Olympic athletes, police officers, lawyers, ironworkers, and every other type of profession includes someone who has diabetes. Diabetes doesn’t have to be detrimental to your career. You can take a few steps to make managing your diabetes at work easier.
Put it out in the open
Ideally, everyone in the workplace would be educated about diabetes and how it is managed. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. If you feel uncomfortable discussing your diabetes at work, try to at least tell one or two co-workers about the possibility of having a low blood sugar episode, what symptoms to watch for and how they can help.
Don’t be Afraid to Tell Your Boss
We recommend you tell your supervisor as well. You are responsible for making accommodation requests to your employer. It’s not required but it’s highly recommend you provide your request in writing. The request should describe how diabetes is considered a disability under the American Disabilities Act, list the accommodations you need, and explain how they will assist promoting a safe working environment and better work performance. Common accommodations include:
- Breaks to check blood sugar, eat, take medication or go to the bathroom.
- Ability to keep diabetes supplies and food nearby.
- Ability to test blood sugar and inject insulin anywhere at work. If preferred, a private area to perform these tasks.
- Leave for treatment or training on diabetes management. No penalty for absences related to diabetes.
- Opportunity to work a standard shift instead of a swing shift.
- For individuals with diabetic neuropathy, a nerve disorder, permission to use a chair or stool instead of standing.
- For individuals with diabetic retinopathy, a vision disorder, large screen computer monitors or other assistive devices.
Plan to check blood sugar and take medication
During the ebb and flow of they day, it can be difficult to stop what you’re doing to manage your diabetes. You can make it more convenient with a little planning. Consider putting everything you need to check your blood sugar in a little pouch you can unzip and lay out on your work surface. If you take medications, take them at set times during the day. Schedule reminders on your work email or set an alarm on your phone.
Also, try to eat at set times everyday. If you have a work schedule that simply does not allow for a fixed break or lunch time talk to your physician about adjusting medication. You may need a diabetes medication that is shorter acting or one that can only be taken when you eat. If you take insulin, you might not want to do an injection in front of your co-workers. As an alternative, consider using an insulin pen which is more discreet.
Eat well during work hours
The key to healthy eating is to plan ahead. Try bringing food to work so you have control over what you eat and aren’t tempted to order fast food, use vending machines or eat food that has been brought to share in the break room.Easy options for lunch and snacks include:
- Salad with grilled chicken
- Cheese sticks
- Yogurt
- Hummus
- Fresh fruit
- Nuts
- Raw vegetables with low-fat yogurt dip
Stay Active at work
Physical activity is one of most important parts of diabetes management. If you’re on your feet at work, activity is probably built into your day, but it can be harder if you have a desk job. Many companies are starting to care about employee health and are developing programs such as chair yoga or lunchtime walking groups. If your company doesn’t currently offer a program you may be able to organize something like a lunchtime walk group on your own. If not, get up during the day and move around as often as possible and take a walk outside if you can.
Take care of your feet
According to the American Diabetes Association, People with diabetes can develop many different foot problems. Even ordinary problems can get worse and lead to serious complications. To make sure your feet are in good health, practice good foot care at home. Wash and check your feet for cuts each day. At work, try putting your feet up when you are sitting and moving your toes and ankles up and down. Do this for five minutes every hour or so to keep the blood flowing. Also be sure to always wear comfortable shoes and socks or hosiery.
If you are prediabetic, diabetic, or just have questions about diabetes, give us a call at 662-282-4226. We’ll happily answer any questions you have and direct you to toward resources to help you manage your diabetes.
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