Diabetes UK hypoglycaemia: what to know

Early symptoms can include sweating, shaking, dizziness, irritability, nausea, hunger, weakness, blurred vision, or difficulty concentrating. A low may follow too much diabetes medicine, delayed or missed food, more physical activity than usual, or alcohol. People using insulin or some glucose-lowering medicines are particularly vulnerable. Symptoms can progress to confusion, seizure, or loss of consciousness, so treat them promptly rather than waiting for them to become severe.

If you can swallow safely, check your glucose if possible and take a quick source of carbohydrate according to your personal plan. Recheck as advised, then eat a longer-lasting snack or meal when recovered. Do not drive while symptoms remain or until your glucose has returned to a safe level. If the person is confused, unconscious, or unable to swallow, do not give food or drink; place them safely on their side and call emergency services. Use prescribed rescue treatment only as trained.

Emergency help is needed for loss of consciousness, a seizure, inability to swallow, severe confusion, or a low that does not improve with the agreed plan. Arrange a diabetes review after repeated episodes, episodes during sleep, or a low without warning symptoms. Do not change medicine doses without advice.

Which symptoms should prompt me to check glucose? What treatment should I carry? Should someone close to me learn rescue treatment? Could my medicines, meals, activity, or alcohol be contributing?