Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): First Aid Awareness

Hypoglycemia refers to blood glucose levels dropping too low for the body to function normally. It is commonly associated with diabetes, but may also occur during illness, exertion, or after extended periods without eating.

Workplace & Canadian Relevance

Low blood sugar emergencies can occur in classrooms, workplaces, fitness settings, and public environments. In Canada, many individuals manage diabetes with medications and insulin, and awareness of hypoglycemia symptoms helps coworkers, coaches, teachers, and first aid responders support early recognition and response.

Scenario (with a trained first aid rescuer)

During a morning team meeting, an employee with diabetes began shaking and appeared confused. A trained first aid rescuer recognized possible hypoglycemia, provided a quick source of sugar from the workplace first aid kit, and asked colleagues to stay with the person while monitoring alertness. Symptoms improved while waiting for additional support.

Symptoms of Hypoglycemia

Symptoms may vary from person to person but often follow a recognizable pattern.

Early symptoms:

Hunger
Shakiness or tremors
Mild nausea
Sweating
Irritability or difficulty concentrating

Progressive symptoms:

Dizziness or confusion
Weakness
Behaviour changes or reduced alertness
Loss of coordination
Seizures*
Decreased responsiveness or unconsciousness*

*These are considered medical emergencies requiring urgent care.

Common Causes

Hypoglycemia can occur when:

A person with diabetes takes medication or insulin without enough food
Eating is delayed or skipped after activity
Exertion increases energy use during sports or work
Illness affects appetite or metabolism
Alcohol is consumed without food

Hypoglycemia may also occur in individuals without diabetes due to certain medical conditions, prolonged exertion, or other metabolic factors.

First Aid Considerations

If you suspect hypoglycemia and the individual is awake and able to follow instructions:

Offer a quick source of sugar (e.g., sweet beverage, candy, glucose product if available)
Encourage resting until symptoms improve
Monitor for worsening alertness

If the individual becomes unconscious, seizing, or cannot follow instructions:

Place in the recovery position
Call for emergency assistance
Monitor breathing and responsiveness until help arrives

Avoid placing food or drink in the mouth of an unconscious person.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Care

Call for emergency assistance if:

The person becomes unconscious or unresponsive
Symptoms do not improve with sugar intake
Seizures occur
The person’s level of alertness continues to decline
You are unsure of the cause of symptoms

Prevention & Awareness

Regular meals and snacks as per personal health plans
Awareness of medication timing
Carrying carbohydrate sources when physically active
Encouraging workplaces and schools to include glucose products in first aid kits

FAQ

Q: Can hypoglycemia happen without diabetes?
Yes, although less common. It may occur with exertion, illness, or metabolic conditions.

Q: How fast can symptoms develop?
Symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly, depending on the person and situation.

Q: Are seizures common?
Seizures are not typical for mild hypoglycemia, but can occur in severe cases, which require emergency care.

Q: Can hypoglycemia happen during exercise?
Yes. Physical activity increases energy use and may lower blood sugar faster.

Q: Does caffeine or water help?
They do not raise blood sugar. Hypoglycemia requires carbohydrates for improvement.

Educational Note

This information supports general first aid learning and public awareness. It is not a substitute for medical assessment, diagnosis, or treatment.