Low Blood Sugar: Recognise a Hypo and Respond Quickly
A hypo can develop quickly. A plan helps you act.
Spot the signs
Sweating, shaking, hunger, dizziness and confusion can occur with low blood glucose, particularly if you use insulin or certain diabetes medicines. Check your glucose if possible. Below 4 mmol/L is low.
If awake and swallowing safely
Follow your diabetes team's hypo plan. Take fast-acting sugar, such as glucose tablets in the recommended amount. Recheck after 10–15 minutes and repeat treatment if still below 4 mmol/L. Once recovered, have a longer-lasting carbohydrate snack or your next meal.
If the person cannot swallow safely
Give nothing by mouth. Call local emergency services. If unconscious but breathing normally, place them in the recovery position. Give prescribed glucagon if available and you know how. Follow the emergency operator's instructions. Repeated hypos need a diabetes review.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked: 23 October 2026. General health information, not a diagnosis. Seek professional advice for your circumstances.
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