Imagine this: your diabetic child has just gotten up, had a blood test, received the morning's insulin shot and eaten breakfast. Then, without warning, the child throws up breakfast. She also says that she felt bad when she woke up. What do you do?
Managing sick days is not as hard as it might seem. Here are a few guidelines:
NEVER skip an insulin shot, even if your child complains of not feeling well. Illness often causes an increased need for insulin.
Check your child's blood sugar often -- at least every four hours. Every one or two is warranted if the blood sugar is changing.
Check for blood ketones. Checking for urine ketones is not as good and will not give you the same insight into your child's health.
Small amounts of grape juice or regular cola can help keep your child's blood sugar from dropping too low, even if they're reluctant to eat.
Call your doctor if your child can't keep any food or liquid down. You might need to take your child to the hospital or doctor's office for a glucose I.V.
For More Information
Hyperglycemia discusses guidelines for managing high blood sugar
Hypoglycemia discusses guidelines for managing low blood sugar
Last Updated: Tuesday December 08, 2009 11:14:17
This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional.
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