22 Oct Top 10 Things about T1D to Share with Your Teacher
Posted at 00:01h
in Diabetes Awareness
In this time of seated classes, delayed starts, distance learning, hybrid plans, split weeks, learning pods, etc., it’s wise to take stock and make sure you’re communicating with teachers about type one diabetes (T1D).
Students with T1D need a comprehensive school plan for daily management and medical emergencies as well as a 504 for accommodations, but I’m sharing this as a quick reminder and/or discussion starter.
Who doesn’t love a cheat sheet?
Back to Basics…
Top 10 Things about T1D to Share with Your Teacher
- T1D is an autoimmune disease in which a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin. Currently, there is no prevention or cure. I didn’t cause it, and I can’t prevent it. I take insulin via pump or injections, but that is not the same as a cure.
- Sometimes I may need to eat in class.
- We need to create and work from a shared plan about where and when to go for blood sugar testing and how to treat a low.
- If I’m not concentrating, it may be because I’m low and need to test my blood sugar. Please be on the lookout for other symptoms which can include:
- Shakiness
- Dizziness
- Hunger
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Sweating or chills
- Irritability, anger, stubbornness, or sadness
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
- I will need immediate attention and should not be left alone if my blood sugar is low.
- I can go low if I have too much insulin, wait too long for a meal or snack, or get extra physical activity (which can drop my blood glucose very rapidly).
- I may be thirsty and need to use the bathroom more frequently when my blood sugar is high.
- Some days are a rollercoaster of high and low blood sugars (even if my routine is the same). If I have a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) or insulin pump, they may beep. I should not ignore these alerts.
- I need to have access to supplies (a kit that I carry with me, a go-to box of supplies in the nurse’s office, and/or items stored in the classroom).
- Diabetes doesn’t define me! I appreciate your help with my safety and your commitment to all of your students. Teachers rule!