Sugar Below 70: What to Do Immediately (Hypoglycaemia First Aid)

Step 1: Confirm quickly

• If you have symptoms (sweating, shaking, hunger, dizziness, confusion), check sugar.
• Below 70 mg/dL = hypoglycaemia and needs quick treatment.

Step 2: If you are awake and can swallow safely

Take 15 to 20 grams of fast sugar, for example:

• Glucose or dextrose tablets (as per label, usually 3 to 4 tablets), or.
• Half a glass (about 150 mL) of fruit juice or regular soft drink, or.
• Glucose gel (as per pack)

Then:

1. Wait 10 to 15 minutes.
2. Recheck sugar.
3. If still below 70, repeat the same fast sugar once more.
4. Once better and sugar is improving, eat a small snack/meal (like biscuits or a sandwich) to prevent another drop, especially if your next meal is not soon.

Step 3: If you are drowsy, confused, or not able to swallow well

• Do not force liquids.
• If available, a trained family member can use glucagon (injection or nasal, depending on what you have) and call for emergency help.

Step 4: If the person is unconscious, having seizures, or not responding normally

This is an emergency:

• Do not give food, water, or any drink by mouth (choking risk).
• Put the person in the recovery position.
• Give glucagon if available and you know how to use it.
• Call emergency services immediately.

About “glucose paste/ gel inside the cheek”

• Yes, glucose gel can be used in some situations, but only when the person is awake enough and can swallow.
• First-aid guidance supports glucose gel being partly held in the cheek and partly swallowed.
• If the person is unresponsive/ unconscious: do not put gel, paste, or anything in the mouth because it can go into the airway.

Practical takeaway

• Below 70 mg/dL: treat fast, recheck, repeat if needed, then follow with a snack.
• If not fully alert or unconscious: no oral sugar, use glucagon if available, and get urgent help.

Safety note

This is general guidance. Your exact plan should be individualized based on your insulin/tablet type, kidney/liver health, and your usual hypo pattern. If you are getting repeated hypos, your doses need review.