O MeA e tAtAU OnA e IlOA - Australian Diabetes Council

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Short Term Complications –
Hypoglycaemia
Hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose levels)
Hypoglycaemia is when the blood glucose (sugar) level drops below 4 mmol/L. It can
happen very quickly.
Hypoglycaemia can occur in people who take certain oral diabetes
medication or use insulin.
Ask your doctor or health care team if this applies to you.
It is essential to know how to recognise the signs and symptoms of
having low blood glucose (sugar) and how to treat it.
Blood glucose levels can be low because of:
• Delayed or missed meals
• Not enough carbohydrate in the meal
• Extra activity or more strenuous activity
• Too much diabetes medication
• Alcohol.
Signs and Symptoms
These can vary from person to person and may include:
• Dizziness/light headedness
• Sweating
• Headache
• Weakness, shaking
• Tingling around the lips and fingers
• Hunger
• Mood changes, irritable/tearful
• Confusion/lack of concentration.
If you feel any of these signs and symptoms, test your blood glucose level if possible.
Treatment for low blood glucose levels (hypos) in a person who is conscious,
cooperative and able to swallow.
If you are unable to test, treat anyway.
Treatment for low blood glucose levels (Hypos).
Step 1
Take quickly absorbed carbohydrate such as:
• Half a glass of juice OR
• 6 to 7 jellybeans OR
• Half a can of regular (not diet) soft drink OR
• 3 teaspoons of sugar OR honey
Retest the blood glucose level after 10 - 15 minutes.
If still below 4 mmol/L repeat Step 1.
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