people living with diabetes may also have nerve damage that affects their ability to sweat, making it harder for the body to naturally cool itself. Heat can also affect insulin, insulin pumps, medication, and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). Leaving supplies in a hot car or direct sunlight can impact how well they work.
How Heat Can Affect Blood Sugar
Many people assume heat only causes high blood sugar, but it can actually cause both highs and lows. Blood sugar may rise because of dehydration. At the same time, increased blood flow during hot weather can cause insulin to be absorbed more quickly, potentially leading to lower blood sugar levels. This is one reason it is important to monitor blood sugar more frequently during periods of extreme heat.
Tips for Staying Safe
A little planning can help prevent heat-related illness and keep diabetes management on track. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Stay Hydrated. Water is your best defense against dehydration. Try to drink regularly throughout the day, especially if you are spending time outdoors.
- Protect Your Supplies. Keep insulin, medications, CGMs, and pumps out of direct sunlight and never leave them in a hot vehicle.
- Check Blood Sugar More Often. Heat can affect blood sugar in unexpected ways. Extra monitoring can help you catch changes before they become a problem.
- Take Breaks from the Heat. When possible, spend time in air-conditioned spaces or shaded areas, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- Know the Warning Signs. Seek medical attention if you or a loved one experiences confusion, severe dizziness, fainting, the inability to keep fluids down, or symptoms of heat stroke.
Enjoy Summer Safely
Having diabetes does not mean you have to avoid summer fun. By staying hydrated, protecting your supplies, and recognizing the signs of heat-related illness, you can enjoy the season while keeping your health and safety a top priority.
Author: Mary Houle, MSN, RN, BC-ADM, CDCES
This site is for educational purposes only. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health.
