23/03/2026
First you need to know the Signs
Early symptoms include:
- Shaking
- Sweating
- Confusion
- Slurred speech
- Irritability (which can sometimes turn to anger)
- Pale skin
Patients may say they “feel funny” or suddenly seem disoriented.
If they’re conscious and able to swallow safely, this is your window to act.
Step 1: Check If You Can
If you have a glucose monitor available, please use it.
But if you strongly suspect hypoglycaemia, don’t delay treatment waiting for confirmation.
Time really matters in this situation.
Step 2: Give Fast-Acting Glucose
If the patient is conscious:
Give them 15 - 20g of fast-acting glucose - Roughly 5g for children under 4, and 10 to 15g for children 4 and older.
You can use:
- Glucose gel (massaged into the inside of the cheek)
- Glucose tablets
- Sugary drink (not diet!)
Wait 10 minutes. Then you reassess and check if they have improved.
If symptoms improve, follow up with a longer-acting carbohydrate (like a biscuit) once stable.
Step 3: If They Become Unconscious
Do NOT administer oral glucose.
Instead:
- Call 999
- Administer glucagon (if available and trained to do so)
This is why glucagon is included in recommended emergency drug kits for dental practices.
Why This Matters
Hypoglycaemia can escalate quickly.
In the UK, more than 4.3 million people live with diabetes. Many attend dental appointments without eating properly beforehand.
In most cases, early intervention prevents serious deterioration.
Confidence and speed are everything because when someone becomes confused, it can be mistaken for anxiety.
When they slur their words, it can look like panic, or even a stroke,
But sometimes, it’s low blood sugar.
And knowing what to do makes all the difference.
