In the case of hypoglycaemia it is very important to quickly increase the blood sugar level. So, a great way is to give the person about 15 grams of simple carbohydrates for quick absorption.
Some options of what can be given are:
- 1 tablespoon of sugar or 2 packets of sugar under the tongue, 1 tablespoon of honey, drink 1 glass of fruit juice, suck 3 candies or eat 1 sweet bread;
After 15 minutes, the blood glucose should be evaluated again and, if it is still low, the process should be repeated again. If the sugar level still does not improve, you should quickly go to the hospital or call an ambulance by calling 192.
What to do in case of severe hypoglycemia
When hypoglycemia is very severe, the person will pass out and may even stop breathing. In such cases, an ambulance should be called immediately, and if the person stops breathing, cardiac massage should be started until the medical team arrives to keep the blood flowing.
See step-by-step instructions on how to do cardiac massage, in case you need it.
How to know if it is hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia happens when the sugar level is below 70 mg / dL, which usually happens after taking the wrong dose of insulin, going for a long time without eating or having done a very intense physical activity, for example.
Sometimes, even without having done the research of capillary glycemia, the person can present some symptoms, which lead to suspect of a hypoglycemia crisis. Some of these signs are:
- Uncontrollable tremor; Sudden anxiety for no apparent reason; Cold sweats; Confusion; Dizziness; Difficulty seeing; Difficulty concentrating.
In a more serious situation, the person may even faint or have an epileptic seizure. At this point, if the person has not stopped breathing, you should put them in a lateral safety position and call for medical help. See how to lay the person in a lateral safety position.
Hypoglycemia is not the only emergency problem that can happen to a diabetic. Check out a short first aid guide for diabetics to avoid serious complications.
