Summer Planning Toolkit modules

Module 3: Chronic disease and heat

Diabetes

Summer Planning Toolkit modules
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Diabetes

GPs need to be aware of the many ways in which heat can affect patients with diabetes’ blood glucose levels (BGL), hydration, kidney function, autonomic response and temperature control, for example:

  • patients with diabetes may find it more difficult to sweat due nerve damage which, in turn, can make it more difficult to remain cool
  • extreme heat and raised blood glucose concentrations can both lead to increased dehydration
  • high temperatures can affect the way your body uses insulin, which may mean patients need to test their blood sugar more often as well as the food and drink they consume
  • Diabetes medication can spoil during warm weather so patients are encouraged to ensure they are stored correctly 30.

Resources

The RACGP’s Management of type 2 diabetes: A handbook for general practice provides guidelines on defining and diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, management of type 2 diabetes, lifestyle interventions, along with information on other associated health risks and co-morbidities. It also contains a list of resources on managing type 1 and 2 diabetes, including:

Further information on Type 1 diabetes can be found on the following Diabetes Australia webpages:

The Diabetes Australia website contains a range of further information for health professionals, including:

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