Extreme cold exposure can have a significant impact on people with diabetes, especially those with long-standing disease and pre-existing vasculopathy. Dr. Gupta explained that vasoconstriction and vascular damage in people with diabetes can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral gangrene. He advised avoiding prolonged exposure to cold, maintaining body warmth, and seeking immediate medical care if warning symptoms appear.
A major portion of the discussion centered on hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Dr. Gupta noted that blood glucose levels below 70 mg/dL indicate hypoglycemia, while levels below 54 mg/dL can cause significant symptoms. He highlighted common causes, including long gaps between meals, prolonged action of insulin or certain oral medications like sulfonylureas, kidney dysfunction, and the use of some painkillers or antibiotics. The concept of hypoglycemia unawareness, caused by autonomic neuropathy, was explained as a dangerous condition in which warning symptoms may be absent.
Dr. Rakesh Parikh (Jaipur) added that wide glucose fluctuations and long duration of diabetes increase the risk of autonomic dysfunction. He emphasized the role of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices in identifying unnoticed low-sugar episodes and preventing serious complications. He also reinforced the need for regular screening of target organs—eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and cholesterol—especially in people with long-standing diabetes.
Expert- Dr Sunil Gupta & Dr Rakesh Parikh (Jaipur)
Anchor- Swati Huddar
Podcast: 09/01/2026
Recorded at: Akashwani Nagpur
