Managing Diabetes During Cancer Treatment

Going through diabetes is challenging, and cancer makes it even more difficult. Chemotherapy, steroids, and strong medications fluctuate your blood sugar, which makes you feel fatigued. This also leads to appetite changes that affect your eating habits. These changes are problematic, but they aren’t a failure. In fact, it is a way our body responds when both treatments work simultaneously.

Challenges faced by patients

Blood sugar becomes unpredictable due to cancer, even for those who managed it well earlier. The following are some of the challenges faced by patients:

• High blood sugar levels are caused by stress or reduced activity.
• Low blood sugar levels can occur when the appetite is poor.
• Irregular meal patterns that arecaused by nausea and fatigue.
• Infections or illnesses that fluctuate blood sugar and slow down recovery.

These challenges are quite common and show how the body is coping with the treatment.

Tips to keep blood sugar in control

Small adjustments in your routine make blood sugarlevel even more manageable. The following are a few ways that can be more helpful:

• Eat small and regular meals.
• Discuss insulin, medication timing, and adjustments with your doctor.
• Stay hydrated to maintain blood sugar levels.
• Keep your body functional with gentle movements and exercises.

These practices can help you gain control over your diabetes, even during your treatment.

Working with your care team

Managing diabetes along with cancer is difficult, but that doesn’t mean you have to got though it alone. A coordination between your oncologists and diabetologist creates a balance between your cancer and blood sugar. Noting changes and sharing them with your doctor can help manage side effects or deeper issues, if any. Working together with your doctor can clarify your doubts and create a sense of support.

The right time to seek medical help

It is challenging to identify changes when two problems are addressed simultaneously. However, a sudden drop or rise in your blood sugar needs attention. Additionally, symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or nausea also need to be addressed promptly. Reaching for help early isn’t panic. It’s being self-aware to prevent future complications.

Managing diabetes while fighting cancer

Managing diabetes along with cancer is overwhelming. But in many cases, it is how your body responds to the ongoing treatment. With the right support and care, you can regain stability and heal over time.