Guidelines for Sick Days
Here are some guidelines for illness and infections that typically cause glucose levels to run high. Because illness causes glucose levels to increase, and because the risk of developing DKA is higher when you are sick, you should check your blood glucose (BG) and monitor for ketones frequently.
The importance of checking your BG and monitoring for ketones frequently when you are ill cannot be over emphasized.
Here are some guidelines:
Check BG every 2 hours
Check urine for ketones each time you urinate
Drink plenty of clear/non-carbohydrate fluids to prevent dehydration
Notify your healthcare provider if you have moderate or high ketones, nausea, vomiting, or if your glucose levels remain high. Keep a few supplies on hand in case you become sick. Recommended items include:
Sugar-free liquids, such as diet drinks, bouillon, and chicken broth, can be used to replace lost fluids and prevent dehydration
Fluids that contain sugar, such as regular soda, popsicles, and Jell-O®, can be used to replace needed calories if you are not able to eat
Extra glucose meter strips
Ketone strips
Medications (sugar-free) for cough, congestion, nausea or vomiting, and fever
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