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Diabetes
Diabetes is caused by a disorder of the pancreas. In the digestive process, the body breaks food down into sugars which are absorbed into the bloodstream. In a healthy person, the pancreas then produces insulin to convert this sugar into energy. In a person with diabetes, insulin production and function are impaired. As a result, sugar builds up in the blood and the cells do not get the energy they need.
A diabetic emergency can result when there is very low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) or very high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia).
Low blood sugar
What to look for
The person may
- feel dizzy, weak, trembling and hungry
- look pale and have a rapid pulse
- be sweating profusely
- be numb around their lips and fingers
- be unconscious.
What to do
If the casualty is unconscious
- Follow DRABC.
- Give nothing by mouth.
- Call 000 for an ambulance.
If the casualty is conscious
- Give them sugar or glucose (e.g. soft drink or cordial).
- Continue giving sugar every fifteen minutes until medical help arrives or the casualty recovers.
- Loosen any tight clothing they are wearing.
- Seek medical aid if required.
High blood sugar
What to look for
The person may
- be excessively thirsty
- have a frequent need to urinate
- have hot, dry skin, a rapid pulse and drowsiness
- have the smell of acetone on the breath
- be unconscious.
What to do
If the casualty is unconscious
- Follow DRABC.
- Give nothing by mouth.
- Call 000 for an ambulance.
If the casualty is conscious
- Allow casualty to self-administer their medication, if available.
- Seek medical aid if required. If medical aid is delayed, encourage the casualty to drink sugar-free fluids.
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