- As soon as you feel hypo check your actual glucose level to confirm that it is below 4mmol/L.
- If your glucose level is less than 4mmol/ L either with or without symptoms, treat immediately with 15-20g of fast acting carbohydrate.
- It will take approximately 10-15 minutes before you will increase in your glucose level. This is normal but can seem like a very long time when you are experiencing symptoms.
- Recheck your glucose level after 10-15 minutes. If blood glucose level remains below 4mmol/L then treat again with same amount of fast acting carbohydrate. Repeat this until glucose is over 4mmol/L.
- Once your glucose is over 4mmol/L, if it is mealtime then continue with your meal remembering to give your usual amount of insulin. However, if nervous about giving the full amount you may wish to reduce the dose of insulin by 1 or 2 units.
- If the hypo happens outside of mealtime then have a small slow release carbohydrate snack e.g. piece of toast, a piece of fruit or a biscuit. This is essential to replenish the liver’s stores of glucose.
💡 Mostly you should be able to treat the hypo yourself. Some people need help from others, especially if they don’t get symptoms.
