How to Treat a Low Blood Glucose
Do you or a loved one have diabetes? Are you yourself or do you know someone that is hypoglycemic (low blood sugar levels)? Here is how to treat it:
[edit] Steps
- Test your blood with a blood glucose meter using a lancet device and testing strips as directed by the manufacturer.
- Wait for the reading to occur on meter.
- If the number is below a normal range (typically 70-120) then proceed to step 4.
- Consume 15 fast-acting carbs (simple sugars). (These include things like regular soda, fruit juice, glucose tablets, candy, cake icing, etc.)
- Check your blood glucose again in 15 minutes using the same procedure as in steps 1 and 2.
- If your reading is still under normal range, repeat steps 4 and 5 until your blood glucose rises to normal range.
- Once your blood glucose is in normal range, and your next meal is not for another hour or so, eat a 15-30 carb snack.
[edit] Tips
- Make sure your meter and meter supplies are accurate, have not expired and are still of good use.
- While your blood glucose is low, try not to move around a lot as this could cause your blood glucose to drop lower.
- Ask someone who is close by to come and stay with you for a few minutes until your blood glucose is normal. This will reduce risk of injury.
- Remember the rule of 15; eat 15 carbs - check blood glucose in 15 minutes
- The state of low blood sugar is also referred to as low blood glucose, low blood count, and hypoglycemia.
[edit] Warnings
- Check with your doctor or endo for an evaluation of your normal blood glucose levels.
- Do not give solid or liquid foods, glucose tablets, or cake frosting of any kind to someone who is allergic or unconscious.
- If unconscious immediately call 911, an ambulance, or doctor. Administer glucagon if it is available.
- This advice was written by a diabetic not a professional.
[edit] Things You'll Need
- Blood Glucose Meter
- Lancet Device with lancet
- Blood glucose meter testing strips
- 15 carbs of fast acting sugar or glucose
- 15 complex carb snack










