When you are unwell with a cold, flu, infection, or other illness your blood sugar levels can be affected, sometimes rising or falling unexpectedly. Knowing how to manage your diabetes during these times is important to stay safe and prevent complications.
This page is here to help you understand sick day rules, answer common questions, and guide you to reliable resources that explain how to manage your diabetes effectively while you are unwell.
Below, you’ll find useful information and leaflets covering topics such as monitoring blood sugar more frequently, adjusting medications safely, staying hydrated, and knowing when to seek medical help. These resources are designed to help you stay well and confident in managing your diabetes during periods of illness.
Diabetes UK: Diabetes and being ill | Managing when you're sick | Diabetes UK
This helpful article covers how illness affects diabetes and how to adapt your diabetes management when you're sick
Diabetes Research & Wellness Foundation have this very helpful leaflet which gives guidance on care for yourself when you're ill, possible changes to medication, and insulin dose adjustment for Type 1, 2 and 3c diabetes. drwf-diabetes-management-when-you-are-ill-v2-0-june-2025-a4.pdf
Trend Diabetes leaflets on 'What to do when you are ill' also gives advise on managing your insulin dose when you're ill plus advice on what to eat and drink.
Type 1 Diabetes: A5_T1Illness_TREND.pdf]
Type 2 Diabetes: A5_T2Illness_TREND.pdf