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The Effects of Acute Illnesses on Type 2 Diabetes

For the diabetic person an acute illness can be life threatening. Common ailments such as the flu, common cold and infection, are acute illnesses. Acute illnesses normally appear suddenly and run a short course in the average person. However, in the diabetic, acute illnesses affect blood-sugar levels and an already weakened immune system and can lead to more serious conditions.

  1. Acute Complication of Type 2 Diabetes

    • The effects of acute illness on diabetes are extremely elevated blood sugar levels or abnormally low blood sugar levels. Elevated blood sugar levels are caused by a lack of insulin or a deficiency of insulin and low blood sugar levels are a caused by too much insulin and/or medications that lower glucose levels. People with diabetes have a weaker immune system and are at greater risk when acute illnesses arise. Acute illnesses such as influenza, a urinary tract infection or a cold can all cause complications in blood sugar levels and lead to more-serious, even life-threatening illnesses such as hyperosmolar syndrome and diabetic ketoacidosis.

    Hyperosmolar Syndrome

    • Hyperosmolar syndrome can arise as a result of an infection such as pneumonia. Diabetic hyperosmolar syndrome is more common in older adult patients with Type 2 diabetes, especially in patients who do not monitor their blood-sugar levels or who do not know they have diabetes. Hyperosmolar syndrome can cause life-threatening dehydration. If a type 2 diabetic is showing symptoms such as high blood sugar levels, dry mouth, excessive thirst, warm skin with no sweating, sleepiness, vision loss and/or weakness on one side of the body, he should schedule an appointment with his physician immediately.

      Hyperosmolar syndrome is diagnosed when a patient's blood sugar level is 600mg/dL or higher. The doctor may measure the amount of nitrogen or creatinine in the patient's blood to determine how well his kidneys are working. The red blood cells and fluid, as well as the amount of potassium in the patient's blood may also be measured through a test known as hematocrit.

    Diabetic Ketoacidosis

    • Diabetic ketoacidosis is caused by inadequate insulin. With an infection, a loss of insulin occurs. Carbohydrates shift the patient's body from its normal metabolism rate to a fasting state, using fat for fuel. Severe dehydration is often experienced with diabetic ketoascidosis and fluid therapy is often needed, along with antibiotics. Symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis are shortness of breath, frequent urination, general ill appearance, vomiting, excessive thirst, loss of appetite and confusion.

    Effects of Influenza

    • Persons with diabetes are more susceptible to the flu and nearly three times more likely to die with flu or pneumonia-related complications. For a diabetic with the flu, danger occurs if her blood-glucose level falls lower than 60mg/dL or rises to over 300mg/dL. If she is too sick to keep food down for more than six hours, if she has trouble breathing or severe diarrhea, if she has lost five pounds or more and/or has a temperature of101 degrees or higher, she needs medical intervention. Also, confusion and excessive sleepiness should prompt an immediate visit to her physician or the emergency room. Diabetics should get annual flu shots, with the best time being in October and November before the flu season begins.

    Preventing Acute Illnesses

    • Control and maintain blood glucose levels within the target range. Eat a balanced diet of roughly 1600 calories a day (unless otherwise directed by your physician) and exercise regularly. Schedule regular doctor visits, eye exams, and appointments with your podiatrist.

      Get annual flu shots. Keep blood pressure under control. Keep weight under control. Wash your hands frequently, especially after being in public places.

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