Summertime for kids is a time to kick back and enjoy each day free of the constraints of schedules, classes, and pop quizzes. Unfortunately, some things never take a day off. Like many other chronic conditions, pediatric diabetes requires regular monitoring and attention. Instead of loosening the reigns, summertime often brings new challenges to keep an eye on. Despite this, pediatric diabetes patients can still enjoy their summer with a bit of preparation and care.

Summer Heat: Potential Dangers

Elevated blood sugars, hot temperatures, and an increase in activity are the trifecta of factors responsible for dehydration. Teaching your child never to wait until they are thirsty to drink water is critical, in addition to parents actively ensuring they stay hydrated.

Travel Guidelines

Traveling with family and extended stays away from primary caregivers require different strategies:

Traveling with primary caregivers:
• Have a note from your child’s doctor that authorizes the use of insulin, syringes, and other necessary equipment.
• Insulin pumps should not go through airport x-rays.
• Wrap insulin in cold packs for when refrigeration isn’t immediately available.

Extended time away from primary caregivers:
• Consider a diabetes ID bracelet.
• Ensure an adult in charge or member of the medical staff is aware of your child’s condition and needs. Where to store insulin and determining experience levels with pediatric diabetes should be ironed out ahead of time.

Body Care

Pediatric diabetes patients may need extra care during the summer to keep an infusion site secure. Show your child how to care for it correctly and that they should let you know immediately if something doesn’t look right. Lastly, sometimes kids want a break from their insulin pumps during the summer. Their doctor can review if this is an option and what other ways they can get their medication during that time.

Other Reminders to Consider

Sleeping in later seems a natural summer benefit, but it can also be a warning sign of blood sugar troubles. If your child is sleeping later than usual, check their blood sugar level before going back to bed. Exercise and fun activities like swimming directly influence their blood sugar levels, and parents should monitor their children carefully.

Taking the “Complex” Out of Diabetes Care

The everyday responsibilities involved with pediatric diabetes can be overwhelming. Our experts here at Diabetes & Glandular Disease Clinic can help make their healthcare easier with our coordinated, centralized approach. Our physicians are board-certified in pediatrics as well as pediatric endocrinology and metabolism. Schedule your child’s comprehensive pediatric diabetes evaluation today. Call (210) 614-8612 or fill out a request form online.

References:

https://www.chop.edu/health-resources/summer-safety-tips-and-diabetes
https://www.cedars-sinai.org/newsroom/type-1-diabetes-doesnt-take-a-summer-break/