Diabetes is the name for a condition suffered by a person whose body does not produce enough of the hormone insulin. Insulin reduces the amount of sugar in the blood. If diabetes goes untreated, sugar levels will climb dangerously high.
| Insulin Dependent
Type 1 |
Produces little or no insulin so has to inject themselves with insulin in order to keep sugar levels controlled. |
| Diet Controlled
Type 2 |
Still produces insulin naturally, so can control the condition by reducing the amount of sugar that they eat. |
| High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycaemia) | Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycaemia) | |
| Onset | Slow – 12-48 hours | Fast – 2minutes – 1 hour |
| Levels of Response | Slow deterioration
Drowsy, lethargic behavior Unconsciousness if left untreated |
Rapid deterioration
Weakness, dizziness Confusion, memory loss Lack of co-ordination, slurred speech Bizzare, uncharacteristic, potentially violent Unconsciousness within an hour |
| Skin | Dry and warm | Pale, cold and sweaty |
| Breathing | Deep sighing breaths | Normal, or shallow and rapid |
| Pulse | Rapid | Rapid |
So what can I do?
High Blood Sugar (Hyperglycaemia):
- Arrange for the person to attend A&E or a Doctor ASAP
- If the casualty becomes unconscious, call 999
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycaemia):
If they are conscious:
- Give them a sugary drink and some carbohydrate based food, like a sandwich (it is important to not just give a quick boost, but also a long term boost)
- If they have specialised ‘Glucose Gel’ assist them in taking it (rubbing into the gums and cheeks works well, rather than swallowing)
- Stay with the casualty and let them rest
- If there isn’t an improvement within 10-15 minutes consider calling 999
- Think! Is there another cause of these symptoms?
If they are unconscious:
- Open the airway and check for breathing
- Place the casualty in the recovery position
- Call 999 immediately
Want to know more? Attend a training course which covers this topic: |
| QA Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work (QCF) |
| QA Level 2 Award in Emergency First Aid At Work (QCF) |
Tell us your experiences below! |