High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) may develop slowly over a period of hours or days.

If it is not treated, hyperglycemia will result in unconsciousness (diabetic coma) and therefore requires urgent treatment in the hospital.

Those who suffer from hyperglycemia may wear warning bracelets, cards, or medallions alerting a first aider to the condition.

1. Call Emergency Services

Tell dispatcher that you suspect hyperglycemia.

2. Monitor & Record Vital Signs

Level of response, breathing, and pulse—while waiting for help to arrive.

Your Aim

To arrange urgent removal to the hospital.

This condition occurs when the blood sugar level falls below normal. It is characterized by a rapidly deteriorating level of response.

Hypoglycemia develops if the insulin–sugar balance is incorrect; for example, when a person with diabetes misses a meal or does too much exercise. It is common in a person with newly diagnosed diabetes while he is learning to balance sugar levels. More rarely, hypoglycemia may develop following an epileptic seizure  or after an episode of binge drinking.

People with diabetes may carry their own blood-testing kits to check their blood sugar levels, as well as their insulin medication, so they are well prepared for emergencies; for example, many carry sugar, candy, or a tube of glucose gel. If the hypoglycemic attack is at an advanced stage, consciousness may be impaired and you must seek emergency help.

1. Help the casualty sit down.

If he has his own glucose gel or tablets, help him take it. If not, give him the equivalent of 10 g of glucose—for example, an 8 oz glass of nondiet carbonated beverage or fruit juice, two teaspoons of sugar (or two lumps of sugar), or
sugary candy such as hard candies.

2. If the casualty responds quickly,

Give him more food or drink and let him rest until he feels better. Help him find his glucose testing kit so that he can check his glucose level. Monitor him until he is
completely recovered.

3. If the casualty’s condition does not improve,

Look for other possible causes. Call for emergency help and monitor and record vital signs—level of response, breathing, and pulse while waiting for help to arrive.

Your Aim

To raise the sugar content of the blood as quickly as possible

To obtain appropriate medical help