Low blood sugar? Use the 15-15 Rule
For a reading below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L). This is the standard protocol for treating mild to moderate hypoglycemia.
Severe low? Call 911 immediately.If the person is unconscious, having a seizure, or cannot swallow safely. Tap here to call.- 1
Eat 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates
Any one of these:
- 4 glucose tablets
- 4 oz (½ cup) of regular juice (not diet)
- 4 oz of regular soda (not diet)
- 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar
- 5-6 hard candies
- 2
Wait 15 minutes
15:00
- 3
Re-check your blood sugar
Still below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L)? Repeat step 1.
Above 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L)? Eat a small snack with protein and carbs (like crackers with peanut butter) to prevent another drop.
🚨 Severe hypoglycemia: know this
If someone with diabetes becomes unconscious, has a seizure, or cannot swallow safely:
- Do NOT put food or liquid in their mouth (choking risk)
- Place them on their side (recovery position)
- If a glucagon kit is available, administer it according to instructions
- Call 911 immediately
- Every diabetic on insulin should have a glucagon kit and ensure family/friends know how to use it
Symptoms of low blood sugar
- Shakiness, trembling
- Sweating (especially cold sweats)
- Rapid heartbeat
- Confusion, difficulty concentrating
- Irritability, anxiety
- Dizziness, lightheadedness
- Hunger (sudden, intense)
- Blurred vision
- Weakness, fatigue