Smart Summer Health: Managing Diabetes & Hypertension During Hot Georgia Days
Stay Safe and Healthy This Summer with Expert Tips from Your Adult Family Medicine Team
Georgia summers are known for their intense heat and humidity—conditions that can pose unique challenges for adults managing diabetes and hypertension. At Modern Family Medicine, our adult family medicine specialists are committed to helping you enjoy the season while keeping your health on track.
Why Summer Heat Matters for Diabetes & Hypertension
High temperatures and humidity can disrupt your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar and blood pressure. For those with diabetes, heat can cause dehydration, affect how your body uses insulin, and even impact the effectiveness of your medications and testing supplies. For individuals with hypertension, dehydration, and overheating can lead to dangerous spikes in blood pressure.
Essential Summer Health Tips
1. Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can raise blood sugar and blood pressure, increasing health risks for those with diabetes and hypertension.
- Avoid sugary and alcoholic drinks, which can worsen dehydration and destabilize blood sugar.
2. Protect Your Medications and Supplies
- Store insulin, blood pressure medications, and testing supplies in a cool place. Heat can reduce their effectiveness—consider using a lunch box with an ice pack when you’re on the go.
- Check your devices: High temperatures can affect the accuracy of glucometers and blood pressure monitors.
3. Plan Physical Activity Wisely
- Exercise during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening, and avoid direct sun when possible.
- Monitor your blood sugar and blood pressure before and after activity. Heat and exercise can cause unpredictable changes, so keep water and healthy snacks handy.
4. Eat Smart, Snack Smart
- Stick to your meal schedule and include balanced snacks with carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to keep blood sugar stable.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables are great summer options, but be mindful of portion sizes and carbohydrate content.
5. Protect Your Skin
- Wear sunscreen and lightweight, breathable clothing. Sunburn is a physical stressor that can raise blood sugar and blood pressure.
- Seek shade or stay indoors during peak heat hours (usually 12–4 p.m.).
6. Know the Warning Signs
- Watch for symptoms of dehydration, heat exhaustion, or low/high blood sugar, such as dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, or excessive sweating. Seek medical help if symptoms worsen.
When to Call Your Adult Family Medicine Provider
If you notice unusual symptoms, have trouble controlling your blood sugar or blood pressure, or have questions about adjusting your medication in the heat, reach out to your adult family medicine provider at Modern Family Medicine. We’re here to help you navigate the summer safely.
Modern Family Medicine is dedicated to providing comprehensive adult family medicine care for the Georgia community. Our team is ready to support you with personalized advice and care plans tailored to your needs—so you can make the most of your summer, safely.
