Pandemic Fear & Diabetes: 1 in 5 Bravehearts Missed Medical Quests

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on people with diabetes. Many people have been afraid to go to the doctor or the hospital for fear of catching the virus. This has led to a decline in diabetes care, with some people missing medical appointments and others not taking their medication as prescribed.

A study published in the journal Diabetes Care found that 1 in 5 people with diabetes missed a medical appointment during the pandemic. The study also found that people who missed appointments were more likely to have poor blood sugar control.

Another study, published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, found that people with diabetes were less likely to take their medication as prescribed during the pandemic. The study also found that people who did not take their medication as prescribed were more likely to have high blood sugar levels.

The pandemic has also led to an increase in the number of people with diabetes who are experiencing mental health problems. Anxiety and depression are common among people with diabetes, and these problems can make it difficult to manage the condition.

The pandemic has had a significant impact on people with diabetes. It is important for people with diabetes to stay connected with their healthcare providers and to continue to take their medication as prescribed. It is also important for people with diabetes to manage their stress levels and to seek help if they are experiencing mental health problems.

Here are some tips for people with diabetes who are concerned about the pandemic:

• Stay connected with your healthcare provider: Talk to your doctor about your concerns about the pandemic and how it is affecting your diabetes care. Your doctor can help you to develop a plan to stay safe and to continue to manage your diabetes.
• Take your medication as prescribed: It is important to continue to take your medication as prescribed, even if you are feeling well. Missing doses of medication can lead to high blood sugar levels, which can increase your risk of complications.
• Manage your stress levels: Stress can make it difficult to manage diabetes. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, or spending time with loved ones.
• Seek help if you are experiencing mental health problems: If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health problems, seek help from a mental health professional. Treatment for mental health problems can help you to manage your diabetes and to live a healthy life.

The pandemic has been a challenging time for people with diabetes. However, there are steps that you can take to stay safe and to continue to manage your diabetes. By staying connected with your healthcare provider, taking your medication as prescribed, managing your stress levels, and seeking help if you are experiencing mental health problems, you can stay healthy and live a fulfilling life.