If you have diabetes, planning is the best way to stay healthy during hurricane season and any emergency.
It is essential to know what to do during an emergency in case supplies and medications may be challenging to obtain and store. Here are some recommendations for people with diabetes who use insulin.
Before the emergency
- Store in a sealable plastic bag:
- Copies of your recipes
- Dosage instructions and schedules of your medications
- Basal rates, insulin-to-carbohydrate ratio, insulin sensitivity factor, target blood sugar, and insulin pump correction factors
- Contact information for your doctor and pharmacy
- Model name and serial number of insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor
- Copy of your health plan card and photo ID
- Make sure you have insulin available for at least two weeks, as well as the necessary supplies to check your blood sugar levels, manage if your blood sugar drops, among others.
- Ask your primary or personal physician what insulin alternatives you can use if your current insulin is unavailable.
- If you use an insulin pump, you should check the instructions to see what insulins will work and have extra batteries.
during the emergency
- Try to keep the insulin as cold as possible, but make sure not to freeze it.
- Keep insulin away from direct heat and direct sunlight. Insulin loses some effectiveness when exposed to extreme temperatures.
- You can use the insulin in open or unopened bottles and has been stored at room temperature (59-86°F) for up to 4 weeks.
- If, during the emergency, you have to use the insulin that has been exposed to more than 86 °F, you need to monitor your blood sugar level regularly.
- If an insulin change is necessary, be sure to monitor your blood sugar level closely and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Insulin is a pump’s infusion set (such as the reservoir, tubing, and catheters) to be discarded after 48 hours.
after the emergency
- When you can get your regular insulin and store it properly, throw away any insulin that has been at room temperature or exposed to extreme temperatures.
- Contact your doctor to continue your treatment.
Take care of your emotional health during and after the emergency
The stress and strong emotions that emergencies cause can worsen your health conditions. Among the recommendations offered by the experts, the following stand out:
- Take care of your body – Even during an emergency, try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals. Avoid using alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs to manage stress and worry.
- Stay in touch with others – Work on maintaining healthy relationships with family and friends, share your concerns, and try to establish a robust support system that works in an emergency.
- Take breaks: Take time to relax and remember that strong emotions will pass. Try taking a few deep breaths and doing some activities you usually enjoy.
- Stay informed but avoid overexposure – Stay on top of the news for up-to-date information from authorities. Be aware that rumors may circulate during a crisis, especially on social media. Always check where the data comes from and use reliable sources, such as local government authorities. But avoid overexposing yourself to the news so as not to distress yourself.
- Seek help when necessary: If, after the emergency, you continue with feelings of anxiety and anguish, seek professional help.
