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Diabetic and hypertensive 68 year old experiencing low blood sugar in cold climate - Seeking advice

Komal

Komal Jethmalani  |382 Answers  |Ask -

Dietician, Diabetes Expert - Answered on Feb 25, 2025

Komal Jethmalani is a practising dietician and nutritionist with over 26 years of experience.
She specialises in weight loss and diabetes management.
Jethmalani has completed her MSc in food and nutrition from SNDT University and trained at Jaslok Hospital.
She is a NDEP-certified diabetes educator.... more
Varsha Question by Varsha on Feb 25, 2025Hindi
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I am 68 years old, a diabetic for past 20 years and hypertensive for 15. I underwent CABG in 2011. Currently on medication for all ailments. My diabetes and blood pressure are under control. For past 5 years, I have been off and on visiting and living with my daughter in England, often for 3 months at a stretch, in climate with average temperatures below 10C. It has been my experience that while in cold climatic conditions, with intake fo prescribed diabetic medication, my blood sugar level tends to go low, sometimes as low as 50-60 mg/dL. My diabetologist has only advised to halve does of Gemer DS (3 & 1000) (Glimeperide 3 mg+Metformin 1000 mg) 1BD. This has reduced the incidence but at times I feel dizzy & like blanking out and upon checking on glucometer find sugar level falling below 70 mg/dL. My question is: Is there a correlation between climatic conditions (Cold climate) and sugar levels in the blood? If so, how does it play out?

Ans: Cold weather can affect insulin sensitivity. Some studies suggest that cold exposure may increase insulin resistance, making it harder to control blood sugar levels. Cold weather often leads to changes in dietary habits which can affect blood sugar levels. Make a note if you are experiencing similar symptoms even while in a warm climate. Keep a check if you are shifting dietary habits in cold weather by consuming more low carb foods and if activity levels have increased simultaneously. Given your experience with low blood sugar levels in cold climates, it's essential to monitor your blood sugar closely and adjust your medication as needed. It's also a good idea to discuss your symptoms and experiences with your diabetologist to ensure you have a tailored plan for managing your diabetes in different climatic conditions.
DISCLAIMER: The answer provided by rediffGURUS is for informational and general awareness purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment.
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