A diabetic emergency occurs when there is a severe imbalance between the amount of insulin and sugar in the body.
Two conditions may result in a diabetic emergency:
- Not enough insulin, causing a high level of sugar or hyperglycemia. This could lead to diabetic coma.
This may be caused by:- not taking enough insulin
- eating too much food
- doing less exercise than usual
- Too much insulin, causing a low level of sugar or hypoglycemia. This may lead to insulin shock.
This may be caused by:- taking too much insulin
- not eating enough food or vomiting
- doing more exercise than usual
How to recognize a diabetic emergency
A conscious casualty with diabetes might be able to tell you what is wrong. However, keep in mind that the person may be confused.
An unconscious casualty may be wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace that will tell you that he/she has diabetes.
If the casualty cannot tell you what he/she needs, look for the following signs & symptoms:
| Sign/Symptom | Insulin Shock (needs sugar) | Diabetic Coma (needs insulin) |
|---|---|---|
| Pulse | Strong and Rapid | Weak and Rapid |
| Breathing | Shallow | Deep and Sighing |
| Skin | Pale and Sweating | Flushed, Dry and Warm |
| Breath Odor | Odourless | Like Musty Apple or Nail Polish |
| LOC | Faintness to Unconsciousness Developing Quickly | Gradual Onset of Unconsciousness |
| Other signs & Symptoms | Headache, Trembling, Hunger | Unsteady Walk, Nausea |
First Aid for a diabetic emergency
The first aid for insulin shock and diabetic coma is the same:
- Begin scene survey
- If the casualty is unresponsive, get medical help immediately.
- Do a primary survey and give first aid for life-threatening conditions.
- Place the unconscious person into the recovery position and monitor the ABC's until medical help can take over:
Airway to ensure a clear airway
Breathing- to ensure effective breathing
Circulation- to ensure effective circulation) - Look for a medical alert device that will give you more information about the casualty's condition.
- If the casualty is conscious and knows what is wrong:
- Assist him/her to take what is needed - sugar or her prescribed medication
- If the casualty is confused about what is required:
- Give him/her something to eat or drink and get medical help.