Approximately 422 million people have diabetes worldwide, meaning their bodies fail to make enough insulin or are unable to use the insulin they make to convert foods into energy. 

Diabetes management has its own challenges even in regular life, and they magnify much more during emergencies. Natural disasters, power outages, or sudden medical crises- all these emergencies can be potentially life-threatening, especially for people with a chronic medical ailment like diabetes. You can experience diabetic symptoms anytime, and they can quickly become severe, causing you to go into shock, faint, or lead to dangerous health issues.

That’s why being prepared in advance is the best thing you can do to manage diabetes and maintain your overall health in emergencies. This guide will provide you with some tips and supplies you must have to manage diabetes during emergencies.

Understanding the Challenges of Diabetes Management in Emergencies

So, what challenges can a diabetic person face during an emergency- be it a natural disaster or power outage? In an emergency, the regular access to food, medical supplies, fluids, and medication you rely on might be limited. Moreover, increased stress, lack of proper nutrition, and difficulty accessing healthcare can quickly destabilise your blood sugar levels. You might not be able to engage much in any physical activity, and your usual diabetes management routine could be disrupted.

How can you deal with all these challenges? All you need to do is make the necessary preparations beforehand. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, remember that maintaining stable blood sugar levels during an emergency is key to preserving your overall health. Knowing the diabetes control tips and having the right supplies can help you navigate through emergencies confidently.

Create an Emergency Diabetes Plan

You can effectively manage your diabetes by outlining a plan for emergencies. It should include:

• Contact Information for Your Healthcare Provider: Make sure you have your doctor’s contact numbers on your device or write it down in your diary so you can quickly reach him if needed. 
• Prescriptions and Dosages: Keep copies of your prescriptions, including insulin, oral diabetes medications, and any other medicines you might need. In addition, you should not down the current dosages of each drug and the times when you need to take them. 
• Insulin Pump Details: You should know the make, model, and serial number of the insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor you use. In addition, it’s better to not down your blood sugar target, basal rates, insulin sensitivity factor, insulin-to-carbohydrate ratio, and correction factors.
• Emergency Contacts: Identify family members, friends, or caregivers who are aware of your diabetes management plan and, thus, can assist you in an emergency.
• Hospital and Pharmacy Locations: You should be aware of the locations of local hospitals or pharmacies that might be open during emergencies.

Essential Diabetes Supplies for Emergencies

Here is the list of essential supplies that your diabetes emergency kit should contain:

• Blood glucose meter and Ketone test strips
• Oral diabetes medications and all other prescribed medicines
• Insulin pens and syringes for every injection
• Insulin pump supplies, such as extra pump sets or insertion devices
• Lancets and lancing device
• Glucose tablets or gels
• Alcohol wipes
• Glucagon kits
• Water supply that can last for at least three days.
• Non-perishable snacks 
• First-aid supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and ointment in case of cuts or wounds, as diabetes can slow healing. 
• Extra batteries and chargers for your insulin pump and blood sugar meter.
• An empty container to safely carry needles, lancets, and syringes.

What are the Best Foods to Control Diabetes During Emergencies?

Access to fresh food might be limited in an emergency, so you should pack non-perishable, diabetes-friendly foods to stabilise your blood sugar levels. The following table outlines some of the best foods for control diabetes, and they have relatively long shelf lives:

Canned Beans and Lentils | Beans and lentils are rich in protein and fibre, making them great options for controlling blood sugar. Pack low-sodium, canned versions as they don’t require refrigeration.
Nuts and Seeds | Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds can help slow the absorption of sugar, keeping your blood glucose levels more stable.
Tuna or Salmon Packets
| Canned or pouched tuna and salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids and, hence, can support your heart health.
Dried or Dehydrated Vegetables
| Freeze-dried or dehydrated vegetables, like kale or broccoli chips, are lightweight and provide essential nutrients without spiking blood sugar.
Rice Cakes or Whole Grain Crackers | Whole grain crackers or brown rice cakes are better alternatives to refined carbohydrate snacks. Their high fibre content is good for managing your blood sugar levels.
Low-Sugar Granola Bars | Look for low-sugar granola or protein bars for a quick energy boost while keeping your blood sugar in check.
Instant Oatmeal | Choose unsweetened, high in fibre whole grain instant oatmeal packs to regulate your blood sugar levels. 

What to Do if You Experience Hypoglycemia or Hyperglycemia During Emergencies?

This section will guide you on what you should do if you or your loved one experience hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia in an emergency: 

• Treating Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

If you experience symptoms like shakiness, confusion, and sweating or your blood sugar drops below 70 mg/dL, you need to raise your blood sugar level quickly. You can use the 15-15 rule, i.e., consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates (like fast-acting glucose tablets or a sugary drink), wait 15 minutes, and then recheck your blood sugar. Repeat the process if necessary until your blood sugar is more than 100 mg/dl.

• Managing Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar)

Hyperglycemia can occur during emergencies because of stress, dehydration, or missed medication. You might experience symptoms like increased thirst, fatigue, frequent urination, and headaches. In such a case, drink plenty of water and, if possible, take your prescribed medication to lower your blood sugar levels. However, despite your efforts to control your blood sugar level, if it remains high, seek medical attention. If you are on insulin, do not stop insulin during an emergency. Also if your glucometer is showing blood sugar > 250 mg\dl, then check urine for ketones & seek medical advice urgently.

All-in-All

By having a diabetes management plan and packing a diabetes kit, you will be prepared to handle an emergency and focus on staying healthy and safe. It’s a good idea to learn some diabetes control tips from Medanta endocrinology diabetology specialists in advance for emergencies.