MHL Glucose is carried through the bloodstream and your body uses it for energy. Hypoglycaemia happens when your blood glucose levels become too low and drop below 4mmol/L. This occurs often in people with type-2 diabetes who are managed on insulin or tablets that make your body produce more insulin. An episode of hypo can range from being a mild annoyance to becoming a dangerous situation such as when someone is driving a vehicle.
Early signs of a Hypo:
- Sweating heavily
- Feeling anxious
- Becoming pale
- Hunger
- Trembling or shaking
- Palpitations
- Tingling of the lips
- Hunger
- Poor concentration
Causes of Hypo:
- Mismatch between the food you eat and your medication
- Delaying or missing meals
- Strenuous physical activity
- Drinking too much alcohol or drinking alcohol on an empty stomach
How to treat Hypo?
When you spot the early signs, you should treat it immediately with something that will raise your blood sugar quickly. Some of the quick acting glucose treatments that can provide you with 15g to 20g of carbohydrates are:
- A small carton of orange juice (200ml)
- 5 glucotabs
- 6 Dextrose tablets
- A banana
If after 15 minutes, you are still not feeling better and your blood glucose levels are still below 4mmol/L, you just have to repeat one of these quick acting glucose treatments.
Key messages:
- Learn what your hypo signs are
- Learn what your triggers are
- What treatment works best for you during an episode of hypo
- Always carry your hypo kit with you especially when driving
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