“Hypoglycemia is a medical condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels, typically below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L). It most commonly affects individuals with diabetes, particularly those who use insulin or certain medications to manage their blood sugar levels. However, it can also occur in individuals without diabetes under specific circumstances.”
If someone is experiencing a diabetic emergency due to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent the situation from worsening. Here are the steps to provide first aid for someone with hypoglycemia:
Providing First Aid:
Recognize the signs of hypoglycemia: The symptoms of hypoglycemia can vary but may include trembling, sweating, confusion, irritability, dizziness, weakness, rapid heartbeat, and changes in behavior or consciousness.
Check for medical identification: If the person has a medical identification bracelet or necklace indicating that they have diabetes, it may also indicate that they are at risk for hypoglycemia.
Offer sugar or fast-acting carbohydrates: If the person is conscious and able to swallow, provide them with a sugary drink or fast-acting carbohydrates. Good options include:
Fruit juice (e.g., orange juice)
Regular soda (not diet)
Glucose tablets or gel (if available)
Honey or sugar mixed in water
Avoid sugary foods: Avoid giving the person sugary foods like chocolate, as they contain fat that can slow the absorption of sugar. Pure sugar sources are best in this situation.
Wait for improvement: After giving the sugary drink or fast-acting carbohydrate, wait for about 10-15 minutes to see if the person’s condition improves. If they do not show signs of improvement, or if they lose consciousness, seek immediate medical assistance.
Recheck blood sugar levels: If the person has a glucometer available, check their blood sugar levels to monitor their response to treatment.
Provide long-acting carbohydrates: Once the person’s blood sugar levels have improved, give them a snack containing long-acting carbohydrates to help maintain blood sugar levels. Good options include crackers, bread, or a small piece of fruit.
Seek medical help if necessary: If the person doesn’t improve after the initial treatment or if they lose consciousness, call for emergency medical assistance immediately.
Things not to do:
Avoid giving insulin: If the person is conscious and experiencing hypoglycemia, never give them insulin as it will further lower their blood sugar levels.
Do not force-feed: If the person is unconscious or unable to swallow, avoid attempting to force them to eat or drink anything, as this could lead to choking.
Don’t delay seeking medical help: If the person’s condition does not improve after the initial treatment or if they lose consciousness, do not hesitate to call for emergency medical assistance. Time is critical in such situations.
Avoid using foods with fat: Foods high in fat, like chocolate, can slow down the absorption of sugar and delay the person’s recovery. Stick to fast-acting carbohydrates for initial treatment.
Do not assume the person is drunk: Some symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as confusion and altered behavior, might be mistaken for drunkenness. Be cautious not to make assumptions and try to help the person appropriately.
Don’t dismiss their symptoms: Even if the person with diabetes insists they are fine, do not ignore symptoms of hypoglycemia. Low blood sugar can impair judgment, and they might not be aware of their condition’s seriousness.
Avoid leaving the person alone: If possible, stay with the person or ensure someone responsible remains with them until their condition improves or medical help arrives.
Do not administer oral substances to an unconscious person: If the person is unconscious, do not try to give them anything by mouth, as it may lead to choking. Focus on calling for emergency medical help.
Avoid unnecessary physical activity: If the person is conscious but weak due to low blood sugar, avoid unnecessary physical activity until their condition stabilizes.
Conclusion:
when dealing with a diabetic emergency caused by hypoglycemia, promptly provide fast-acting carbohydrates to the conscious person, avoid giving insulin, and never force-feed an unconscious individual. Seek immediate medical assistance if the person’s condition does not improve or if they lose consciousness. Prioritize the individual’s safety and well-being throughout the process.