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What to do when you're ill
What should you do if you are ill?
Illness can make you particularly at risk of developing DKA. Here are some practical suggestions for you to follow if you are unwell.
- Make a plan
Have a plan of what you will do when you are ill BEFORE it happens. Your healthcare professional will be able to help you, but even with a great plan you may still need their help, so keep their phone number handy. - Keep taking your diabetes treatment
It is ESSENTIAL that you keep taking your insulin and/or tablets. Missing your diabetes treatment can trigger the process which leads to ketosis. - Keep drinking
It is very important not to become dehydrated when you are ill, particularly if you are being sick or have diarrhoea. Take small quantities of fluids such as sugar-free drinks, tea or clear soup every 15-30 minutes.
Keep eating too
You must continue to eat when you are ill. Try taking normal meals if you can but if you don't feel like eating try small meals and eat more frequently.
Soft foods and liquids are often the easiest to eat when you fell unwell. Foods you could try include:
- A bowl of soup
- A glass of fruit juice
- A small bowl of ice cream
- A glass of milk or mug of milky drink
- A small carton of ordinary fruit youghurt
- A small bowl of jelly
During the day, try to eat one portion of these foods each hour.
If you are sick and can't keep anything down take regular sips of sugary drinks such as Lucozade® or ordinary lemonade.
- Measure your blood glucose regularly
