The dog days of summer can test our resiliency and our ability to stay cool. The extreme heat can, at times, feel overwhelming. But if you are a diabetic, you need to take special precautions because people suffering from the blood sugar disease are at increased risk of experiencing heat related difficulties.

According to the Centers for Disease Control soaring summer heat can negatively impact how insulin is used by your body and scientist want to remind diabetics that regardless of their health status, everyone should make sure that they are consuming enough fluids during the summer.

“People with diabetes face additional challenges and should pay close attention to managing their condition in the summer heat,” said Belinda Rayner, public health educator with the Harnett County Health Department.

Diabetics have a more difficult time adapting to high heat and humidity. The combination of heat and humidity can be lethal. That’s why diabetics need to stay cool when temperatures climb above 80 degrees in the shade and the humidity jumps above 40 percent. Such blistering hot, humidity can affect medication, testing supplies and a diabetic’s health.

The fact is that people with diabetes get dehydrated more quickly than the general population and not drinking enough fluids can result in elevated blood sugar. Prevent dehydration by drinking plenty water and avoiding sugar-sweetened beverages.

• Drink plenty of water — even if you’re not feeling particularly thirsty.
• Check your blood sugar more frequently.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Employ sunscreen and a hat when you’re outside. Sunburns can result in blood sugar levels.
• Never store insulin diabetes medicine in direct sunlight or in a hot car.