How to Treat a low blood glucose

Hypoglycemia is a condition that occurs when there is too much insulin and not enough glucose (sugar) in the blood. This condition is most common in diabetics, particularly those taking insulin. Poor eating habits, mismanagement of diabetes medications and alcohol consumption can cause hypoglycemia in a diabetic. When blood glucose levels get too low, the body releases adrenaline in an attempt to get reserve supplies of glucose into the system. This adrenaline release can cause shakiness, irritability and rapid heart beat. Other symptoms include loss of coordination, loss of motor skills, loss of consciousness, dizziness, weakness, headache, confusion and seizures. Treatment of acute hypoglycemia is very simple, but must be monitored closely. Read on to learn how to treat a low blood glucose level.

Things You'll Need

• Blood sugar test kit
• Candy
• Fruit juice
• Regular soda
• Pure sugar or jelly
• Glucose tablets
• Glucagon injection

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Instructions

• 1

  Using the blood sugar test kit, check blood glucose levels. If the meter indicates a blood glucose level below 70 mg/dl, it is too low.

• 2

  Eat or drink something with a high sugar content such as candy, cake frosting, fruit juice, regular soda (nothing diet), 1 tbsp. of pure sugar or jelly or three glucose tablets.

• 3

  Wait 15 to 20 minutes and test blood sugar again.

• 4

  If blood glucose levels are still too low, repeat Step 2.

• 5

  If person is lethargic or unconscious, glycogen should be given through injection. Know that 10 to 15 minutes after receiving the injection, the person should show significant signs of improvement. This includes awakening, if they had been lethargic or unconscious. At this point, administer sugar orally and contact a health care professional.

• 6

  Make an appointment with the doctor to discuss bouts of hypoglycemia and how to best control or prevent them.