Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
ENGLISH
Low blood sugar, also called hypoglycemia, happens when the sugar in your blood drops too low, below 70. Sugar gives your body energy, so when your sugar is too low, it can cause problems and be very dangerous.
How to know when you have low blood sugar
It’s important to know the signs of low blood sugar. Some signs are feeling shaky, sweating, getting confused, feeling dizzy, changes in your vision, feeling strange or even getting really grumpy. If your blood sugar continues to drop it can get so low that it can cause you to pass out or have seizures. It can even be deadly. If you think you have low blood sugar it’s important to act fast.
What to do right away
If you think your blood sugar is low, check it with a glucose meter right away. If you can’t check your blood sugar but you feel like it is low, it’s safest to treat it like it is low. The treatment is to chew 3 - 4 glucose tablets, wait 15 minutes and check your blood sugar again. If it is still below 70 you should chew 3 - 4 more glucose tablets and wait another 15 minutes. You should continue doing this until your blood sugar is above 70. It is important to carry glucose tablets with you at all times in case this happens.
How to stop low blood sugar from happening
You need to regularly check your blood sugar with a glucose meter or a CGM so that you understand your blood sugar patterns. You also need to take your medication as directed and follow your diabetes meal plan so you are eating and drinking right to keep your blood sugar as steady as possible.
If you are having low blood sugars you need to talk with your doctor right away.
Knowing about low blood sugar and how to treat it can keep you safe and healthy.
Always ask your doctor for advice and help with your plan.