Diabetes affects how the body uses glucose, the main type of sugar in the blood. Glucose — an important source of energy for the body's cells — comes from the foods we eat. Glucose is carried to the cells through the bloodstream. Several hormones, including insulin, control glucose levels in the blood. When a person has diabetes, the body either can't make or can't respond to insulin properly.
Exercise makes insulin work better in the body, which helps people with diabetes keep their blood sugar levels in a healthier range. But when kids with diabetes exercise, they can experience low blood sugar, called hypoglycemia, or high blood sugar, called hyperglycemia.
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels) can happen during or after exercise, when the body has used up much of its stored sugar, especially if insulin levels in the body are still high after an insulin injection. Signs of hypoglycemia include extreme hunger, tremors, rapid heart rate, cold sweat, pale-gray skin color, headache, moodiness or irritability, drowsiness or dizziness, blurred or double vision, confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) can happen during sports and exercise because the muscles need more energy and the body responds by releasing extra glucose into the bloodstream. If the body doesn't have enough insulin to use the glucose, then the sugar will stay in the blood, which can cause increased urination and dehydration. Other signs of hyperglycemia include excessive thirst, fatigue, weakness, and blurry vision.
Students with diabetes who play sports may:
Students with diabetes can play sports and exercise at the same level as anyone else. And just like most kids and teens, students with diabetes are healthier if they get plenty of exercise, which can help them manage the disease.
You may need to remind students with diabetes to check their blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercise, practice, and games. Also, make sure that:
Students with diabetes may miss class time, practices, or games due to doctor visits or hospital stays. Teachers and coaches should give them special consideration regarding missed instruction, assignments, testing, and sports.
Reviewed by: Steven Dowshen, MD
Date Reviewed: Jun 1, 2018