Diabetes Attacks

Known as a common “lifestyle disease”, Diabetes is associated with high blood pressure, an excess of sugar and the inability to heal properly. A person experiencing a Diabetes Attack might become incoherent, becoming anxious, fatigue and weak, and also lead to shock.



Symptoms

  • Confusion
  • Change in senses, experiencing blurred vision, headaches, and double vision. Sweating, tingling, numbness, and foot pain may also be present.
  • Sudden hunger, unusual thirst
  • Convulsion that may lead to coma
  • Blood sugar levels read higher as the body’s kidneys suffer damage
  • Chest pain, irregular heart rate that could signal a potential heart attack (see Heart Attack)

First Aid for a Diabetic attack

1. Monitor Lifeline – follow DRABC
If a known diabetic loses consciousness, attempt to resuscitate and seek help. Tell the caller to inform the medical team that the patient is diabetic.

2. Determine high or low blood sugar levels
Talk to the patient and try to establish if their blood sugar levels are low or high.

Signs and Symptoms of LOW blood sugar include:

  • The patient is hungry
  • The patient is sweating
  • The patient appears pale
  • The patient seems confused, weak or disoriented
  • The patient seems aggressive or irritable

If the patient is suffering from low blood sugar levels, give them something sweet to drink or eat.
Do not give diet, sugar free or diabetic safe food or drink.

Seek medical help and continue to give them sweet food or drink every 15 minute until medical help arrives.

Signs and Symptoms of HIGH Blood sugar levels include:

  • The patient’s skin is hot and/or dry
  • The patient feels thirsty
  • The patient needs to urinate

Help the patient administer insulin. Do not administer it for them, but assist them if necessary.
Seek medical help and give them sugar-free fluids to drink. Water is best.

Important: Diabetes can be prevented through proper diet, lifestyle and caution. But in the case that you, or someone you know, become diabetic, always remember these self-care essentials so that you avoid attacks: link up with a diabetes team in your area and stay connected with your doctor; test your blood sugar regularly; use only the medication prescribed and stick to it; be active and eat healthy; maintain positivity; and seek medical attention if you’re experiencing the first signs of an attack.

Related Links

http://zeenews.india.com/exclusive/diabetes-a-lifestyle-disease_5320.html
http://spmt.wordpress.com/2013/01/20/the-management-of-diabetes-and-other-lifestyle-diseases-in-papua-new-guinea/
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Diabetes_Type_2

 

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