When to worry about a seizure with hypoglycaemia

The brain needs a steady supply of glucose. As blood sugar falls, a person may become sweaty, shaky, hungry, irritable, dizzy, confused, unusually sleepy, or unable to respond normally. A seizure indicates severe brain dysfunction and may be followed by prolonged confusion.

Hypoglycaemia can happen with diabetes medicines, missed meals, vomiting, alcohol, or strenuous activity. It can also have other causes. A glucose reading and clinical assessment help identify the reason and prevent another episode.

Call emergency services for a seizure, unconsciousness, or inability to swallow safely. Place the person on their side, protect the head, clear nearby hazards, and check breathing. Use prescribed glucagon only if available and you have been taught how to use it.

Never put food, drink, glucose gel, or tablets into the mouth of someone who is drowsy, unconscious, or seizing. Once fully awake and able to swallow, follow their diabetes plan for fast-acting carbohydrate and recheck as instructed.

Emergency help is needed for any seizure linked with suspected low blood sugar, a person who cannot wake, repeated symptoms, injury, breathing difficulty, or symptoms that do not improve after the person becomes alert. Do not leave them alone afterward.

Arrange prompt review after an episode to assess medicines, meals, alcohol, activity, kidney or liver problems, and the possibility of another cause. Do not change prescribed diabetes treatment without medical advice.

What may have caused the low blood sugar? Should my medicine or meal plan change? Should I carry glucagon, who should be trained to use it, and what readings or symptoms should trigger urgent help?