Oral glucose rapidly elevates low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which is crucial for proper brain function. Untreated low blood sugar can lead to serious health concerns. Prompt action with oral glucose mitigates these risks by providing a readily available sugar source.
Recognizing Low Blood Sugar
Symptoms of low blood sugar vary and can manifest quickly. Common signs of mild to moderate hypoglycemia include shakiness, sweating, increased heart rate, and extreme hunger. Individuals might also experience dizziness, lightheadedness, anxiety, irritability, or confusion. More severe indicators can involve blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, or tingling in the lips or tongue.
While a blood glucose meter offers the most accurate way to confirm low blood sugar, it is not always immediately available. If symptoms strongly suggest hypoglycemia, treat the condition even without a meter reading to prevent further drops. Some individuals may experience “hypoglycemia unawareness,” where they do not perceive the typical warning signs, increasing their risk for severe episodes. Learning personal symptoms and regularly monitoring blood sugar levels, especially for those with diabetes, helps in timely recognition and treatment.
Administering Oral Glucose
Once low blood sugar is recognized, administering oral glucose is the next step. The American Diabetes Association recommends consuming 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates to raise blood sugar levels. Various forms of oral glucose are available. Glucose tablets are a common and convenient option; typically, three to four tablets provide about 15 grams of carbohydrates. These tablets should be chewed and swallowed for rapid absorption.
Glucose gel is another effective choice, with one tube often containing 15 grams of glucose. It can be squeezed directly into the mouth and swallowed, or applied between the cheek and gum for absorption if swallowing is difficult. Sugary drinks like half a cup (4 ounces) of fruit juice or regular soda (not diet) also provide approximately 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates. One tablespoon of table sugar, honey, syrup, or several hard candies (checking carbohydrate content) can also be used. Ensure the person is conscious and able to swallow safely before giving any oral glucose to prevent choking.
Post-Administration Care and Precautions
After administering oral glucose, recheck blood sugar levels after 15 minutes to assess effectiveness. If blood sugar remains below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) or symptoms persist, consume another 15-gram dose of fast-acting carbohydrates. Repeat this “15-15 rule” until blood sugar levels return to a safe range. Once blood sugar is above 70 mg/dL and symptoms have improved, follow up with a substantial snack containing complex carbohydrates and protein, such as crackers and cheese or a sandwich, to help sustain blood sugar levels and prevent another drop.
Oral glucose should not be given if the individual is unconscious, disoriented, having a seizure, or unable to swallow safely, as this can lead to choking or aspiration. In such instances, emergency medical attention should be sought immediately. Family members or caregivers should be aware of these critical signs and know how to call for help. Understanding when and how to use emergency glucagon, a prescription medication that raises blood sugar, is important for severe episodes where oral intake is not possible.