Swine Flu and Diabetes

Tips for those who suffer from diabetes.

Courtesy: static.howstuffworks.com

(NEW YORK) - Experts say there is an immediate threat facing the 7.8% of Americans with diabetes. Diabetes sufferers are 3X more likely to contract the Swine Flu then those without.

In a normal year, ten to thirty thousand diabetics-related deaths of are attributed to the seasonal flu. During flu epidemics death among diabetics increases by 5-15%.

Reports indicate that every state has confirmed cases of the Swine Flu and that the vaccine is getting closer to being released. The diabetes coaches at Fit4D, personalized diabetes coaching service, have compiled a list of what those with diabetes can do to help avoid getting the Swine Flu and what they need to do if they are infected by the Swine Flu.

Debby Johnson, RD, LD, CDE Fit4D Nutrition Coach with Fit4D, says now is the time to help spread this information, before the real thrust of the Swine Flu epidemic hits.

The Certified Diabetes Educators and Coaches at Fit4D have compiled information crucial to help avoid getting the swine flu as well as what to do upon illness:

* Get both the seasonal flu vaccine AND the H1N1 vaccine once it becomes available. People with diabetes are considered high risk and will be a priority for receiving the vaccine.

* Be sure to continue following the same rules as those without diabetes, wash your hands regularly, and avoid contact between your hands, eyes, mouth, and nose.

* Be sure to get regular physical check ups, maintain a healthy diet, and regularly engage in physical activity.

If you begin to show signs of illness:

* Contact your doctor immediately, Swine Flu as with all flu can affect your blood sugar levels and your physician will be able figure out how you are specifically affected

* The draining symptoms of having the flu can mask the usual feelings of if your blood sugar is high or low so heightened monitoring is very important.

* Ask about the antiviral drugs available as they can be very effective if treatment is started as soon as symptoms appear.

* Ask your physician about going on a vitamin D supplement. Recent studies have shown that it has potential flu fighting qualities.

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Source: Fit4D.com, an online personalized diabetes coaching service dedicated to providing the highest levels of educational and emotional support for those living with type 1, 2, or pre-diabetes.