TREATING HYPOGLYCAEMIA

Hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) occurs when blood glucose levels fall below 4 mmol/L. It is commonly referred to as a 'hypo'.

Although exercise lowers the blood glucose level, it will normally not cause hypoglycaemic episodes in otherwise healthy people.

Symptoms of hypoglycaemia

Hypoglycaemia can make you feel:

- tired
- pale
- clammy/sweaty
- weak/faint
- hungry
- agitated

Diabetes-Related Hypoglycaemia

  • If you think your blood glucose is low, check it and treat the problem right away.
  • To treat hypoglycaemia, have a serving of a quick-fix food, wait 15 minutes, and check your blood glucose. Repeat the treatment until your blood glucose is above 4 mmol/L.
  • Keep quick-fix foods in the car, at work—anywhere you spend time.
  • Be careful when you are driving. Check your blood glucose frequently and snack as needed to keep your level above 4 mmol/L.
Hypoglycaemia Unrelated to Diabetes
  • In reactive hypoglycaemia, symptoms occur within 4 hours of eating. People with this condition are usually advised to follow a healthy eating plan recommended by a registered dietitian.
  • Fasting hypoglycaemia can be caused by certain medications, critical illnesses, hereditary enzyme or hormonal deficiencies, and some kinds of tumours. Treatment targets the underlying problem.

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