When blood glucose levels are too high or too low for prolonged periods of time, a diabetic seizure can occur. This is a serious complication of diabetes. Therefore, knowledge must be attained by both the diabetic and those likely to be around if something goes wrong. Patients and caregivers should also recognize the steps necessary to avoid complications such as these.
What is a Diabetic Seizure?
A diabetic seizure is caused by blood sugar being too high or too low. Irregular blood sugar levels can have the same effect. So, it is recommended to keep you blood sugar as stable and consistent as possible. One of the major differences between diabetic seizures and other forms of seizures is that the same blood sugar problems which cause the seizure can also cause the diabetic to slip into a coma (DiabeticLive.com, 2011).
Although it can occur at any time, diabetic seizures often occur at night when blood sugar commonly becomes too low. It usually happens as a result of a person taking too much insulin, exercises vigorously, skips meals, or drinks too much alcohol. It can also be a result of taking medications that cause the pancreas to release more insulin.
Diabetic Seizure Symptoms
A person who is having a diabetic seizure often seem drunk, with slurred speech and loss of motor coordination. Initially a diabetic will feel cold or clammy, yet sweaty at the same time. Shakiness and feeling faint, sleepy or confused are often symptoms of a diabetic seizure. Other signs may include a feeling of anxiousness, muscle weakness, or loss of muscle control. People who are about to experience a diabetic seizure may also lose the ability to speak clearly, have changes in vision, or even hallucinate. Unexplained emotional behaviors like crying without control may also be an indication that a seizure is about to occur (Livestrong.com, 2012).
Diabetic Seizure: What to Do?
Sometimes diabetic seizures only last a few moments, others continue until medical help is received. One of the biggest dangers is someone injuring themselves during violent convulsions or passing out and falling down. When someone shows sign that they may have a diabetic seizure, medical help should be sought immediately. The blood sugar of the diabetic should be tested. If it is too low, putting honey or syrup inside the gums helps. It is best to keep glucose injections in the home for emergencies such as this. If blood sugar is too high, and insulin shot can be given to lower it (eHow.com, 2011).
Attempting to feed someone with a diabetic seizure could cause them to choke. Also, you should not attempt to administer insulin if you do not know what you are doing. If you do not know what to do, just stay calm, and try to keep the diabetic from injuring themselves until help arrives.
