Handling Diabetes Emergencies: Quick Response Guide

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What is a diabetic emergency?

Diabetes is a long-term medical condition where the body cannot produce enough insulin. Sometimes those who have diabetes may have a diabetic emergency, where their blood sugar level becomes too high or too low. Both conditions could be serious and may need treatment in hospital.

Are there different types of diabetic emergencies?

There are a few types of diabetic emergencies, and some conditions may increase the risk of a diabetic emergency. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) occurs when the body begins burning fat, instead of sugar, for fuel. This happens when there isn’t enough insulin to deliver sugar to cells for energy.

What should I do if I have a diabetic emergency?

If someone has a diabetic emergency, their blood sugar levels can become too low. This can make them collapse. Giving them something sugary will help raise their blood sugar levels and improve their bodily function. Avoid giving them a diet drink, as it won’t have any sugar in it and will not help them. 2. Reassure the person.

Where can I get first aid advice for a diabetic emergency?

Get first aid advice from St John Ambulance about a diabetic emergency, including the causes, symptoms and treatment options for high and low blood sugar.

What Is Diabetes Emergency

1. https://www.sja.org.uk/get-advice/first-aid-advice/diabetic-emergencies/diabetic-emergency/
2. https://www.diabetes.co.uk/emergencies.html
3. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317436
4. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/diabetes/
5. https://www.redcross.org.uk/first-aid/learn-first-aid/diabetic-emergency
6. https://www.verywellhealth.com/diabetic-emergencies-5176278
7. https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/diabetes-type-2/diagnosis/when-to-suspect-hyperglycaemic-emergencies-dka-hhs/
8. https://www.bmj.com/content/346/sbmj.f3825
9. https://www.accu-chek.co.uk/blog/diabetes-emergency
10. https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/diabetes-emergencies-what-to-do

Diabetes Emergency Information

1. https://www.inpatientdiabetes.org.uk/diabetes-emergencies-dka-hhs
2. https://www.england.nhs.uk/london/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2020/04/Covid-19-Management-of-diabetes-in-emergency-department-crib-sheet-updated-150420.pdf