CHAPTER12: How can I prevent hypos?

Here are steps you can take to reduce the risk of hypos. These include

·       Not skipping or delaying snacks or meals.

·       Learning about the right dose of insulin you need for a given amount of carbohydrate.

·       Adjusting your insulin if you're exercising vigorously.

·       Avoiding alcohol, and particularly drinking on an empty stomach.

·       Speaking to your medical team in advance of situations where your normal eating will be disrupted (e.g., at Ramadan, or if you're travelling or working shifts) so you can work together to adjust your insulin dose.

·       If you're taking sulfonylureas tablets and getting symptoms that you think may be hypos, speak with your team. They may be able to change your medication, as there are many alternative treatments for type 2 diabetes that don't cause hypos.

·       Keeping a supply of sugary drink, fruit juice or glucose tablets to hand at all times, so you can treat symptoms early.

·       Checking your blood glucose regularly.

·       If, despite all your best efforts, you continue to experience frequent and debilitating hypos, you you inform your treating diabetes physician.