My five year old daughter was diagnosed with type�1 diabetes about two months ago. She has developed a cold over the last few days, and her sugar levels are higher than in previous weeks. It is in the low 20s [mmol/L, 360 mg/dl] during the day and approximately 8 to 14 mmol/L [144-252 mg/dl] at night. Could the infection be causing this?

It is possible that the viral infection has caused a rise in blood glucose readings. It is important that you check readings regularly, check for ketones, and if necessary give extra insulin. Your diabetes team should give you information on how to do this.

It is also possible that she simply needs a bit more insulin as she is growing. Remember in children with diabetes, the readings often vary one week to the next, and you need to keep on top of the blood glucose readings and alter the amount of insulin you need to give.

JS

[Editor’s comment: See: sick day management.

Also, make sure that the insulin you are currently using has not been open for more than a month.

SS]