Diabetics don’t produce insulin properly, which makes their blood glucose (sugar) levels higher. They need to regulate the amount of glucose in their body by medication or diet.

Many have a medical alert bracelet, necklet or warning card and carry sugar, lollies, glucose or a ready-made ‘Hypo’ pack in case of an emergency.

Signs and symptoms

Onset symptoms:

• Weakness, trembling or shaking

• Sweating; headache

• Light headedness

• Dizziness

• Lack of concentration

• Tearful/crying irritable

• Hunger

• Numbness around lips and fingers

Progressive symptoms:

• Loss of coordination

• Confusion

• Slurred speech

• Loss of consciousness

• Fitting

First aid

Conscious casualty:

• Make them comfortable

• If they can safely swallow, give high-energy foods, sugar or honey, or a glucose tablet

• The casualty will respond quickly if low blood sugar levels are the cause

• When they recover he/she may be a little confused

• Make sure they eat a normal meal immediately

Unconscious, drowsy or unable to swallow: THIS IS AN EMERGENCY

• Place them on their side, clear their airway and call an ambulance immediately (dial 000) stating a ‘diabetic emergency

• Do not give them any food or drink

• Wait with them until the ambulance arrives