Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects many of your body’s important systems and can make you feel very ill or negatively affect your quality of life. In fact, when you apply for Social Security disability for diabetes in New York, it is classified by the body systems it affects rather than as the disease itself. Whether you have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes mellitus, you need to be extra careful when outdoor temperatures soar. Talk to your doctor about your disabling diabetes and follow these simple tips to keep yourself healthy this summer:

  • Drink plenty of water. Dehydration is a danger for anyone in the heat, but it’s especially dangerous when your blood sugar is poorly controlled. As your blood sugar rises, your body excretes more urine, which can cause rapid dehydration.
  • Stay indoors. If the temperatures are very high, as in this summer’s heat wave, staying inside during the hottest part of the day may be wise. Choose air-conditioned areas for activities and exercise, or wait for mornings or evenings when temperatures are lower. 
  • Check your blood sugar. Heat can cause your glucose levels to fluctuate more than usual. Check your blood sugar at least 4 times a day, and check it more often if you are feeling poorly. Check with your physician if you are having trouble controlling your glucose levels in the heat. 
  • Store diabetic supplies in a cool place. Any insulin, glucose meters, or test strips should be kept away from extreme temperatures. Insulin is especially sensitive to extreme heat and cold, so be sure to store it carefully and inspect the vials for clumping or unusual cloudiness.

If you suffer from diabetes, it is extremely important that you take the time to take care of yourself, especially when it’s this hot outside. If you find that you’re having trouble getting through your day or performing daily tasks, you may consider applying for Social Security disability for your diabetes.

A qualified White Plains disability lawyer with Markhoff & Mittman would be happy to speak with you at 855-614-4351 and answer your questions about diabetes disability in NY. We also offer many free books and resources to help you understand the disability or New York workers’ compensation processes.