Sometimes a person with diabetes can have a medical emergency from an insulin imbalance. Insulin shock happens when a diabetic needs sugar. This condition escalates rapidly and can be caused by taking too much insulin, a lack of food or too much exercise.

Symptoms of insulin shock

• Pulse and breathing are rapid and shallow.

• Skin is sweaty, pale and cold.

• The casualty is disoriented, irritable or aggressive.

• The person may stagger, tremble or have difficulty speaking.

First aid for diabetic emergencies

Knowing what to do in a diabetic crisis can save a life.

• Assess the individual and send for medical help.

• Place an unconscious casualty in the recovery position and monitor pulse and breathing.

• If a conscious casualty can tell you what they need, assist them to find and take their medication.

• If the person is too confused to understand what is needed, give them something sweet to eat or drink - sugar may help.

St. John Ambulance has training courses to help you to learn to save a life. For more information, see the office in your area or check us out online at www.sja.ca.

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