Published: 23 October, 2024 For many of us, summer is a time to soak up the warmer weather and enjoy a little rest and relaxation. But as the temperature rises, there are some extra things to think about for people living with diabetes. In this article, we explore how hot weather can affect diabetes and share practical tips to help you stay cool and well this summer. Stay hydrated by drinking water Not drinking enough fluid can cause high blood glucose levels (BGLs). Additionally, high BGLs can increase the risk of dehydration. This is because high BGLs increase the need to go to the toilet more often. Drink water regularly to stay hydrated, even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you have limits on how much fluid you can drink, always talk to your doctor about what’s best for you. If you use insulin, check your BGLs more often Hot weather can increase your risk of having low blood glucose levels (or a hypo). This is because higher temperatures can affect how quickly your body uses insulin. Therefore, check your blood glucose levels more often, especially when exercising or feeling unwell. And always carry your hypo treatment kit with you. Keep diabetes medication and supplies out of the heat and sun Heat can damage insulin and non-insulin injectables, making them not work as well. Store these in the fridge until you are ready to use them. Once opened, keep them below 25 degrees Celsius. If you go out, carry your insulin in a cooler bag (but don’t place the insulin directly on ice) and don’t leave the cooler bag in the car. If you use an insulin pump, you may need to change your insulin cartridge more often. Store other diabetes medications and supplies in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight. Always follow the storage instructions on your medicine label. Know how heat can affect your diabetes technology Heat can damage your blood glucose meter, insulin pump, continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or flash glucose monitor (Flash GM). If you use technology to manage your diabetes, ask your diabetes health professional how to use it safely when the weather is hot. Plan outdoor activities during cooler times of the day Check the weather forecast and plan outdoor activities during cooler times of the day such as early morning or late afternoon, or on days when the humidity level (amount of moisture in the air) is lower. The more humid it is, the harder it is for your body to cool itself down. Dress for the heat When you go outside, always protect your body from the heat and the sun to reduce your risk of sunburn and overheating. Wear shoes that cover your feet, including the tops of your feet, especially if you have reduced feeling in your feet. This will help protect them from sunburn as well as surface burns from hot sand or footpaths. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing that covers your shoulders and arms, and use a sunscreen or sunblock that is at least SPF50 on exposed skin. And don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, and water bottle. Take extra precautions if you have diabetes-related complications Diabetes-related complications, such as damage to nerves and blood vessels that affect your sweat glands, can impact your body’s ability to sweat and control its temperature. This increases your risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion. Some symptoms of heat exhaustion may feel like the symptoms of low or high BGLs, such as: dizziness headaches irritability confusion sweating fast heartbeat nausea and vomiting. Therefore, check your BGLs often, avoid the heat, and stay hydrated. Heat exhaustion needs urgent treatment, so it doesn’t become heat stroke, which is a medical emergency. Be prepared for hot days Plan ahead and make sure you have enough food, diabetes supplies and medicine to manage your diabetes at home, so you don’t need to go out when it’s hot. Keep your house cool by closing curtains and blinds and using air conditioning or fans. Check you have an up-to-date sick day action plan and emergency kit in case you become unwell. Find more information on our hot weather here. And remember, stay cool to stay well.