Diabetes does not prevent the patient from performing Hajj, but it is required to take preventive measures to avoid health problems that he may be exposed to during Hajj, as crowding increases and the chance of infectious transmission and other diseases increases, in addition to the problem of drought, headache, and low or high blood glucose level.
Before you travel to perform Hajj: - Visit a physician to discuss with the diabetic patient about his ability to perform Hajj, as well as about continuing taking medication during the Hajj period. It is possible to reduce doses for the presence of high effort such as long walks.
- Take care to carry a detailed medical report on the health condition, it is allowed to bring syringes (if any) in case of travel by plane.
- Make sure to put a bracelet around the wrist or carry an identification card stating that the person has diabetes and treatment type, so that the necessary assistance can be provided when needed.
- Bring a sufficient amount of medications and syringes, make sure to take the necessary vaccinations before traveling.
- Make sure to take a glucometer to measure the rate of blood glucose daily and regularly, especially when you feel the blood glucose level imbalance.
- Accompanying a companion familiar with the patient's condition.
- Carry a candy bar or juice and snacks to use in case of flight delays and emergencies.
- If there is an insulin pump and travel by plane, sufficient information should be obtained about the possibility of its use.
Traveling Bag Contents:It is advisable to allocate a bag dedicated to diabetes equipment, as it includes:
- Medical report.
- Identification card for the person and his illness.
- Adequate amount of insulin and medications.
- Glucagon injection syringe (Glucagon Emergency Kit).
- Glucometer and its accessories.
- Umbrella.
- Sweets or juice and a snack.
- Notebook and pen to write down any notes or changes for doctor's review after return.
Health guidelines for people with diabetes during Hajj:- Make sure to inform the nearby person at the place of residence and the campaign doctor of having diabetes, as well as informing the companions of ways to treat high and low blood glucose level.
- Ensure that the diet is followed according to the professional's instructions.
- Ensure that insulin is cooled during transportation and storage, by placing it in a suitable case or refrigerator at the place of residence.
- Carry candy or juice in case of Low blood glucose level.
- Take care to carry the glucagon syringe (after the doctor's recommendation) to be used in case of low blood glucose level.
- During the Hajj, be sure to wear comfortable socks to protect the feet from any sores, avoid walking barefoot.
- It is advisable not to perform Tawaf and Sa'i until after taking adequate treatment and food, to prevent a low blood glucose level in the body.
- Make sure to drink water in appropriate quantities and frequently.
- Avoid overcrowding and sun's heat as much as possible.
- Temporary cessation of the continuation of performing the rituals in case of symptoms of Low blood glucose level.
- Use your own electrical shaving machine rather than the razor to avoid wounds and inflammation as much as possible.
- Maintain basic and light meals during travel and perform pilgrimage "Hajj" to reduce exposure to very low blood glucose levels.
- Be sure to take some disinfectants to treat skin inflammations when it occurs.
- If there are complications (e.g., skin infections and ulcers) consult a doctor.
- Carefully trim nails.
- Drying the feet well, especially between the fingers, using a cotton towel after ablution.
- Be sure to check your feet thoroughly twice a day and moisturize the feet thoroughly to avoid ulcers and cracks in the foot.
- See the nearest health center or hospital when needed.
- Washing hands with soap and water (unscented) frequently, especially before eating and after using the bathroom
- Use hand sanitizers (unscented) in crowded places.
- Do not touch your eyes with your hands, especially when in crowded places.
- Eat well-cooked food in places that are as clean as possible.
- Take care of the etiquette of coughing and sneezing using elbows or wipes and get rid of them.
- Wear a mask especially in crowded places.
After returning from Hajj:- See your doctor to rearrange your insulin doses and medications if needed and discuss any changes or complications during Hajj.
- Not to neglect the following cases:
- Any health problem (such as: High fever, flu).
- Sensation of any complications.