First Aid for Diabetic Emergencies

Diabetes affects millions of people worldwide, and while many manage their condition daily, emergencies can still happen—sometimes suddenly and without warning. Whether it’s a low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) episode or dangerously high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), knowing how to recognize and respond to diabetic emergencies can save a life.

Understanding Diabetic Emergencies

1. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar):

Occurs when blood sugar drops too low, often below 70 mg/dL. It can happen if someone skips meals, exercises too much, or takes too much insulin.

Symptoms include:

• Shaking or trembling

  
  

• Sweating

  
  

• Confusion or irritability

  
  

• Dizziness or weakness

  
  

• Hunger

  
  

• Blurred vision

  
  

• In severe cases, seizures or unconsciousness

  
  

2. Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar):

Happens when blood sugar rises too high, often due to illness, missed insulin, or eating too much sugar.

Symptoms include:

• Frequent urination

  
  

• Extreme thirst

  
  

• Fatigue

  
  

• Nausea or vomiting

  
  

• Fruity-smelling breath

  
  

• Confusion

  
  

• Rapid breathing

  
  

If untreated, hyperglycemia can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a medical emergency.

How to Respond to Hypoglycemia

1. Recognize the signs quickly.

   
   

2. Give fast-acting sugar immediately:

   
   

   • Glucose tablets or gel

     
     

   • Fruit juice or regular soda (about 4 ounces)

     
     

   • Candy or honey

     
     

3. Wait 15 minutes and recheck blood sugar if possible.

   
   

4. Repeat sugar intake if symptoms persist and blood sugar remains low.

   
   

5. Once stable, give a snack with protein or complex carbs to maintain blood sugar.

   
   

6. If the person becomes unconscious or can’t swallow, call 911 immediately.

   
   

   • Do not give anything by mouth.

     
     

   • If trained and available, administer glucagon injection.

     
     

How to Respond to Hyperglycemia

1. Encourage the person to check their blood sugar and ketones if possible.

   
   

2. If blood sugar is high, help them drink water to stay hydrated.

   
   

3. Seek medical help if:

   
   

   • They have nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain

     
     

   • Breath smells fruity

     
     

   • They are confused or lethargic

     
     

   • They have difficulty breathing

     
     

4. Do not try to lower blood sugar quickly on your own. Medical professionals will provide the right treatment.

   
   

What to Keep in Your Emergency Kit

• Glucose tablets or gel

  
  

• Fast-acting sugar sources (juice boxes, candy)

  
  

• Glucagon emergency kit (if prescribed)

  
  

• Blood glucose meter and test strips

  
  

• Contact info for their healthcare provider

  
  

Important Tips

• Always ask about the person’s diabetes care plan and medications.

  
  

• Know the difference between low and high blood sugar symptoms.

  
  

• Stay with the person until they recover or help arrives.

  
  

• When in doubt, call 911.

  
  

Conclusion 

Diabetic emergencies can be frightening, but your knowledge and quick action can prevent complications. If you live with or care for someone with diabetes, consider taking a CPR and First Aid course focused on diabetic emergencies and other health crises.