Diabetes-related Diseases

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Diabetes and Hajj

Overview:

Having diabetes will not prevent you from performing Hajj. However, it is required to take preventive measures to avoid health problems that you may encounter during your trip. In hajj there is crowding, and the chance of transmitting infectious diseases increases. Many pilgrims also deal with dehydration, headache, and low or high sugar level during hajj.

Before travel:

If you are diabetic and you are about to perform hajj, you should see your doctor to discuss your ability and readiness for it, as well as the medications you should be taking. Your doctor may reduce your dose of medications given the effort you will be making during rituals, such as long walks.
Carry a detailed medical report on your health condition and take your needles on the plane you’re boarding.
Wear a bracelet around your wrist or carry an identification card stating that you are diabetic and the type of treatment you take in case you needed emergency help.
Bring an adequate amount of medicines and needles. Moreover, take all necessary vaccinations before traveling.
Take a glucometer with you to monitor your blood sugar level daily, especially when you feel an imbalance in your glucose level.
Bring an escort that is familiar with your condition.
Carry a piece of candy or juice and snacks with you for emergency situations or flight delays.
If your treatment includes an insulin pump, make sure you have sufficient information on its use on board of a plane.

Suitcase contents:

It is recommended to dedicate a kit to diabetes. It should include:

A medical report
Identification card of yourself and your disease
Sufficient quantity of insulin and medication
Low blood sugar emergency needle (glucagon)
A glucometer and its accessories
Umbrella
Candy or juice and a snack
Notebook and pen to write any notes or changes. This helps keep your doctor updated on your condition.

Health tips for diabetics during Hajj:

Ensure that individuals around your place of residence and the doctor of the campaign are informed of your diabetes. It is also essential to inform your escort of ways they can help with cases of high or low blood sugar.
Follow the diet recommended by your doctor.
Ensure that your insulin is cooled while its transported and stored. You can do that by placing it in a suitable container or refrigerator at your place of residence.
Carry around candy or juice in case your blood sugar drops.
Carry a glucagon needle (after consulting your doctor) to use it in cases of a blood sugar drop.
Wear comfortable socks to protect your feet from ulcers, and avoid walking barefoot.
Do not start tawaf before eating enough food and taking your medications as advised to avoid low blood sugar.
Drink enough water.
Avoid crowding and direct sun exposure as much as possible.
Stop performing the rituals temporarily if you feel symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Use your personal electric razor instead of a razor blade to avoid cuts and infections as much as possible.
Keep eating your main meals and snacks as normal throughout your trip and hajj rituals to reduce chances of severe hypoglycemia.
Take some antiseptics with you to treat skin infections when they occur.
In cases of complications (e.g. skin infections and ulcers), contact your doctor.
Be careful when trimming your nails.
Go to the nearest health center or hospital when needed.

After travel

See your doctor upon your return. He may recommend readjusting your insulin doses and medications if necessary. Discuss with him any changes or complications you had during hajj.
Do not neglect the following cases: