What is a diabetic episode? Hypoglycemia is usually what is termed a “diabetic episode”. When blood sugars levels fall too low, it can cause a person to become confused, clumsy, or even faint. In more severe cases of hypoglycemia a person may have a seizure, fall into a coma, or even die. That is why it is important to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of a diabetic episode before the problem becomes too serious to control.

 

Signs of a Diabetic Episode

 

If the signs of a diabetic episode are realized quickly, it usually only takes sugar pills, some juice, or a little bit of sugar or honey to bring a person’s glucose levels back to normal. If a person begins to have a seizure or falls into a diabetic coma medical treatment may be required. If you notice signs of a diabetic episode in yourself or someone close to you the first step to be taken is to test blood sugar levels to see if they are truly too low. Then, if the person is in a hypoglycemic state, give them a quick fix food to raise their glucose level back up. The National Institutes of Health recommends the following “quick-fix” foods be given to bring blood sugar levels back up:

  • 3-4 glucose tablets
  • 1 serving of glucose gel that equals to 15 grams of carbohydrate
  • ½ cup of fruit juice – any type with sugar
  • ½ cup of any regular non-diet soft drink
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 5 or 6 pieces of candy
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey

 

After a quick-fix food is consumed, wait 15 minutes before checking blood sugar levels again. If blood sugar levels are still too low, another quick fix food should be eaten, and the process should be eaten until you get a normal reading. Once the person’s blood sugar level has returned to normal, a snack or meal should be eaten to keep it from falling again.

 

Diabetic Episode Symptoms

 

Signs and symptoms of a diabetic episode may vary from person to person. However, there are some general symptoms that people should know. It is important that any diabetic person inform those who are generally around them of what signs to look for so that they can help if needed. This usually includes family, friends, co-workers, and school staff. Symptoms of a diabetic episode are as follows:

  • Hunger
  • Shakiness
  • Nervousness
  • Sweating
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Sleepiness
  • Confusion
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Anxiety
  • Weakness
  • Crying out or having nightmares when sleeping
  • Feeling tired, irritable, and confused after awakening

 

A treatment plan should be made with household members. It is also wise for a diabetic to keep a glucagon emergency kit around. A glucagon emergency kit can usually be easily retrieved by asking your health care provider to prescribe it. Also, ask your health care provider when the right time to get medical help or call 911 is, and then provide this information to friends, family, etc. as well.