The two most discussed topics in recent times have been and still are, COVID-19 and Diabetes. Earlier during the first wave of coronavirus, all that was known to us was that diabetics are at a higher risk of severe infection from the virus. But in the current times, while India has been battling the second wave, diabetics are the most vulnerable to have a severe infection, post-recovery complications and uncontrolled blood sugar levels.
To closely understand the link between COVID-19 and diabetes, the ETV Bharat Sukhibhava team spoke to Dr. Rajesh Vukkala, MD (General Medicine), Consultant Physician at VINN Hospital, Hyderabad. He says that unfortunately, India is the world leader when it comes to the diabetic population. Hence, our country is facing more issues related to COVID-19.
Dr. Rajesh Vukkala informs that the relation between COVID-19 and diabetes can be stated in 3 different ways:
- COVID-19 causing severe problems/being more aggressive in diabetic people
- People having diabetes are at a higher risk of severe infection
- People having preponed diabetes, as a result of severe infection or treatment through or misuse of steroids in case of mild infection. Also, people with mild COVID-19 who approached unqualified medical personnel for the treatment and were suggested to use steroids are facing adverse situations.
Apart from this, it is also seen that people who were having borderline diabetes are having significantly higher sugar levels or have full-grown diabetes because of the infection.
“Another worrying situation that we are seeing currently is the Black Fungus infection. This condition is directly related to the blood sugar levels in the body. Earlier there was no guideline for the treatment of COVID-19, but now, steroids have been approved as they have shown efficacy in the prevention of the COVID-19 complications as well as the infection. But since they are not being used in an appropriate manner, conditions like Mucormycosis or the Black Fungus infection are arising”.
Steroids And Diabetes
Currently, the usage of steroids is more, higher doses are being given, there is premature usage, and usage even when there is no indication. This is causing worsening of the infection, development of diabetes and post-recovery complications. “Whatever drugs that have been utilized so far, the only one that has proved to manage COVID-19 is Steroids. It has been accepted throughout the world and has shown results of positivity. The rest of them are contemplations”.
Our expert says that what we are seeing is that the steroids are being misused. Ideally, they should be avoided in the initial stages of the infection, because they enhance the replication of the virus. The main purpose of steroids is to reduce the inflammatory response of the virus, which is seen during the second half (7-10 days) of the period of infection. If the steroids are not used at the right time and in the right amount, they can have adverse effects on people, especially in diabetics. If diabetes is worsened due to the inappropriate use of steroids, it can also delay the healing process.
What To Remember?
Do not take steroids available over-the-counter with your own knowledge. It should only be taken under a medical expert’s supervision. During the period of infection (14 days), Dr. Vukkala advises diabetic people especially, to measure their blood sugar levels daily. This is to make sure that the diabetes is adequately controlled. Also, till the usage of steroids is stopped, it should be measured regularly.
Pertaining to diabetes, Dr. Vukkala also informs that stress directly causes higher sugar levels. He says, “it is important that a person takes it easy even when it is COVID-19. People shouldn’t panic if they are infected with the virus. Therefore, proper relaxation is necessary. Take all your prescribed medicines on time and do not skip them. Also, have an adequate amount of sleep. Apart from this, keep monitoring for any kind of inflammation and contact your doctor if you observe anything, as it can worsen diabetes.”
