🚨 How to Treat a Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia) for T1D

Low blood sugar (a “low”) happens when blood glucose drops below 70 mg/dL. It can be scary, but quick action makes all the difference.


🚦 Know the Signs of a Low:

  • Shaky or dizzy
  • Sweaty or pale
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Irritable or confused
  • Headache or blurred vision
  • Hungry or weak
    (Some people may show different signs — know your child’s!)

Click here for free printable charts that show the symptoms of a low- perfect for teachers, caregivers, and family/friends.


🍭 3-Step Rule of 15 to Treat a Low:

1️⃣ Give 15g of fast-acting carbs:

2️⃣ Wait 15 minutes.

  • Recheck blood sugar.

3️⃣ Still low? Repeat with another 15g.

  • Keep checking until BG is above 80–100 mg/dL.

✅ Once BG is up and stable:

  • Give a snack with protein/fat if it’s more than 30 minutes until the next meal (like peanut butter crackers or cheese and fruit) to prevent it from dropping again.

🚨 Emergency? Use Glucagon:

  • If the person is unconscious, having a seizure, or can’t swallow — use a glucagon emergency kit (injection or nasal spray) and call 911 immediately.

💡 Tip: Always have low snacks on hand — at school, in the car, in backpacks, everywhere.

🔄 Print or post this where caregivers, teachers, and babysitters can see it!

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