Insulin-dependent diabetics are susceptible to occasional hypoglycemic episodes. Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop to unusually low levels, below 70 mg/dl for most diabetics. In the event that you calculate excessive insulin dosage, underestimate your carbs or simply fall below your target blood glucose range, rapid action is essential to your health. Low blood sugar can ultimately lead to unconsciousness or seizures. Know how and when to use a rapid-acting glucose gel to protect yourself from the dangerous effects of sudden hypoglycemia.
Description
Glucose gel is concentrated, rapid-absorbing glucose designed to treat low blood sugar. Gels are designed to absorb quickly, reach the bloodstream and raise blood glucose levels in minutes to help a diabetic rebound from a hypoglycemic episode. Typically, glucose gel is used as an alternative when fruit juice, soda, hard candy and other simple sugars are unavailable.
Dosage
When you experience severely low blood sugar, the American Diabetes Association recommends the rule of 15: Eat 15 g of rapid-acting carbohydrates, wait 15 minutes, then retest. Repeat this process as many times as needed for your blood sugar results to reach your target range. Glucose gel tubes are measured in 15 g carbohydrate dosages. Eat one full tube of glucose gel, wait 15 minutes, then test your blood sugar again. If your blood sugar is still too low, repeat the process with a second glucose gel tube.
Symptoms
Paying attention to how you feel and the changes in your own body are the first line of detection for a hypoglycemic episode. Every individual reacts differently to blood sugar lows and once you learn your body's cues, you will be able to identify a low coming before it becomes severe. Some diabetics report feeling shaky, weak, confused or agitated. Other symptoms include an increase in your body temperature, sweating, confusion, inability to focus and clumsy movements. Treat lows at these stages to avoid possible seizures, loss of consciousness or coma.
Be Prepared
Keep two tubes of glucose gel or tablets with your meter and the rest of the supplies that you keep with you at all times. If you do not carry your meter, keep some in your desk at work, beside your bed and in your car. Anytime you suspect low blood sugar, test right away. It is important to know what your blood sugar level is before you treat a low, just in case you are misreading your symptoms. If you are unable to test and feel as though your blood sugar is falling low, treat it to be safe.
