Printer-Friendly Version of the "Action Steps" if You Use Insulin
Follow your meal plan.
Don't skip meals, especially if you've already taken your insulin, because your blood glucose may go too low. (See chapter 3 for information on how to handle hypoglycemia, also called low blood sugar.)
See your doctor before starting an exercise program.
Check your blood glucose before, during, and after exercising. Don't exercise when your blood glucose is over 240 or if you have ketones in your urine.
Don't exercise right before you go to sleep, because it could cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) during the night.
Keep a daily record of
Your blood glucose numbers.
The times of the day you took your insulin.
The amount and type of insulin you took.
Whether you had ketones in your urine.
Tell your doctor if you have hypoglycemia often, especially at the same time of the day or night several times in a row.
Tell your doctor if you've passed out from hypoglycemia.
Ask your doctor about glucagon. Glucagon is a medicine that raises blood glucose. If you pass out from hypoglycemia, someone should call 911 and give you a glucagon shot.
Take your insulin, even if you've been throwing up. Ask your doctor about how to adjust your insulin dose, based on your blood glucose test results.
When you travel,
Buy special insulated bags to carry your insulin and to keep it from freezing or getting too hot.
Take extra needles, insulin, and blood glucose test strips in case of loss or breakage.
If you're going to another country, ask your doctor for a letter saying that you have diabetes and need insulin shots. If asked, show the letter to the customs people.
