My Diabetes My Way: October 2020 Update
Welcome to the My Diabetes My Way Newsletter for October 2020.
Mobile App Update
We are pleased to let you know that there is an updated version of our mobile app currently rolling out. If you have already downloaded the app, it should update over the next few days. The update makes several changes based on user feedback and resolves a data synchronisation issue that some users have reported. If you haven’t already downloaded the app and would like to be able to access your diabetes records on your mobile device, please see our setup guide for instructions: https://www.mydiabetesmyway.scot.nhs.uk/admin/UploadedFiles/MyDiabetesMyWayMobileAppSetV1.0.pdf?id=3207
We are still making changes to the app and plan another update before the end of the year to include some of the additional features that are currently only available on the website. We will let you know when this further update will be available.
Flu Vaccination
Taking care of yourself and your loved ones has never been so important and with coronavirus (COVID-19) still active, make sure you get the flu vaccine this autumn to protect yourself, others and the NHS. For more information see: https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/immunisation/vaccines/flu-vaccine
Living with Diabetes During Coronavirus
Eating as healthily as possible may be difficult given that getting to the shops may be an issue if you are self-isolating. Be realistic and don't worry if you have to eat a bit differently: https://vimeo.com/414263177. Maintain some kind of regular activity or exercise that suits you: https://vimeo.com/400653271
You may be feeling anxious, due to self-isolating or a change of routine. Try alternate ways of communicating with friends and family: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing.
Make sure you have enough of your medications and monitoring equipment if appropriate, but there is no need to overorder supplies. There are some technologies that can support you with change and monitoring what you do: https://vimeo.com/400907843.
Be aware of your sick day rules and speak to your healthcare team so that you know what to do if you do become unwell. Also consider sharing this information with a family member or friend to help you during periods of illness. If you do become ill, keep well hydrated and speak to your healthcare team to support diabetes treatment and monitoring. Healthcare professionals are still providing a diabetes service but be aware that you may have to adapt to using technology or communicate via telephone.
Hypo Awareness Week 2020 – October 5 – 11
MDMW will join forces with healthcare professionals across the country to raise awareness of hypoglycaemia in October. Hypoglycaemia occurs when your blood glucose levels are too low (below 4 mmol/L). This is a potentially dangerous side-effect of some diabetes tablets and insulin. The following advice will help you prevent, recognise and treat a hypoglycaemic episode, commonly known as a ‘hypo’: https://www.mydiabetesmyway.scot.nhs.uk/Content.aspx?id=11
https://vimeo.com/424918578
My Diabetes My Way Admin
Due to the current situation with Coronavirus, it is taking us longer to collect mail, create new enrolment packs and send out registration paperwork for you to access your diabetes records. We are currently processing enrolment packs in batches every two weeks, but we are now happy for you to email us back a photo or scanned copy of your signed form to avoid any further delays.
Help and Support
If you have not yet managed to gain access to your diabetes records on My Diabetes My Way, or would like an update on the status of your registration, please let us know. You can contact us regarding any problems or request further help and support by emailing: mydiabetes.myway@nhs.scot
Thank you for your continued support and stay safe.