People with diabetes often "feel the heat" more than those without the disease. This is because having diabetic problems, such heart disease or nerve damage, can reduce how well the body can cool off, which can result in heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Diabetes also increases the chance of dehydration. High blood sugar levels brought on by inadequate water can increase urine, which in turn dehydrates the body. Additionally, a diabetic patient's risk of dehydration may be increased by various medications they use, like:

• Laxatives

• SGLT-2 inhibitors used to assist control blood sugar levels, such as empagliflozin (marketed under the name Jardiance), dapagliflozin (Farxiga), and canagliflozin (Invokana).

• Diuretics (water tablets), such as Lasix, which are used to treat kidney diseases, high blood pressure, and heart failure.

High temperatures may interfere with the way the body utilizes insulin, raising blood sugar levels. Extreme temperatures, such as cold ones, can also reduce the effectiveness of the insulin, which can result in high blood sugar levels. This is why it's never a good idea to store insulin in a hot car or in the sun.


Here are some suggestions for storing diabetes medications, supplies, and equipment in high temperatures:

  • Avoid keeping insulin or other diabetic medications in a hot car or in the sun. Check the package material for information on how insulin and other medications may be impacted by hot temperatures.
  • Insulin and other medications should be kept in a refrigerator when traveling. Avoid putting insulin directly on ice or a gel pack.
  • Your insulin pump, blood sugar monitor, and other diabetic devices are all susceptible to harm from heat. Avoid leaving them in hot vehicles, around swimming pools, in the sun, or on beaches. The same is true for tools like test strips.


10 Ways to Remain Cool When the Heat Rises


Diabetes Management in Extreme Heat

Even though it doesn't feel extremely hot outside, the combination of heat and humidity (moisture in the air) may be deadly, therefore it's crucial to take the heat and humidity seriously if you have diabetes or any other chronic health concerns. Sweat eliminates heat from your body and cools you as it evaporates (dries) on your skin. High humidity makes it more difficult to remain cool since perspiration doesn't drain as quickly.

  1. --It's a good idea to check the heat index (a measurement that combines temperature and humidity) whether you're exercising or just lounging about. When it gets to 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the shade with 40% humidity or more, take precautions to remain cool (see sidebar).  Important information: When the temperature rises, stay in the shade since the heat index can be up to 15°F higher in direct sunshine.
  2. --Exercise is essential for treating diabetes, but avoid exercising outside in the heat of the day or when the heat index is high. Go outside when it's cooler, such as early in the morning or late at night, or visit a gym or shopping center with air conditioning to get some exercise.
  3. --Drink plenty of water, even if you're not thirsty, to avoid being dehydrated.
  4. --Avoid alcohol and caffeine-containing beverages such as coffee and energy or sports drinks. They can cause dehydration and raise blood sugar levels.
  5. --Check your blood sugar levels before, during, and after physical activity. You may need to adjust your insulin dosage. Consult your doctor if you need assistance modifying your dosage.
  6. --Dress comfortably in light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.
  7. When going outside, use sunscreen and a hat. Sunburn can cause an increase in blood sugar levels.
  8. --Even if you're at the beach or the pool, don't go barefoot.
  9. --To remain cool, turn on your air conditioner or go to an air-conditioned building or mall. A room fan will not keep you cool in extreme heat.
  10. --This may seem obvious, but staying out of the sun is the key to fighting the heat. The heat index can rise by up to 13.5 degrees Fahrenheit when exposed to direct sunshine. When relative humidity and air temperature are combined, the heat index is what the temperature feels like to the human body. If you must be outside, try to locate a shaded place whenever feasible. Even while you're inside, keep your blinds or drapes closed to keep the sun out.