Back To The Basics: Preparing For Highs And Lows
by Amelia Rehrman
Out of range blood sugars can be so frustrating! And when we’re not feeling well because of a stubborn high or low, it can be hard to remember ways to get back in range without overtreating.
I put together a list of some things I try to do when my blood sugar is out of range. Hopefully this can be helpful to you!
When you have a high blood sugar:
Drink lots of water.
Make sure your pump site is working! Look at the site to make sure there’s no apparent signs of leaking insulin.
Check ketones if appropriate.
Move around! Take a walk, clean the house, do laundry.
If you suspect your pump site isn’t working, or if you’ve done multiple corrections and your blood sugar still has not come down, use a syringe or insulin pen to do a correction. Make sure to account for insulin you have already given through the insulin pump.
When you have a low blood sugar:
If you suspect your CGM may be wrong, check with a finger prick.
Treat with something that will act quickly, like juice. Try to only give a reasonable amount of carbs to treat the low, and wait for the low to come back up.
Sit down and stop what you’re doing! You don’t want activity to make you go any lower.
Tell someone if you’re worried you’re really low. That way they are aware in case something happens.
Are we missing anything on this list? Leave a comment or let us know over at @typeonetogether on Instagram or Facebook!