Hypoglycaemia, also known as low blood sugar, is a condition commonly associated with diabetes. However, it can occur in children without diabetes, too. It is important to manage hypoglycaemia in children to prevent any serious complications.
In this article, we will discuss how to manage hypoglycaemia in children.
What is Hypoglycaemia?
Before we discuss managing hypoglycaemia in children, let’s understand what hypoglycaemia is. Hypoglycaemia is a condition characterized by low blood sugar levels. Blood sugar or glucose is the main source of energy for the body.
Hypoglycaemia can be caused due to many reasons, such as:.
- Skipping a meal
- Delay in meals
- Excessive exercise
- Insulin overdose (in the case of diabetic children)
Hypoglycaemia symptoms in children include sweating, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, irritability, and low energy levels.
How to Manage Hypoglycaemia in Children?
Managing hypoglycaemia in children involves taking certain precautions to prevent the condition and knowing how to handle it when it does occur. Here are some ways to manage hypoglycaemia in children:.
1. Check Blood Sugar Levels Regularly
It is important to regularly check blood sugar levels in children with diabetes to avoid hypoglycaemia. Parents of non-diabetic children should monitor their children’s blood sugar levels if they have been diagnosed with hypoglycaemia in the past.
Parents can use a blood glucose meter to check blood sugar levels at home.
2. Have a Healthy Diet
A healthy and balanced diet is essential to prevent hypoglycaemia in children. Parents should ensure that their children eat regular, balanced meals and snacks throughout the day to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Children should eat foods that are rich in carbohydrates and fibre.
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3. Monitor Insulin Doses
In the case of diabetic children, the amount and timing of insulin doses should be monitored by parents or caregivers to prevent hypoglycaemia.
Overdosing insulin can cause hypoglycaemia, so it is important to adjust insulin doses as per the child’s requirements.
4. Be Prepared
Parents and caregivers need to be prepared for handling hypoglycaemia, especially if their child has a history of the condition. They should always carry a source of sugar, such as glucose tablets or candy, to treat an episode of hypoglycaemia.
5. Treat Hypoglycaemia Immediately
If a child experiences symptoms of hypoglycaemia, such as sweating, dizziness or confusion, parents and caregivers should treat it immediately by giving them glucose tablets or candy.
It is important to note that hypoglycaemia can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
6. Keep Friends and Family Members Informed
Parents should inform their child’s friends, teachers, and family members about their child’s hypoglycaemia, so they can take precautions and provide treatment in case of an emergency.
7. Professional Help
If a child experiences frequent episodes of hypoglycaemia, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. The healthcare professional can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
Managing hypoglycaemia in children involves taking precautions to prevent the condition and knowing how to handle it when it does occur. Parents and caregivers need to be prepared and carry a source of sugar to treat an episode of hypoglycaemia.
A healthy and balanced diet is essential for preventing hypoglycaemia. If a child experiences frequent episodes of hypoglycaemia, it is important to seek professional help.
