Insulin reaction - Hypoglycaemia An insulin reaction is an emergency, and it needs prompt recognition and proper attention. The
patient and everyone in his or her family must learn the symptoms of insulin reaction and what to do about it. The warning signs of an insulin reaction include:
- Irritability
- Sweating
- Paleness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Extreme hunger
- Weakness
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- Faintness
- Inability to concentrate
- Blurred vision
- Loss of coordination
- Mental confusion
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Some people get:
- headaches,
- feel nauseous,
- cry during a reaction, or,
Because of the patient's confusion and unsteadiness, it is easy for strangers to think that a diabetic having an insulin reaction is drunk or on drugs. This is one reason it is wise for a
patient to wear a medical identification bracelet and carry a wallet card that identifies him or her as a diabetic. You feel:
- Nervous
- Sweating
- Tingling
- Unsteady
- Heart beats fast
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Sugar lumps for emergency |
The most important thing a diabetic can do during a reaction is to eat something to counteract
the low blood sugar. A glass of milk or orange juice or even swallowing a packet of plain white sugar work well for most people. A diabetic who uses insulin must always carry a supply of
quickacting sugar -- such as candy, sugar packets or special glucose tablets -- at all times to use during an insulin reaction. Hypoglycaemic coma
If the reaction is not treated, unconsciousness sets in quickly, and two things can be done. A drug called glucagon, if readily available, can be injected into the buttock. Glucagon is another
hormone created by the pancreas and it raises bloodsugar levels. If glucagon is not available, a fingerfull of honey, maple syrup or corn syrup can be rubbed on the inside of the
unconscious person's cheek. If the person does not respond, an ambulance should be called immediately. After recovering from an insulin reaction, the person should eat something that is digested
slowly, such as a sandwich or a piece of fruit. This will prevent the high insulin levels from causing another insulin reaction after the sugar or glucagon has worn off.
Preventing insulin reactions is as important as knowing how to treat them. People who test their bloodglucose levels several times a day usually don't have reactions because they give
themselves appropriate amounts of insulin or eat a snack to avoid them. A diabetic may find it necessary to eat a snack at certain times of the day to prevent reactions.
He or she may need extra carbohydrates before exercising and will learn from experience how much is needed. Eating a snack before bedtime is also wise to prevent nighttime insulin reactions.
After a hypoglycaemic reaction always ask why?
- too much insulin?
- not enough food?
- missed a meal?
- too much exercise?
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