Flu season comes once a year and for those three long months, we all dread catching the flu! For a diabetic that dread is even worse especially when flu season sneaks up on us a few weeks early before the flu shot has been obtained.
Getting the flu shot is the most logical way to help prevent the flu even though some people do experience a mild version of the flu after the shot. For a person with diabetes this mild flu is certainly a pain in the butt however, it is not nearly as bad as getting the full strain of the flu virus, which really takes its toll on the diabetics, diabetes management.
Aside from the flu shot which every diabetic should get unless told otherwise by his or her doctor you can practice the old “Cleanliness is next to Godliness” routine. That is to wash you hands often, do not touch your mouth or ears with “dirty” hands. Avoid people who have the flu or a cold or who are under the weather. When out in public you can wear a mask, wear gloves or use a sanitizer to clean any shopping cart handles or baskets. Avoid large crowds of people and use your feet to open doors if possible and use you elbow to push a crosswalk sign or anything of that nature.
If you do get the flu visit, your doctor for a prescription of anti-viral medications this will help a lot if you go as soon as the symptoms start it can cut the flu in half! Make sure you drink plenty of water and other fluids recommended by your doctor to prevent dehydration and rest. If you smoke stop this can prevent pneumonia or severe bronchitis from developing which would end you up in the hospital. Last and most importantly get lots of rest and avoid other people just incase they are carrying the flu bug.
Source: http://www.diabeteshealth.com/read/2011/01/11/7010/diabetes-management-in-flu-season/
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