Hypoglycaemia
Hypoglycaemia, or hypos, are periods of low blood sugar. Although common for people with diabetes, a hypo can be unnerving. Treating it appropriately reduces its effects and duration.
Noticing a Hypo
The sooner you notice low blood sugar, the less disruptive it is likely to be. Typical signs of hypoglycaemia include:
- Feeling suddenly tired or weak
- Difficulty concentrating
- Exaggerated mood changes
- Feeling dizzy
Hypos can occur at any time, particularly during physical activity. Always pay attention to blood sugar levels when exercising.
Confirming a Hypo
Where possible, check your blood glucose to confirm a hypo. If testing is not possible and you are unsure, it is safer to treat the symptoms as a hypo. Untreated hypoglycaemia can quickly become dangerous.
Act Quickly
Immediate treatment helps prevent severe hypos, speeds recovery, and reduces the risk of losing hypo awareness.
Treating a Hypo
Take 15–20 grams of quick-acting carbohydrate, such as:
- 150–200ml of sugary cola or lemonade
- 200ml (a small carton) of fruit juice
- Glucose tablets or glucose juice
- Five jelly baby-sized sweets or four to five sugar lumps
Slower-Acting Carbohydrates
If your next meal is not soon, take 15–20g of slower-acting carbohydrate to prevent another dip in blood sugar, such as:
- A slice of bread
- An apple or a banana
- A cereal bar
Check Blood Glucose
Recheck blood glucose 10–15 minutes after treatment. If levels remain below 5.0 mmol/L (90 mg/dl), repeat the treatment.
Treating Severe Hypos: Seizures
During a seizure, do not give food or drink. Ensure the person is safe from injury, cushioning their head if needed. Seizures often pass within a few minutes, after which sugar can be taken. Call emergency services if a seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
Treating Severe Hypos: Unconsciousness or Unable to Take Sugar
If a person is unconscious or cannot take sugar, call an ambulance. If available, use a glucagon injection following instructions. Ensure fingers are clean before any blood testing to confirm glucose levels. Glucagon will not treat high blood sugar, so correct assessment is important.