Pay attention to whether Chinese patent cold medicines are sugar-free.Some Chinese patent lozenges, cold granules, etc., add sugar to improve taste and mask bitterness. For people with diabetes, such sugar-containing medicines can become a hidden cause of elevated blood sugar and disrupt glucose stability.Therefore, always check the label and instructions carefully, and choose sugar-free products whenever possible.
Use cold medicines containing ephedrine with cautionAlthough ephedrine in cold medicines may raise blood sugar, the content is very low and generally has little effect on blood glucose.However, it constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure, so diabetic patients with high blood pressure should avoid cold medicines containing ephedrine.
Use antipyretic and analgesic cold medicines with cautionSome cold medicines contain acetaminophen, which can cause sweating and reduce body fluid, possibly leading to higher blood glucose.Therefore, people with diabetes taking such medicines should drink plenty of water and monitor blood sugar closely.
Seek medical attention immediately if any of the following occurs:
Persistent fever for several days.
Uncontrollable vomiting or diarrhea lasting for days.
Worsening of the “three polys and one loss” symptoms (polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, weight loss), plus:
Gastrointestinal symptoms: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
Severe dehydration: dry, cracked lips and tongue
Confusion
Fruity or acetone-like smell on breath
Positive urine ketones
Blood glucose remains extremely high even after adjusting oral antidiabetic drugs or insulin dosage at home, with fasting or pre-meal blood glucose above 13.9 mmol/L.People with diabetes should pay extra attention to blood glucose changes during a cold, manage blood sugar properly, and choose cold medicines scientifically.Seek medical help promptly in case of abnormalities to recover safely.