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Diabetes
People suffering from diabetes need to
control their blood sugar levels by balancing the amount of sugar in their diet with
insulin injections. As a result, many carry hypodermic needles, insulin bottles,
medication, card or identity bracelets with them, indicating that they have diabetes.
If a person with diabetes on treatment
has missed a meal or taken too much exercise, the concentration of sugar in the blood
falls, and unconsciousness can follow. The aim of first aid in this situation is to
restore the sugar/insulin balance as soon as possible.
Treatment:
- If the casualty is conscious and capable
of swallowing, immediately give sugar lumps, a sugary drink, chocolate or other sweet food
in order to raise the level of sugar in the blood.
If the casualty is
unconscious but breathing normally, place in the recovery
position, and carry out general treatment for unconsciousness "Remove to
hospital immediately."
N.B. IF THE VICTIM IS
UNCONSCIOUS, DO NOT GIVE ANYTHING BY MOUTH.
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