I am a Type 1 Diabetic patient and I am going to a high altitude trekking. Besides my normal medication do I need to take any special care?

Dr. Prabhakar Laxman JatharEndocrinologist47yrs exp

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Hello, Thanks for the query. It is very essential to monitor glucose levels carefully while one is on high altitude tricking. It is better to maintain glucose level around 160 plus (9 mMoles/L) so as to avoid hypoglycemia or hyper one. It is essential to carry glucose gels and even glucagon injections in case of hypoglycemia. Glucometers may not give correct readings due to extreme temperatures. Similarly Insulin also should be properly stored. High altitude can lead to hypoglycemia due to excess exercise or some times hyperglycemia due counter regulatory hormone activity. It is better to consult the medical staff available there. Thanks.  

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