Extreme Heat Danger: Diabetics at Higher Risk of Heatstroke Than Others, Plus 4 Urgent Coping Tips

Warning diabetic patients to prepare for extreme heat, as they face a higher risk of heatstroke than the general population due to slower heat dissipation and unstable blood sugar, along with tips on how to store insulin properly to avoid degradation.

Thailand is entering the hottest period of the year, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., when UV radiation and temperatures peak. Zuellig Pharma has issued a warning to vulnerable groups, particularly diabetic patients, who are at risk of heatstroke and severe blood sugar fluctuations that can be life-threatening.

Why are diabetic patients more susceptible to heatstroke than others?

Medical data indicates that both type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients are more sensitive to heat than normal individuals because their bodies' heat dissipation efficiency is reduced, mainly due to:

• Circulatory system: blood circulation under the skin is slower than normal.
• Sweat system: the body produces less sweat when exposed to extreme heat.

Four important things diabetic patients need to know to combat the summer heat.

For sustainable health care or a good healthspan, patients and their close ones should understand these four risk factors.

1. Maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Controlling blood sugar within the proper range and regularly doing aerobic exercise helps the body better cope with changing weather conditions.

2. Hot weather increases the risk of hospitalization.

Research shows that extreme heat is linked to emergency room visits by diabetic patients, especially those aged 65 and older, who require special attention.

3. Beware of "insulin degradation."

Insulin is highly sensitive to heat; if exposed to temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius for a prolonged time, its effectiveness decreases, impairing blood sugar control. If insulin has been stored in very hot conditions, it should be replaced promptly with properly stored medication.

4. High blood sugar causes dehydration.

When blood sugar is high, the body tries to expel it via urine, leading to increased fluid loss and easy dehydration. Patients should watch for abnormal signs such as dizziness, muscle aches, or lack of sweating, which are dangerous symptoms of heatstroke.

Summary of self-care: drink water, avoid sun, store medication properly.

If outdoor activities are necessary, avoid peak sun hours, drink enough clean water, and avoid spicy foods that cause thirst. Most importantly, store medications correctly to prevent complications that could be more serious than expected.