Hypoglycemia is a condition in which your blood glucose levels, also known as blood sugar, fall too low. People suffering from hypoglycemia often suffer from chills, clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, a rapid heart rate, fatigue, blurred vision, headache and anxiety. The only treatment for hypoglycemia is to elevate the body's blood glucose levels. Glucose tablets, which are often similar to chewable or hard candies, and glucose gel, which is similar to sports energy gels, are two easy sources of glucose to quickly raise your blood glucose levels, according to "Mayo Clinic Essential Diabetes Book."
Step 1
Test your blood glucose levels with a blood glucose monitor. A reading of less than 70 mg/dL indicates hypoglycemia. The "Mayo Clinic Essential Diabetes Book" advises you to contact your physician immediately if your blood glucose levels are less than 55 mg/dL, as this indicates moderate to severe hypoglycemia.
Step 2
Insert the glucose tablet or glucose gel into your buccal cavity, which is the area of the inside of your cheek against your gums. According to "Foundations of Nursing," placing the glucose tablet or glucose gel in this part of your mouth will aid in rapid, systemic absorption.
Step 3
Retest your blood glucose levels 10 minutes after administering the glucose tablet or gel. If your blood glucose levels are greater than 70 mg/dL, "Foundations of Nursing" suggests eating a protein and carbohydrate dense snack, such as half a turkey sandwich on whole-wheat bread, to assist your body in maintaining its blood glucose levels. If your blood glucose levels have risen but are not greater than 70 mg/dL, "Mayo Clinic Essential Diabetes Book" advises you to administer another glucose tablet or gel and test your blood glucose again in 10 minutes. If your blood glucose levels are lower than they were when you initially checked, contact your physician immediately.
Things You'll Need
- Blood glucose meter
- Glucose tablets
- Glucose gel
References
- "Mayo Clinic Essential Diabetes Book"; Mayo Clinic; 2009
- "Foundations of Nursing"; Lois White, Gena Duncan and Wendy Baumle; 2010
- "Diabetes for Dummies"; Alan L. Rubin M.D.; 2008
