National Diabetes Reference Materials - An initiative under the War on Diabetes
“At the moment” level of sugar (glucose) in your blood
(Glycosylated haemoglobin)
Before a meal or 2 hours after
When you experience hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) symptoms (e.g dizziness, hunger
Before or after exercise
When you are sick and not feeling well
Risk of hyperglycaemia
> 7.0 mmol/L
> 10.0 mmol/L
4.0 to 7.0 mmol/L
4.0 to 10.0 mmol/L
Risk of hypoglycaemia
< 4.0 mmol/L
Your targets may vary depending on your condition; discuss this with your doctor or care team.
Hunger
Hand tremors
Abnormally fast heartbeat
Fatigue
Mood changes (e.g. anxiety, irritability, nervousness)
Dizziness or headaches
Changes in behaviour (e.g. confusion, weakness, unclear speech)
Drowsiness
Drink half a glassof sweetened drink.
Eat 3 soft candies (sugar-containing) or sugar (glucose) tablets.
After 15 minutes, check blood sugar level.
If symptoms persist or blood sugar level is low (< 4 mmol/L), repeat steps 1 & 2 one time.
If symptoms persist after second attempt, seek medical advice (if your doctor is unavailable and it is an emergency, head to the A&E).
If symptoms resolve or blood sugar level is ≥ 4 mmol/L, go to step 3.
Eat a light snack (e.g. bread, biscuits) or have your next meal earlier to prevent blood sugar levels from dropping again.
Record what happened prior to experiencing hypoglycaemia. If hypoglycaemia is frequent, do a medication check with your doctor.
Do not skip meals even when busy.
Bring a few sugar-containing sweets along whenever you go out
Eat extra carbohydrates before any exercise or strenuous activity
Do not take diabetes medication or insulin injection in the morning when fasting for a blood test
Closely follow instructions on when to take your medication, especially in relation to meals
If you experience hypoglycaemia frequently, check with your doctor if your medication needs adjustment
Increased thirst
Frequent urination
Increased hunger
Blurred vision
Headaches
Weight loss
Slow-healing cuts
Blood sugar level > 15 mmol/L
Check your blood sugar level more often
Drink plenty of plain water
Seek medical advice if your blood sugar level is persistently > 15 mmol/L (i.e. remaining very high for more than 24 hours)
The frequency of tests may vary depending on your condition
Kidney failure
Blindness
Amputation
Heart attack
Stroke