Sun exposure and high temperatures introduce specific risks that complicate blood glucose management and threaten the integrity of medical supplies. These challenges involve the body’s altered response to heat, the vulnerability of insulin and devices, and an increased susceptibility to skin issues and infection. Understanding these risks allows for proactive strategies to safely enjoy outdoor activity. By implementing targeted safety measures, people with diabetes can effectively navigate warmer weather without compromising their health.
Physiological Risks of Heat Exposure
High temperatures affect the body’s ability to regulate blood glucose levels through two opposing mechanisms. Heat exposure causes blood vessels near the skin’s surface to dilate, a natural process intended to cool the body. This increased blood flow accelerates the rate at which injected or infused insulin is absorbed from the subcutaneous tissue. This faster absorption can lead to unexpected and rapid drops in blood sugar, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
Conversely, heat exposure increases the risk of dehydration, which can lead to high blood glucose levels, or hyperglycemia. When the body loses fluid through sweat, the volume of water in the bloodstream decreases, causing glucose to become more concentrated. Even mild dehydration can cause significant blood sugar spikes. High blood glucose itself exacerbates dehydration, as the kidneys attempt to flush out the excess sugar via increased urination, creating a negative feedback loop.
Protecting Diabetes Technology and Supplies
Diabetes management relies on medications and devices sensitive to temperature fluctuations, which can fail or lose effectiveness when exposed to heat. Insulin is particularly vulnerable to degradation. Exposure to temperatures above 86°F (30°C) can cause insulin to lose its potency, rendering it less effective at lowering blood glucose. Unopened insulin must be refrigerated between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C), and opened supplies should be kept below 79°F (26°C) whenever possible.
High temperatures can also compromise the function of monitoring and delivery equipment. Continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensors and insulin pumps can be damaged by direct sunlight or excessive heat, potentially leading to inaccurate readings or device malfunction. Blood glucose test strips are also temperature-sensitive; if stored outside their recommended range, they may produce unreliable results. Leaving any diabetes supplies in a hot car or in direct sun, even for a short period, can ruin their integrity.
Managing Increased Risk of Skin Damage and Infection
Sun exposure presents dermatological challenges for individuals with diabetes, primarily due to increased photosensitivity and poor wound healing. Certain diabetes medications, such as sulfonylureas, can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. This photosensitivity makes the skin more susceptible to sunburn, rashes, and other adverse reactions.
A sunburn is a burn injury that triggers an inflammatory response in the body. This inflammatory stress causes the release of hormones like cortisol, which temporarily increases insulin resistance. This stress response can lead to a significant spike in blood glucose levels that may persist for days. Diabetes complications such as peripheral neuropathy can mask injuries, including burns to the feet from hot pavement or sand, leading to unnoticed wounds. Compromised circulation and immune function further delay the healing of skin injuries, increasing the risk of infection.
Actionable Safety Measures for Outdoor Activity
To mitigate the risks of sun exposure, implement the following safety measures:
- Plan outdoor activities to avoid peak solar hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Hydrate frequently throughout the day to prevent the concentration of blood glucose due to fluid loss.
- Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen and seek shade to prevent sunburn and the resulting blood glucose spike.
- Protect all diabetes technology and supplies by storing them in insulated cooling pouches, never leaving them in a parked vehicle, and keeping them out of direct sunlight.
- Increase the frequency of blood glucose checks, testing before, during, and after extended periods in the heat or physical activity.
- Carry emergency supplies, including a rapid source of glucose like tablets or gel, and ensure you have a working phone.
- For foot safety, always wear protective, closed-toe shoes to prevent burns from hot surfaces and to shield against unnoticed injuries.