Diabetes — a condition that affects millions of people worldwide — can sometimes lead to emergencies that require immediate attention. Knowing how to recognize and respond to these emergencies is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals with diabetes.
What is a diabetic emergency?
A diabetic emergency occurs when blood sugar levels fall too low (hypoglycemia) or rise too high (hyperglycemia). Both situations can have serious consequences if not addressed promptly.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia — also known as diabetic shock — occurs when blood sugar drops below normal levels, typically under 70 mg/dL. This can be caused by skipping meals, too much insulin or excessive physical activity. Symptoms can develop quickly, so recognizing them early is vital.
Signs of hypoglycemia:
- Sweating or shaking
- Rapid heartbeat
- Irritability or confusion
- Weakness or dizziness
- Pale skin
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty concentrating
What to do in a hypoglycemic emergency:
- Act quickly. If the person is conscious and able to swallow, offer a fast-acting carbohydrate, like:
- Four ounces of fruit juice or regular soda
- Three-to-four glucose tablets
- One tablespoon of honey or sugar
- Wait 15 minutes. After the person consumes the carbohydrate, wait for 15 minutes and recheck their blood sugar level if possible.
- Repeat if necessary. If their blood sugar is still low, provide another dose of fast-acting carbohydrate.
- Call for help. If the person becomes unresponsive or is unable to swallow, seek immediate medical assistance and consider administering glucagon if prescribed.
Hyperglycemia
Hyperglycemia happens when blood sugar levels rise too high, typically above 180 mg/dL after meals or over a longer period. This can occur due to factors like missed insulin doses, stress, illness or excessive carbohydrate intake.
Signs of hyperglycemia:
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst or dry mouth
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Blurred vision
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fruity-smelling breath (in severe cases)
- This may indicate diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a serious diabetes complication that occurs when the body lacks enough insulin to use glucose for energy, leading to a dangerous buildup of ketones in the blood.
What to do in a hyperglycemic emergency:
- Monitor blood sugar. Check the person’s blood sugar levels to confirm hyperglycemia.
- Administer insulin. If the person has been prescribed insulin, follow their usual routine to bring blood sugar levels down.
- Encourage fluids. Make sure they stay hydrated by drinking water or sugar-free beverages.
- Seek medical assistance. If blood sugar is extremely high or symptoms of DKA — like vomiting, confusion or rapid breathing — are present, seek emergency medical help immediately.
If left untreated, severe cases of both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia can induce a diabetic coma — a serious and potentially life-threatening state of unconsciousness.
Key tips for avoiding diabetic emergencies
While diabetic emergencies can happen despite careful monitoring, there are several ways to reduce the risk:
- Regular blood sugar monitoring: Check blood sugar levels regularly and adjust insulin or medication as needed.
- Follow a balanced diet: Maintain a consistent eating schedule with balanced meals to keep blood sugar levels stable.
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help regulate blood sugar; however, be sure to adjust insulin or meals accordingly.
- Know the symptoms: Recognize early signs of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia and take quick action.
Diabetic emergencies can be frightening, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can effectively recognize and respond to them. Whether it's a low or high blood sugar situation, knowing what steps to take can help avoid complications and keep individuals with diabetes safe. Always consult with a healthcare provider for specific instructions on managing diabetes, and always seek emergency medical help when necessary.
By staying informed and vigilant, you can ensure the health and safety of yourself or a loved one with diabetes, even during unexpected situations.