What to Do When Your Blood Sugar Drops
Diabetic comas can happen when the blood sugar drops quickly. Each person reacts differently, but unhealthy blood sugar levels are 40 milligrams per deciliter for women and 50 milligrams per deciliter for men. Diabetic comas can cause brain damage and lead to death.
Normal Levels
A normal blood sugar level is 70 to 100. For diabetics, the range is broader, usually 70 to 120.
Symptoms
Symptoms occur when sugar levels drop below 70. Symptoms are shakiness, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, sweat, irritability and weakness.
Treatment
Diabetics should act quickly when they feel symptoms. Taking 15 grams of carbohydrates and waiting 15 minutes to see if the blood sugar level increases to 70 are the first steps. The next step is to repeat the 15 grams again. Possible foods include half a cup of juice or regular soda, one tablespoon of sugar or honey, two tablespoons of raisins, or three to four glucose tablets.
Warning
Type 1 diabetics, especially, may pass out if their blood sugar levels drop below 40 or drops rapidly. Severe hypoglycemia involving loss of consciousness is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention, usually an injection of glucagon.
Prevention/Solution
Eating at regular times and taking prescribed medication helps prevent low blood sugar. Testing your blood sugar at regular intervals helps diabetics control their blood sugar. A diabetic who experiences frequent lows should report this information to her doctor.
Expert Insight
Diabetics should always carry glucose tablets or other foods for emergencies. Type 1 diabetics or people who are prone to severe low blood sugar should carry a glucagon kit.
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