Managing comorbidities during COVID 19

While everyone is following social distancing and preventive measures amid Lockdown, there is an extra responsibility for people with co-morbid conditions such as Diabetes or Hypertension to take the utmost self-care and manage these conditions effectively at home.

The study revealed that the most frequent comorbidities in the SARS-COV2 affected population are hypertension and Diabetes followed by cardiovascular diseases and respiratory diseases (Asthma, COPD) [Figure 1]

Prevelance of Comorbidities in SARS-COV2 patients

Figure 1: Prevalence of Co-morbidities in COVID-19 affected Patients

Lockdown Woes…

The constant worry of your health and health of loved ones can lead to stress which may manifest as changes in sleep, eating habits, excessive use of alcohol, smoking or worsening of chronic disease

Diabetes demands disciplined self-care

Diabetes is a chronic condition that needs constant management. It is very important to maintain stable blood sugar levels and simultaneously keeping blood pressure, body weight, and cholesterol levels under control to prevent complications.

10 Tips to effectively manage Diabetes and Hypertension in lockdown

Follow your basic routine as it was before lockdown
Take Regular Medication
- Do not miss/skip even a single dose
- Keep a stock of medicine (insulin syringes, vials, etc.) and monitoring device (strips, etc.)
Regular Exercise/ Physical Activity
Have a healthy and balanced Diet
- Consume more fruit and vegetables
- Eat high fiber and low carbohydrate diet
- Drink plenty of water
- Reduce salt intake
- Avoid binge eating while watching T.V
Avoid Stress
- Indulge in your hobbies, learn new things, meditate, and talk with friends and family members.
Have an adequate good night sleep to rejuvenate yourself
Limit your caffeine consumption, avoid Alcohol and smoking
Always monitor blood pressure to make sure it's under control
Ask your Doctor before taking common pain medications ( NSAIDs- ibuprofen), as they can increase the Blood Pressure
As per the latest guidelines, do not stop taking prescribed ACE-Inhibitors or ARBs (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or blocker) medications for high blood pressure, or heart disease. [These medications don’t increase risk of contracting COVID-19]

About the Author

Dr. Aarti Nehra is an MBBS graduate and pursued Masters of Medical Science and Technology from IIT Kharagpur. She has worked as a consultant to provide services across the medical device and pharmaceutical industry. A cross-domain expert with experience in clinical practice, clinical marketing, competitive intelligence, market strategy and analysis, statistical analysis, and medical research.