Severe Hypoglycemia - Diabetic Emergencies: Diabetes

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Severe hypoglycemia

Episodes of low blood sugar are not uncommon, and most are caught early, but if you don't notice the symptoms and your brain is deprived of sugar for an extended period, you could lose consciousness. This is a true emergency that leaves you unable to help yourself. That's why it's important for everyone with diabetes to wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace, or to carry a medical identification card with complete information. It's also imperative that relatives, friends, and colleagues know what to do in an emergency.

When a person with diabetes lapses into unconsciousness or becomes too confused to take treatment orally, the quickest remedy is an injection of glucagon, the hormone that raises blood sugar, or intravenous glucose. People with type 1 diabetes should always have up-to-date glucagon kits at home and at work for emergencies. Because glucagon must be mixed just before it's injected and the person with hypoglycemia will probably be unable to do it, make sure someone at home and work is trained to do so. If glucagon isn't administered, call a paramedic team immediately to administer intravenous glucose and take the person to the hospital. In general, never force an unconscious person to swallow solids or liquids.

Last updated:	January 23, 2007