The Interplay between COVID-19 and Diabetes: Understanding Hyperglycemia, Complications, and Management Challenges in Diabetic Patients

Nambi Namusisi H.

School of Natural and Applied Sciences Kampala International University Uganda

                                           ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted individuals with diabetes, revealing a complex interplay between the virus and pre-existing hyperglycemia. This review explores how COVID-19 exacerbates hyperglycemia in diabetic patients, primarily through mechanisms such as stress response, cytokine storms, and increased insulin resistance. Diabetic individuals are particularly susceptible to severe COVID-19 outcomes, including heightened mortality rates, due to compromised immune responses and coexisting conditions like cardiovascular and renal complications. The review also addresses the unique challenges of managing diabetes during COVID-19, including the need for adjustments in insulin therapy and the impact of COVID-19 treatments, such as corticosteroids, on glucose control. Additionally, it highlights the potential long-term effects of COVID-19 on diabetic patients, including the onset of new diabetes and persistent metabolic issues. The review emphasizes the importance of glycemic control, vaccination, and holistic care approaches to mitigate the severity of COVID-19 in diabetic patients. Furthermore, it examines the psychological and socioeconomic impacts of the pandemic on this vulnerable population. As ongoing research continues to investigate the interaction between COVID-19 and diabetes, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and future directions in managing diabetic patients during and after the pandemic.

Keywords: COVID-19, Diabetes, Hyperglycemia, Complications, Management Challenges, Diabetic Patients

CITE AS: Nambi Namusisi H. (2024). The Interplay between COVID-19 and Diabetes: Understanding Hyperglycemia, Complications, and Management Challenges in Diabetic Patients. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC AND EXPERIMENTAL SCIENCES 4(2):49-54. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJSES/2024/424954