Diabetes is a condition that affects the way your body absorbs and uses sugar. People with diabetes have higher-than-normal blood glucose levels, which can lead to serious health problems if not appropriately managed. Diabetes doesn’t just affect adults—it can also affect children and teens. If you’re a parent whose child has been diagnosed with diabetes or has type 1 or type 2 diabetes, you’ll want to know how to manage the condition at school. Here are some tips:
Insulin & Blood Glucose Monitoring
When it comes to the management of diabetes, there are several tools available that can help you keep your blood glucose levels in check. For example, an insulin pump for diabetes is a popular choice for people with Type 1 diabetes, but they do require some maintenance and care. Insulin pens can also be useful for those who find them more convenient than vials. According to Tandem Diabetes experts, “Creating new possibilities for people living with diabetes.”
Glucose monitoring devices are important for people with Type 1 diabetes to use on a regular basis; these include glucometers and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). Glucometers measure blood sugar levels using a small drop of blood pricked from your finger, while CGMs continuously monitor glucose levels through sensors that attach to the skin over time periods ranging from 12 hours up to seven days at a time.
Blood Sugar & Medications
You should check your blood sugar at least once a day. You can use a blood glucose meter or test strips to measure your blood sugar levels. When you take this measurement, also write down how much insulin you took that day and when.
Your doctor may ask for more frequent readings, especially if your diabetes is not well controlled. For example, if you have type 1 diabetes, it’s important to take insulin exactly as prescribed and eat meals at the time of day recommended by your doctor or nutritionist.
Food, Exercise & Hydration
There are many ways to manage diabetes at school. Make sure you have a well-stocked emergency kit with medications and supplies in case of an emergency. Your parents or guardians will be able to help you with this.
It’s important that you eat breakfast, lunch, and/or a snack before meals if your blood sugar gets too low. You should also exercise regularly—try walking around the gym or playing intramural sports with your friends after school! Finally, make sure that you drink plenty of water throughout the day because staying hydrated helps prevent dehydration which can make it harder for your body to control its blood sugar levels.
Familial Support
Your family is the best support system you can have! People who have diabetes are more successful with their treatment plan when they have a support network of people who can help them monitor blood sugar levels, inject insulin and meals, and provide encouragement during exercise routines.
The more people involved in managing your health care, the better chance you have of maintaining healthy habits throughout your life as well as reaching your goals for physical activity and weight loss.