Low blood sugar at home: the 15-15 rule

For anyone taking insulin or certain diabetes pills, blood sugar can drop too low, especially after a missed meal, more activity than usual or an illness. Signs can include shakiness, sweating, a fast heartbeat, hunger, crankiness or confusion. The fix is fast and simple, and it’s worth keeping the supplies in reach.

The 15-15 rule

Eat 15 grams of carbohydrate and wait 15 minutes.¹ Then check blood sugar to make sure it’s back in a safe range.¹ If the person still doesn’t feel better, have a little more carbohydrate and wait again.¹

What counts as 15 grams

Each of these is about 15 grams: 3 glucose tablets; half a cup, 4 ounces, of fruit juice or regular soda; 6 or 7 hard candies; or 1 tablespoon of sugar.¹ Keep some by the bed, in the car and in a bag when going out.

When it’s an emergency

If the person can’t swallow safely, passes out or has a seizure, don’t put food or drink in their mouth. Call 911. Ask the doctor whether glucagon, a rescue medicine family can give, should be kept at home.

Find the cause

Tell the provider about any low readings. A change in medicine, eating less during an illness or a new activity can all cause lows, and the plan may need adjusting. A home health nurse can review diabetes medicines and teach the family what to watch for.