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First aid for diabetics

There are two types of crisis a diabetic might have: hyperglycaemia (high blood sugar) or hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Either can result in coma if urgent action is not taken.

If you are diabetic or know someone who is, you should be alert for these warning signs:

• The symptoms of hyperglycaemia are rapid, heavy breathing, vomiting, drowsiness, abdominal pain, sweet-smelling breath, frequent urination and, in severe cases, unconsciousness.

If the person having these symptoms is conscious and is able to swallow, give him/her something to drink that contains no sugar in order to prevent dehydration. Take the person to hospital immediately. If this is impossible, call the local emergency services.

• The symptoms of hypoglycaemia are excessive hunger, disorientation, aggressive behaviour, pale, clammy skin and possible unconsciousness. This condition occurs when insulin levels become too high, thereby reducing blood glucose levels severely.

If this person is still conscious, it is a good idea to give him or her something to swallow that contains sugar. Fruit juice is especially good for this, as are soda drinks.

If you are unsure whether a person is hyper- or hypoglycaemic, give them a sugary drink anyway. The added sugar can do little damage to someone who is already hyperglycaemic, whereas low blood glucose levels could easily be fatal. At hospital it is quickly determined whether they are hypoglycaemic or hyperglycaemic and the appropriate treatment is given.

It is important to get someone in this condition to professional medical care as soon as possible. Diabetic comas are potentially life-threatening.
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