Focus on the Flu
September 16, 2009
By John Crowley
Many illnesses are casually called the “flu” today. However, because the real flu can be deadly for diabetics, we need to know exactly what the flu is and what we can do to try to prevent being infected—especially as the cold and flu season is cranking up into full swing.
Influenza (flu) is a viral infection of the upper respiratory system. It is not nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The symptoms of the flu are:
• fever
• headache
• eye soreness
• congestion
• cough
• sore throat
• fatigue
• body aches
Experts recommend that all diabetics receive an annual seasonal flu vaccine. In addition for 2009, the Centers for Disease Control recommend that all diabetics also receive a vaccination for the H1N1 flu (also called the swine flu). You should discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of flu vaccinations.
Additional steps you can take to help prevent flu infection:
• wash your hands frequently and thoroughly
• keep your hands away from your face and mouth
• DON’T use a handkerchief, use a tissue instead
• get plenty of sleep every night
• make sure you get recommended amounts of vitamins E, A, B-complex, and C
• don’t smoke
• reduce stress
The Difference between a Common Cold and the Flu
The common cold and the flu share many symptoms, which can make it very difficult to tell the difference. Your doctor can test to see if you have the flu or not. However, generally, the flu symptoms will be much more severe and intense.
Extra Important for People with Diabetes
If you have diabetes, your chance of dying from the flu is 5 to 15 times higher than someone without diabetes. Furthermore, if you have heart or kidney problems along with your diabetes, your risk is even higher. The bottom line is that the flu is not to be taken lightly.
| From | Comment |
|---|---|
 aldrich0405 |
October 7, 2009 5:19 AM Well, I wasn't going to get the flu shots this year but, after reading the article you posted, I have changed my mind. Thanks for setting me straight! What was I thinking... |
 allan0906 |
September 30, 2009 6:12 PM Loved the article. Very informative. My mom is a pharmacy tech. and going to school for pharmacy. She is making sure my brother and I get the flu and pneumonia shot every year. Especially me being diabetic. My mom will not let me get the H1N1 shot yet. She is not convinced on it's safety. My pediatrician doesn't have the flu shots available yet....I think they should have it by now..Walgreens started back on Septembe 1st. What are they waiting for? Kids shoulb be first!. I was sent home from school today sick, not sure if it is the flu...going to the doctors tomorrow....the shot is a little late don't you think? Kids under 18 can't receive the flu shot at Walgreens only their pediatrician...what a shame. By the time they get the shot in I am already sick. My mom could have given me the shot starting in September but I am not 18. How come Walgreens can get them for adults and kids who are the worse germ spreaders have to wait till their pediatrician gives them....still waiting. My mom is quite upset. What do you mom's and dad's think about this situation? Diabetics can really suffer dangerous consequences from this. |
 Vicrgreen |
September 28, 2009 1:03 AM Excellent informative article. I have discussed the H1N1 shot with my doctor who says he and his wife will not be getting it. I have had the seasonal flu shots for the last few years (since my diabetes diagnosis) and had the pneumonia shot 2 years running but was then told I only need one every 10 years. Of course I ended up spending 10 days in the hospital with pneumonia anyway, so may get the pneumonia shot again this year whether it is recommended or not. I will not be getting the "Swine Flu" shot. If it kills me it kills me but the side effects of the shot could be just as bad. |
 DRWaterMan |
September 24, 2009 12:58 PM I received the flu and the Pneumonia shot last year and stayed free of the flu. But, with all the talk about "H1N1 flu shot controversy" I honestly don't know what to do the H1N1 it has not been proven enough to my satisfaction on its effects there seams to be too much hype about it. I will get the yearly flu shot but will talk with my doctor and then what to decide what to do about getting the h1n1 flu shot is a different story altogether. Decisions decisions. |
 KitiKatt01 |
September 23, 2009 7:27 AM Last year I got the Flu and the Pneumonia Vac, I don't regret it one bit, especially since I'm on oxygen for COPD (chronic bronchitis) and asthma. i have too many health conditions to think about so I do my best to survive without any type of coughing and I was very blessed last winter! I also feel that along with washing one's hands that one should also remember all the germs that are on those faucets, light switches, etc. So we can never to be too careful but we always are humans, which means we do have flaws. So I suggest both shots, washing your hands plus the rest of the house and keeping a regular routine. Have a blessed fall and winter everyone! |
