The COVID-19 pandemic, known for its respiratory impact, has prompted extensive investigation into its broader physiological consequences. The virus affects various bodily systems beyond the lungs. This has led to increasing interest in understanding how COVID-19 interacts with blood sugar levels, a significant concern for many.
The Link Between COVID-19 and Blood Sugar
COVID-19 can elevate blood sugar levels, affecting individuals with or without a prior diabetes diagnosis. This phenomenon, known as hyperglycemia, is observed across different severities of COVID-19. Some patients experience transient high blood sugar during acute infection, while others show more persistent changes.
Hyperglycemia is common in hospitalized COVID-19 patients and is associated with worse outcomes. Even in individuals without a diabetes diagnosis before admission, COVID-19 can induce increased blood glucose. This suggests a direct connection between the viral infection and the body’s glucose regulation.
Why Blood Sugar May Rise During COVID-19
Several mechanisms contribute to rising blood sugar during COVID-19. The body’s inflammatory response can lead to insulin resistance, where cells do not respond effectively to insulin. Even if the pancreas produces insulin, glucose struggles to enter cells, causing blood sugar levels to remain high.
The illness also triggers an increase in stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which naturally raise blood sugar. These hormones prepare the body for “fight or flight,” making more glucose available for energy. The SARS-CoV-2 virus may also directly affect pancreatic beta cells, which produce insulin, potentially impairing their function and leading to reduced insulin secretion.
Certain medications for severe COVID-19, particularly corticosteroids like dexamethasone, also significantly elevate blood sugar. Corticosteroids increase glucose production in the liver and reduce glucose uptake by muscles and fat tissue, complicating blood sugar management. This effect is particularly pronounced in patients with pre-existing diabetes.
Managing Blood Sugar During and After COVID-19
Managing blood sugar during and after COVID-19 involves proactive steps and close collaboration with healthcare providers. Regular monitoring is important, especially for individuals with existing diabetes or risk factors, to track fluctuations and guide adjustments.
Maintaining hydration and a balanced diet supports metabolic health and helps stabilize blood sugar. Those on diabetes medications should consult a healthcare provider for necessary adjustments. Doses of insulin or other medications may need alteration to account for the body’s response to infection and prescribed treatments.
Gradual return to physical activity, as advised by a doctor, aids blood sugar control during recovery. Report any new or worsening blood sugar symptoms to a healthcare provider promptly. Timely intervention prevents complications and improves recovery outcomes.
Potential for New-Onset Diabetes
A concern emerging from the pandemic is COVID-19’s potential to trigger new diabetes cases in individuals with no prior diagnosis. Observational data indicates an increased incidence of new-onset diabetes following COVID-19. Studies show the overall prevalence of new-onset diabetes post-COVID-19 was approximately 1.37%, with higher prevalence for type 2 diabetes.
Mechanisms contributing to this outcome may include direct viral damage to pancreatic beta cells and prolonged inflammation. While exact causes are still being understood, research suggests the risk of diabetes increased over time, with highest rates observed between 3 to 12 months post-infection. This highlights the importance of long-term follow-up and monitoring blood sugar for individuals recovering from COVID-19, especially if they experienced hyperglycemia during illness.