What is the recommended emergency treatment for a person experiencing low blood sugar?

• A. Sit down and rest
• B. Call emergency services
• C. Eat a high sugar food, such as hard candy or fruit juice
• D. Take a cold shower

Answer: (C)

Raising blood glucose quickly with fast-acting carbohydrates is essential when someone has hypoglycemia. The brain and body need glucose, and the fastest way to restore it is by giving something the body can absorb rapidly. A high-sugar item such as fruit juice or hard candy delivers glucose quickly, helping to relieve symptoms fast. After giving it, recheck blood sugar in about 15 minutes and repeat if still low. If the person cannot swallow or is unconscious, do not give anything by mouth—call emergency services and use glucagon if available. Once stabilized, offer a snack with longer-acting carbohydrates to maintain levels. Rest or a cold shower won’t raise blood sugar or treat the emergency.