Adapted from a Diabetes Health article
Millions of Americans will be traveling for the holidays, and with air travel frustration at an all-time high, a good portion of those folks will be hitting the roads.
For drivers with diabetes, a long road trip can interfere with blood sugar management and lead to low blood sugar. If not treated quickly, serious complications could arise, such as a loss of consciousness.
Drive safely this holiday season. Here are some useful tips:
1. Pack more snacks, drinks, and blood sugar testing supplies than you think you will need so that you are prepared in the event of traffic or other delays.
2. Store insulin in a cooler or insulated container.
3. Wear your medical ID bracelet .
4. Test before leaving. If it is 70 mg/dL or below, eat or drink something that will raise it quickly, and wait until your blood sugar is back to normal before getting behind the wheel.
5. Map out restaurants and grocery stores along your route so you know when and where you’ll stop for healthy meals and snacks.
6. Research emergency or urgent-care clinics along your travel route. If you belong to an HMO, ask what doctors and facilities along your travel route are affiliated with your plan.
7. Test again at regular intervals throughout the trip.
8. Stop periodically to walk around, stretch your legs and give your body a break from sitting down.