How do you manage a diabetic emergency?

People with diabetes can experience emergencies when their blood sugar (also known as glucose) becomes too low or too high. If you have diabetes, it's important to know the signs and share this information with your family and friends, so they can help you respond quickly.

Types of diabetic emergencies

Blood sugar target levels are different for everyone. Your care team will help you understand what your numbers mean, when to reach out, and when it's time to take action.

Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia

What to do in a diabetic emergency

If you think you are experiencing a diabetic emergency, follow these steps:

• If you have a blood glucose meter, test your blood sugar.
• If your blood sugar reads low, try having some apple juice or sugar tablets. Call your doctor if it stays low.
• If your blood sugar reads high, take insulin (if prescribed), drink water, avoid sugar, and call your doctor if it stays high or you feel sick.

How to help someone having a diabetic emergency

Share this information with friends and loved ones so they know how to help in an emergency:

• Call 911 immediately if the person is experiencing chest pain, vomiting, trouble finding words, or slurred speech, or is fainting, unconscious, or unresponsive.
• If you’re not sure if their blood sugar is too high or too low, give them sugar. In cases of low blood sugar, fast-acting sugar can be lifesaving. If their sugar is actually high, a small amount of sugar is unlikely to cause harm.
• If they’re not fully alert or can’t swallow safely, don’t try to give drinks or food. Instead, use glucose gel if available. You can also use something like honey or cake frosting. Rub it on the inside of their cheek or along their gum line to help absorb the sugar safely.

Key takeaways

• Diabetic emergencies happen when blood sugar becomes too low (hypoglycemia) or too high (hyperglycemia). If you're not sure which one you're experiencing, test your blood sugar if possible, and treat accordingly.
• Call 911 immediately if someone is experiencing chest pain or trouble finding words, or is fainting, unconscious, or unresponsive. Share this information with family and friends so they know how to help.

We are here to help

Your Interwell Health Care Team can help you understand the types of diabetic emergencies, recognize the signs, and take steps before they become serious.

This serves only as a guide. Talk with your healthcare provider for more information based on your health needs.