(MENAFN- The Peninsula) Decreased food intake during Ramadan is a known risk factor for the development of hypoglycemia among individuals with diabetes who choose to fast.
Abstention from food and fluids for about 15 hours a day can cause a sharp drop in blood glucose levels whereby patients do not have enough energy to perform their normal daily activities, said Dr Mahmoud Ali Zirie, Senior Consultant and Head of Endocrinology and Diabetes Division, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC).
Hypoglycemia generally occurs when a diabetic significantly alters dosage of oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin, misses a meal (for example, the pre-dawn meal during fasting), or performs excessive physical activity, he said.
Initial symptoms of hypoglycemia include trembling, increased hunger, perspiration, quickened heartbeat, lack of concentration, irritability and confusion.
The symptoms must be addressed immediately. If left untreated, they may develop into more serious symptoms such as convulsions and loss of consciousness.
When initial symptoms of hypoglycemia appear, patients should check blood glucose level and break fast. Unconscious patients should not be given any beverages, to avoid the risk of chocking. Urgent medical care should be sought.
Hypoglycemia is more dangerous than hyperglycemia as patients with hypoglycemia are susceptible to losing consciousness.
Dr Zirie stressed that this is particularly concerning in instances where an individual may be driving or is in an elevated place.
Before making the decision to fast, patients should seek advice from their healthcare provider on a treatment plan, medication dosages and diet.
Diabetics should also get into the habit of carrying sugar pills or packages of sweetened juice, which should be consumed at the presentation of such symptoms.
Fasting diabetics should limit intake of dates to one or two per day, just enough to raise their blood sugar before Iftar (sunset meal). They should consume whole bread and long-lasting proteins, such as cheese and eggs, at Suhoor (pre-dawn meal).
It is advisable to have a snack, preferably fruit, between the two meals and to do light exercise, such as walking afterwards. Individuals with diabetes who fast should also consume sufficient amounts of fluids, such as water, soup and sugar-free juices to avoid dehydration.
HMC has continued to improve the provision of care for people with diabetes.
National diabetes centres have been opened at Hamad General and Al Wakra Hospital that provide services from initial screening through to treatment, health education, medication and equipment.
During Ramadan, HMC also supports a phone-based emergency service, which allows any patient with diabetes, relatives or caregivers to call and ask for medical advice related to diabetes and fasting. The hotline 55981331 is operational from 8pm to 11pm seven days a week.
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