What to do if you suspect you have hypoglycemia?
Step 1. Check
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·
Confirm that your blood sugar level is less than 4 mmol/L.
·
If you do not have a blood glucose meter, skip to step 2.
Step 2. Treat
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· Take 15g of
quick-acting carbohydrate/sugar to raise your blood sugar level quickly. E.g.:
- 1 tablespoon (or 3 teaspoons) of sugar or
- ½ packet (125ml) of sweetened drink (not the "less sweet" variety) or
- ½ can of regular (non-diet) soft drink or
- 4 to 7 soft sweets (not sugar-free) or
- 3 glucose tablets.
Be prepared; always carry these quick-acting carbohydrates/sugar with you.
Avoid taking food that is high in fat such as chocolate bars. Fat slows down the movement of sugar into your blood.
Step 3. Re-check
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·
Recheck your blood sugar level 15 minutes later.
- If blood sugar level is still below 4 mmol/L, repeat Step 2.
·
When blood sugar is above 4 mmol/L, take a
slow-acting
carbohydrate. E.g.:
- 3 pieces of plain crackers or
- 1 cup of low fat milk (250ml)
Record all blood sugar readings and events for your healthcare team to note. Always look for the cause or trigger for the hypoglycaemia.
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