Diabetes Awareness this Summer

Diabetes Awareness this Summer

Health professionals in Southport and Formby are encouraging people with diabetes to make sure they travel safely this summer by managing their medication carefully.

The summer months are the most popular time for families and friends to get away, whether it is a holiday abroad or somewhere closer to home. The Diabetes Education Team at Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust is encouraging members of the public living with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes who are planning a trip to ensure they have researched the area they are visiting and can plan accordingly for their medication needs.

Laura Chatt from the Diabetes Education Team at Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust said:

“At this time of year, it’s so important to make sure members of the public with diabetes know the effects that weather and travelling can have on their condition. Many people will be familiar with these precautions, but it’s still critical to communicate the message about travelling safely and getting to know your body, so you stay healthy and fit. If you need advice about any of the above or to talk to someone, contact the local team responsible for your care.”

Top tips to remember when travelling:

• Insulin freezes, so if you are flying, you need to carry your insulin in your hand luggage along with a note from your GP or your local diabetes service for security purposes

• Heat increases the rate insulin is absorbed by your body and may cause your blood glucose level to drop – ensure that you carry your usual hypo treatment with you

• Different time zones will affect your normal meal times – if you have any concerns about when to take medication, contact your GP surgery or diabetes specialist nurse

• Always check your insurance will fully cover any issues you may have relating to diabetes whilst abroad

• Look after your feet whilst on holiday ensuring you do not walking barefoot on the sand and always use sun cream on your feet to avoid sun burn

Diabetes services in Southport and Formby are delivered by Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust. If you would like to find out more about Type 2 diabetes and how to manage the conditionand are registered with a Southport and Formby GP, you are eligible to attend free local structured education sessions. Diabetes education sessions are informal, friendly and last approximately two hours with short breaks. They are held in a variety of locations across Southport and Formby with timings throughout the day, evenings and weekends. To find out more, speak to your GP, practice nurse or health care professional and request a referral. Alternatively, contact the Diabetes Education Team on 01704 387271 or email lcn-tr.diabeteseducation@nhs.net. For general advice on any form of diabetes, call the Diabetes UK Helpline on 0345 123 2399 or visit www.diabetes.org.uk.