Preparing for Sick Days with Type 2 Diabetes

Gather Key Information and Supplies

Feeling unwell can be overwhelming, especially when managing diabetes. Start by gathering essential information and supplies. Ensure you have your diabetes care team's contact details, including phone numbers and email addresses, at hand. Write these down on a piece of paper or store them in your phone for quick access. Also, have your health insurance information readily available in case you need it for consultations or prescriptions.

Prepare a list of all medications you are currently taking. Include the names of each medication. This will be useful during medical consultations. Additionally, make sure your diabetes supplies, such as glucose monitors, test strips, insulin pens, syringes, or other devices, are within reach. Having everything organized in one place saves stress when you're not feeling well. This preparation will help prevent panic and assist you in acting quickly if necessary.

Create a Symptom and Log Sheet

Documenting symptoms can help you track changes and is valuable for your care team. Use a notebook or digital app to note down each symptom as it arises. Include details such as the time a symptom started, its intensity, and any factors that might have influenced it, like food intake or activity levels. Keep this log updated throughout the day to provide an accurate history.

In addition to symptoms, log your blood glucose readings, but remember to follow your own sick-day plan for how often to check. Record these readings alongside any dietary changes and physical activities. This comprehensive log will make discussions with your care team more productive, as they can see patterns and make informed recommendations. Review your entries before consultations to refresh your memory.

Plan for a Phone Consultation

If you start feeling worse, or if you have concerns about managing your diabetes while sick, reach out to your healthcare provider. Before calling, review your symptom and glucose log so you can share accurate and detailed information. This preparation ensures you convey all the necessary details during your call.

Prepare a list of questions or concerns you might have about your symptoms and diabetes management. Writing these down ensures you address all points during your conversation and helps you remember any specific advice given by your provider. Make a note of any instructions or advice during the call for future reference, which can help you stay on track.

Stay in Touch with a Support Person

Choose a family member or friend to check in on you periodically. Write their contact information in a prominent place, and let them know about your current health situation and any specific instructions you might have for them. This support person can also help you by picking up supplies or medications if necessary, which can be a significant relief.

Share your symptom and diabetes log with them, so they are informed about your condition. This can be helpful if you require assistance in communicating with your healthcare provider or need someone to advocate on your behalf. Keeping them informed ensures that someone else understands your needs and can help you manage your situation effectively.

Have Important Contacts Ready

• Write down your healthcare provider’s contact details and keep them easily accessible.
• Include the number for your local pharmacy as you may need to refill medications.
• Have the contact information for a local urgent care facility or hospital, should you need immediate help.

Having these contacts organized and ready to use can save valuable time and reduce stress, especially when you are not feeling your best. It prevents scrambling for information when it's urgently needed.

Prepare for Possible Pharmacy Visits

Double-check your medication supply, ensuring you have enough to last through your illness. If you're running low on essential medications, contact your pharmacy to request refills. To make this process smoother, provide the pharmacy with your insurance details and a list of all your medications. Keep a written list to avoid any mix-ups.

If feasible, inquire whether the pharmacy offers delivery services. This might be particularly useful if you are unable to leave your home. Planning these logistics in advance can help avoid emergencies and ensure you have uninterrupted access to your necessary medications. Confirm delivery times to ensure your medications do not run out.

Ask Your Care Team About Sick-Day Eating and Drinking

While this site can't guide you on specific dietary or fluid intake instructions when you're sick, your sick-day plan usually includes details on what adjustments to make regarding food and hydration. Don't hesitate to reach out to your care team with questions about nutrition or fluid management. They can provide personalized advice based on your current symptoms and diabetes management needs.

If you're unsure about any aspect of your sick-day plan, discuss it with your healthcare provider at your earliest convenience to avoid confusion when you're feeling unwell. Clarifying these details before you need them will make it easier to follow the plan correctly.

Review and Store Your Records

Once the sick day has passed, review your symptom and glucose logs. Reflect on what went well and areas for potential improvement in managing your diabetes during an illness. File these records in a safe place for future reference when needed, ensuring you can find them easily.

Share these records with your healthcare provider during your next appointment. They can help you refine your sick-day plan based on the experiences documented. This review can lead to better preparation for future sick days, ensuring that you're always ready to handle them effectively. Keeping accurate records allows for better adjustments and understanding of your health patterns.