Shayna SandersonI was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in November 2010 at the age of ten. Ever since, my world has been about diabetes! I am now a student at Ball State University pursuing a degree in Health Education and Promotion. At BSU, I am the The Diabetes Link Chapter president. My end goal is to be a Diabetes Educator for type one diabetic children and adolescents. In addition to being a student, I am a wife and the mother to two boys!
It seems like there are a million different factors that can cause your blood glucose levels to drop: exercise, changes in your schedule and meal times, what you eat or drink, insulin coverage errors, and even the weather. With all these factors in mind, it is important for people who have diabetes to be prepared for when hypoglycemia strikes.
Personally, when my blood glucose levels begin to drop, I am met with some unpleasant symptoms, including the shakes, brain fogginess, slurred speech, and an overall feeling of malaise. When such symptoms begin to set in, it is important to act fast. This is when preparing for hypoglycemia can come in handy. I always make sure I have snacks in my car, around my house, at my job, and on my bedside table for those stubborn night lows. My go-to treats are juice boxes and fruit snacks because they are usually right around that fifteen carb mark, and they store well. After the sense of urgency subsides, I like to follow my sugary snack with a serving of complex carbs, such as peanut butter crackers or toast to help keep blood glucose levels stable for longer.
All hypoglycemia presents differently, and it is not always something you can predict. Because of this, it is crucial to talk to your health care provider about a glucagon prescription that is right for you! Advocating for the form of glucagon kit that is best for your lifestyle may be important, as there are a few different options and doses available. Ready-to-use glucagon is the option my health care provider and I decided would be most convenient for me, as it is pre-mixed and ready to administer in just two simple steps! Having an emergency ready-to-use glucagon nearby at all times is always a good idea. If possible, I like to keep one in my car and one in my purse or diabetes bag. If you live with someone, it is always a good idea to make sure someone else in your home knows where you keep your rescue glucagon and how to properly administer it. Do not let hypoglycemia take you by surprise! Prepare today to ensure a safer tomorrow.
The blog was sponsored by Xeris Pharmaceuticals, Inc., the manufacturers of Gvoke® (glucagon injection). For more information, please visit the website.
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