COVID-19 is scary for diabetics and here is why. A French study found, that 3/10 diabetic patients treated for the novel coronavirus either required ventilation or died within a week of hospitalization.

Researchers looked at more than 1,300 patients with COVID-19 in French hospitals who also had diabetes — 89 per cent of whom had Type 2 — and found that 10 per cent died by day seven of their hospitalization, and one in five needed a ventilator to breathe.

The average age was 70 years old and most of the patients were male. Diabetics is a huge risk factor for more serious COVID-19 results and complications. Other influential factors were age (particularly over 75) also obstructive sleep apnea and higher BMI were also linked with higher death rates. People in these groups should limit their risk of exposure to the virus. Please note that although diabetics have a higher risk of complications, they do not have a higher risk of contracting the virus.

If you have diabetes be sure to follow rigorous hygiene routines and limit exposure to any potential opportunities of exposure.

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If you are a Diabetic, exercise even greater caution during the COVID-19 pandemic to prevent injuries and unnecessary visits to the hospitals as doctor’s offices are now closed. Hospitals will already be over-burdened and you don’t want to expose yourself or others to a greater risk for COVID-19.

Some of the preventive measures Diabetics can take are:

1.)Check feet for injuries daily

Because Diabetics have lesser sensations in their feet, injuries may occur and not even be noticed. Check feet daily for any areas that are hot, swollen, painful or red. These are signs that an infection may be present. If there is any dampness that may be a sign that something is draining such as a blister or open sore.

2.)Wash and moisturize your feet daily

Although people are staying at home every day, be sure to still exercise good hygiene habits and wash, dry and moisturize your feet every day. However, be sure not to moisturize between your toes. Make sure to have a good supply of moisturizer so you don’t run out. Wearing socks after moisturizing is a good idea to help the lotion absorb into the skin.

3.)Don’t walk barefoot at home

Don’t risk stepping on something sharp at home that can cause an injury to an unprotected foot. Even stepping on something like a toy can lead to a serious injury if left undetected. Wearing indoor runners would be the best choice for protection.

4.)Get some exercise

Diabetics have poor circulation so it’s very important to incorporate some exercise during your day. Go for a walk, work in the garden, do an online yoga video or go for a bike ride. There are still many possibilities and now that the weather is nicer outdoor options are available. If you haven’t exercised for a while start slow and work your way up. Just walk for 5 mins and add on a minute per day.

5.)Cut toenails carefully and never cut callouses

Try to keep our toenails at a good length but be careful not to cut into the skin. If you cannot reach your toenails use a file to file the edges. If there is someone who has steady hands who can help you enlist their assistance, If you have hard callouses use a pumice stone or emery board after soaking your feet to file them down. Never use a razor or knives to cut them. That is very dangerous

6.)Watch for bleeding under callouses

if you notice bleeding or red spots under callouses call your doctor immediately as there may be an ulcer or damaged skin underneath.

If you have any questions we are still available by phone 604-339-2878. Stay healthy and safe.

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