Low blood sugar with type 2 diabetes

The risk is higher when insulin or certain glucose-lowering tablets have more effect than your body needs at that moment. Delaying a meal, exercising more than planned, drinking alcohol or being unwell can contribute. Early signs may include shaking, sweating, hunger, dizziness, irritability, nausea or weakness. If glucose continues to fall, concentration and behaviour can change.

A low reading is not the same as a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. People with either type can experience low blood sugar, depending on treatment and circumstances. Repeated episodes deserve review because warning symptoms may become harder to notice.

If you are awake and able to swallow, follow your clinician's treatment plan for a fast-acting carbohydrate, then recheck as instructed and eat a sustaining snack or meal if needed. Do not drive while symptoms are present. Keep treatment nearby and tell family or colleagues what to do. Never give food or drink to someone who is drowsy, having a seizure or unable to swallow.

Call emergency services if the person is unconscious, having a seizure, severely confused or cannot swallow. Place them safely on their side and do not put anything in their mouth. Get urgent clinical advice when episodes recur, happen during sleep or do not improve with the agreed treatment.

Ask which medicine may be contributing, how to treat an episode, whether your meal or activity plan needs changing, and whether family members should learn emergency steps.