What is the main treatment for hypoglycemia?

What is the main treatment for hypoglycemia?

• A. Hydration with isotonic saline
• B. 25-50 g of complex carbohydrates
• C. 15-20 g of simple carbohydrates if able to swallow; otherwise, glucagon injection.
• D. Immediate insulin administration

Answer: (C)

Raising blood glucose quickly is the priority in hypoglycemia. If the person is conscious and able to swallow, give fast-acting carbohydrate totaling about 15–20 grams—options include glucose tablets, fruit juice, regular soda, or honey. After about 15 minutes, recheck the glucose and repeat the carbohydrate dose if still below target. Once stabilized, have a snack or meal to maintain levels and prevent recurrence. If the person cannot swallow or is unconscious, administer glucagon by injection to stimulate glucose release from the liver. Hydration with isotonic saline won’t correct the immediate glucose deficit, and giving insulin would worsen hypoglycemia.

Raising blood glucose quickly is the priority in hypoglycemia. If the person is conscious and able to swallow, give fast-acting carbohydrate totaling about 15–20 grams—options include glucose tablets, fruit juice, regular soda, or honey. After about 15 minutes, recheck the glucose and repeat the carbohydrate dose if still below target. Once stabilized, have a snack or meal to maintain levels and prevent recurrence. If the person cannot swallow or is unconscious, administer glucagon by injection to stimulate glucose release from the liver. Hydration with isotonic saline won’t correct the immediate glucose deficit, and giving insulin would worsen hypoglycemia.