Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
What is Hypoglycemia?
Hypoglycemia is a blood glucose (blood sugar) level below normal. Sometimes called low blood sugar or insulin reaction. A person with diabetes taking insulin is at risk for hypoglycemia, usually when the blood glucose is less than 70 mg/dL. Check with your healthcare provider or diabetes educator for specific guidelines.
Common Causes
- Too much insulin
- More physical activity than usual
- Missed or late meals and snacks
Signs and Symptoms
| Shaking
|
Headache
|
| Sweaty
|
Irritable
|
| Hunger
|
Fast Heartbeat
|
| Weak
|
Anxious
|
| Dizzy
|
Blurry Vision
|
If having any of the above symptoms, test the blood glucose. If the blood glucose is less than 70 mg/dL or unable to test blood glucose and have symptoms of hypoglycemia, follow the treatment listed:
Treatment for Hypoglycemia
You need to treat hypoglycemia right a way. To treat take 15 grams of fast acting carbohydrate as soon as symptoms start such as one of the following:
- 4 oz. fruit juice
- 4 oz. regular soda pop
- 5-8 lifesavers
- 3-4 glucose tablets
- 3 packets of sugar
If treating a child, do not leave them alone. Re-test blood glucose in 15 minutes. Repeat the treatment if blood glucose is still low and re-test in 15 minutes. If your blood glucose continues to be low, call your healthcare provider or dial 911.
Hypoglycemia Emergency
If the blood glucose gets too low, it can cause a person to become unconscious (pass out) and / or have a seizure.
- Give Glucagon by injection. Glucagon is a hormone made by the body and is safe to administer. Follow your healthcare provider directions for administration and dosing. Call 911 after administering glucagon.
- If glucagon is not available, call 911 right away.
Safety Tips
- Wear diabetes identification
- Carry fast acting carbohydrate
- Test blood glucose regularly as directed by your healthcare provider or diabetes educator
- Educate friends, family, and others around you on signs, symptoms and treatment of hypoglycemia
Rev. 5/09
