What to Do During a Severe Hypoglycemia Event: An Emergency Plan

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a common complication for people with diabetes who take insulin or certain oral medications. While mild hypoglycemia can often be managed with quick-acting carbohydrates, a severe hypoglycemia event requires immediate intervention and an emergency plan. This article provides a detailed guide on what to do when someone experiences severe hypoglycemia to ensure their safety and well-being.

Understanding Severe Hypoglycemia

Severe hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop to a point where the individual is unable to treat themselves and requires assistance from someone else. This can manifest as:

• Confusion or disorientation
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Inability to swallow or cooperate

It's crucial to recognize these signs early and act swiftly.

Step-by-Step Emergency Plan

Here’s a structured approach to handling a severe hypoglycemia emergency:

1. Immediate Assessment and Action

• Check for Responsiveness: Try to gently wake the person. If they are unresponsive or only partially responsive, call for help immediately.
• Call Emergency Services: Dial your local emergency number (e.g., 911 in the US) immediately. Time is of the essence, as prolonged low blood sugar can be dangerous. Inform the dispatcher that the person is experiencing a severe hypoglycemic event.

2. Administering Glucagon

Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood sugar levels and is specifically designed for emergency situations like this. If you have access to a glucagon kit:

• Locate the Glucagon Kit: Know where the glucagon kit is stored and how to use it before an emergency occurs.
• Prepare the Injection: Follow the instructions provided in the glucagon kit. Typically, this involves mixing a powder with a liquid.
• Administer the Injection: Inject the glucagon into the thigh, arm, or buttock muscle. It can be injected through clothing if necessary.
• Turn the Person on Their Side: Once glucagon is administered, turn the person on their side in case they vomit. Vomiting is a common side effect of glucagon.

3. Post-Glucagon Monitoring

• Monitor Breathing and Responsiveness: Continue to monitor the person until emergency services arrive.
• Document the Event: Note the time glucagon was administered and any observations about the person’s condition. This information will be valuable for medical personnel.

4. If No Glucagon Is Available

If you do not have access to a glucagon kit:

• Do Not Attempt to Give Food or Drink: Since the person is unresponsive or partially responsive, do not attempt to give them anything by mouth as they could choke.
• Call Emergency Services Immediately: This step remains crucial.

5. Informing Emergency Responders

When emergency responders arrive:

• Provide a Detailed Account: Tell them about the person’s diabetes, any medications they are taking, and the steps you've already taken.
• Share Medical Information: If possible, provide any medical identification (e.g., medical alert bracelet or necklace) or a list of medications.

Preventative Measures and Education

The best approach to severe hypoglycemia is prevention.

• Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring: Consistent monitoring helps in identifying and addressing blood sugar fluctuations early on.
• Diabetes Education: Comprehensive diabetes education equips individuals and their families with the knowledge to manage the condition effectively.
• Adjusting Medication: Work closely with a healthcare provider to adjust medication dosages as needed to minimize the risk of low blood sugar.
• Diet and Exercise Management: A balanced diet and regular exercise routine are crucial for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
• Medical Alert Identification: Always wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace stating "I have diabetes" to alert others during an emergency.

Creating a Hypoglycemia Action Plan

Developing a personalized action plan can make all the difference in an emergency. Here’s what to include: Feeling Tired After Eating Your Blood Sugar Level Could Be The Cause

• Emergency Contacts: List names and phone numbers of family members, friends, or caregivers who should be contacted.
• Medical Information: Include the type of diabetes, medications, allergies, and any other relevant medical conditions.
• Glucagon Kit Location: Clearly state where the glucagon kit is stored.
• Instructions for Administering Glucagon: Include step-by-step instructions and perhaps a video demonstration.

Understanding the Role of Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) play a crucial role in preventing severe hypoglycemia. These devices track blood sugar levels in real-time and can alert the user when blood sugar is dropping too low. Understanding Your A1C Test What Do The Numbers Really Mean

• Real-Time Monitoring: CGMs provide continuous data, allowing for proactive adjustments to insulin dosages, meals, or activity levels.
• Alerts and Alarms: CGMs can be set to alert the user when blood sugar levels are trending low, providing an opportunity to take corrective action before a severe event occurs.
• Data Sharing: Many CGMs allow data to be shared with healthcare providers and family members, enabling better monitoring and support.

Addressing Common Misconceptions

• Myth: Giving insulin will help during a hypoglycemic event.
  • Fact: Insulin lowers blood sugar. Giving insulin during hypoglycemia will worsen the situation.
• Myth: Any sugary food or drink will work in an emergency.
  • Fact: When a person is unresponsive, they cannot safely swallow. Glucagon is necessary in these instances.

Summarizing the Action Steps

Here is a quick summary table of actions to take during severe hypoglycemia:

Conclusion

A severe hypoglycemia event can be frightening, but being prepared with a clear action plan can make a significant difference. Educate yourself, your family, and your friends about diabetes, low blood sugar, and the importance of glucagon. By taking proactive steps, you can minimize the risk and ensure a swift and effective response during an emergency. Staying vigilant and informed is the best defense against severe hypoglycemia. Simple Habits To Achieve Better Control Of Your Blood Sugar Levels