For a diabetic throwing up should always be a cause for concern. This mainly because blood sugar levels can fluctuate drastically if a diabetic is ill. It also may be hard to keep medication, food, or liquids down when a diabetic is throwing up. Therefore, during this time period a diabetic should keep a careful watch over their blood sugar levels. They should also test for high ketone levels in their urine, especially if they are a type 1 diabetic. Any illness where blood glucose levels become high or there are excess ketone levels in urine should be reported to a physician. If symptoms do not subside within 6-8 hours, or if the diabetic simply needs guidance in handling the illness, a doctor should be seen without delay, according to Diabetes.org.
Handling Diabetic Throwing Up
FreeMd.com offers some advice when it comes to handling vomiting in diabetes. The website suggests only drinking clear liquids such as water or sports drinks. It is best to drink small amounts at a time, but to drink frequently. Two tablespoons of fluid every 5 minutes is the recommended amount. You should also avoid milk or any dairy products for at least three days. Alcohol, citrus juice, and coffee should also be avoided, as they can irritate the stomach.
Do not try to eat very much when you are throwing up or are nauseated. Once the vomiting and nausea resides, you should try to eat bland foods at first. Foods that are easy to tolerate include crackers, oatmeal, Jello, and yogurt. Avoid concentrated juices, spicy foods, and junk food during this time.
It is a good idea to call your doctor and get information on how to handle your medication during a diabetic throwing up period. You should also ask if it is okay to take nonprescription medications for vomiting such as Bonine, Dramamine, and Pepto-Bismol. It is also wise to keep an eye out for signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, decreased urination, dark yellow urine, and/or lack of tears, especially when it comes to diabetic children.
Finally, be aware that diabetic throwing up can be a sign of emergency conditions such as ketoacidosis (commonly occurs in type 1 diabetes) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (commonly occurs in type 2 diabetes). These are both very serious conditions. Keeping a close eye on your ketone levels and blood sugar levels should help you to avoid these conditions. Ketone test kits can be purchased over-the-counter if needed.
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