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Diabetes

Managing Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is a concern for people with diabetes. Diabetes medication increases the risk to have low blood sugars and those who take insulin are at the greatest risk for low blood sugars.

Be Prepared

The person having a low blood sugar will notice sudden symptoms such as feeling shaky, light headed, dizzy, sweaty, or unable to focus or concentrate. Since these symptoms occur without warning, everyone should always carry something with them to eat or drink to bring the blood sugar up quickly. 15 grams of carbohydrate is the right amount. The best things to carry are things that are fast-acting like:

  • Glucose Tablets 
  • Hard candy like Life Savers, peppermints, Skittles, Starbursts
  • 4 oz. Juice Boxes
  • Tiny boxes or 2 tablespoons of raisins

Activities like driving, operating machinery or caring for small children are dangerous with low blood sugars. It’s always best to be prepared, just in case.

In a medical emergency, call 911.