A woman experiencing poor blood sugar control may begin to experience symptoms when the blood sugar is 100 mg/dl.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia

  • Excessive sweating hunger, weakness
  • Headache feeling faint or dizzy
  • Pounding of the heart
  • Vision problems
  • Trembling/shakiness
  • Feeling sleepy or confused
  • Irritability/crankiness
  • Numbness or tingling around the mouth

Causes

  • Too much insulin
  • Too little food
  • Skipped meal or snack
  • Delayed meal
  • More than usual amount of exercise

What to do?

Check blood sugars*

  • If below 50, take 15 gm of carbohydrates 
  • (i.e. 4-6 oz. of apple or grape juice) ½ cup = 4 oz.
  • If between 50-70, 4-6 oz. apple or grape juice or eat meal or snack if it is time for it.
  • If above 80, drink water and rest.
  • Recheck the blood sugar level 15 minutes after each step above. Repeat the food if the level has not increased by 20 mg/dl.
  • Follow with the next scheduled meal or snack.
  • Make sure someone is present who knows how to use the glucagon kit in case you are unable to care for yourself.

*Always approve your individual treatment plan with your personal physician.
These are general guidelines and not intended to serve as individual treatment or diabetic management recommendations.