The Sweet and Sour of Emergencies: Managing Diabetic Crises
At Ready 4 Everything Training and Supplies, we understand that emergencies aren't always visible injuries. Sometimes, they're internal, affecting how the body functions. Diabetic emergencies are a prime example. Diabetes is a common chronic condition, and while many manage it effectively, imbalances can occur, leading to a sudden crisis. Knowing how to recognize the signs and provide immediate first aid can prevent severe complications, protect vital organs, and ensure the person receives the care they need.
Understanding Diabetes and Blood Sugar Imbalances
Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body struggles to process glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream. Glucose is our body's primary energy source, and insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps move glucose from the blood into our cells.
A diabetic emergency happens when blood glucose levels fluctuate outside the normal range, leading to two main types of crises :
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): This occurs when insulin levels are too high relative to the sugar in the blood, causing blood sugar to drop quickly. The brain, in particular, needs a steady supply of sugar to function properly. Hypoglycemia develops rapidly and is the cause of most diabetic emergencies, often leading to a condition called insulin shock.
Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar): This occurs when insulin levels are too low, leading to elevated blood sugar. It can result from eating too much, taking too little medication, or stress. Hyperglycemia develops slowly and is less likely to be a first aid emergency, but can lead to a diabetic coma if untreated.
First aid for both conditions is generally the same: providing sugar.
Recognizing the Signs of a Diabetic Emergency
The signs and symptoms of a diabetic emergency can be varied and sometimes mimic other conditions, like intoxication. It's important to look for a combination of these indicators:
Changes in Level of Responsiveness: The person may be confused, disoriented, or even unresponsive.
Changes in Behavior: They might seem irritable, aggressive, or unusually quiet.
Rapid Breathing: Breathing may become fast and shallow.
Skin Changes: Skin may be cool and sweaty, or paler than normal.
Appearance of Intoxication: Slurred speech or difficulty walking can be present.
Feeling Ill: General malaise, nausea, or vomiting.
Seizures: In severe cases, seizures can occur.
If you notice these signs, especially if the person has a known history of diabetes, act quickly.
What to Do: The "Sugar First" Approach
The most crucial step in a diabetic emergency is to provide sugar, if the person is able to swallow safely. Even if you're unsure whether it's high or low blood sugar, giving 15 to 20 grams of sugar will not cause additional harm in cases of hyperglycemia and can be life-saving for hypoglycemia.
Offer Sugar (if responsive and able to swallow): If the person can follow simple commands, answer questions, and swallow safely, offer 15 to 20 grams of sugar. Preferred forms include:
Oral glucose tablets
Chewable candy
Fruit juice
Fruit strips
Milk
Other forms like a non-diet soft drink or a spoonful of sugar mixed into water
Monitor for 10 Minutes: After giving sugar, monitor the person's condition for 10 minutes.
If their condition deteriorates or doesn't improve, call EMS/911 immediately and administer more sugar if still safe to do so.
If their condition improves, recommend they eat a complete meal.
Call EMS/911 Immediately if:
You are unable to give the person sugar.
The person is not fully awake or becomes unresponsive.
The person has a seizure.
Their condition does not improve within 10 minutes of having sugar.
If the person is unresponsive, ensure EMS is called and place them in the recovery position.
Important Note: Never give insulin to someone experiencing a diabetic emergency. Only a medical professional can diagnose the cause and determine if insulin is the correct treatment.
By being prepared to recognize and respond to diabetic emergencies, you can provide critical support that stabilizes the situation until professional medical help arrives. Ready 4 Everything Training and Supplies is committed to building safer, more confident communities, one life-saving skill at a time.
Action Item:
For organizations seeking to enhance their emergency response capabilities and ensure regulatory compliance, sign up for first aid courses for their organization. Our comprehensive training includes vital modules on managing sudden medical emergencies like diabetic crises, empowering your team to act with confidence.
