Prevention

Wear medical identification

Wear medical identification at all times. If you have an accident or you are taken to a hospital, this identification lets people know that you have diabetes so that they can care for you appropriately. You can buy medical identification in bracelets, necklaces, or other forms of jewelry at your local pharmacy.

Prevent high and low blood sugar emergencies

Blood sugar usually rises above a target range slowly, but it can lead to a life-threatening emergency unless it is treated promptly. Your blood sugar is likely to rise when you are sick. For more information, see guidelines for when you are sick.

A hyperosmolar state is life-threatening and can occur when your blood sugar level is very high and you get dehydrated. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening blood chemical (electrolyte) imbalance that develops in a person with diabetes when the cells do not get the sugar (glucose) they need for energy.

Diabetes: Preventing High Blood Sugar Emergencies

Diabetes in Children: Preventing High Blood Sugar

Low blood sugar or hypoglycemia occurs when the level of sugar (glucose) in your blood has dropped below what your body needs to function normally. When your blood sugar level drops below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), you will likely have symptoms of low blood sugar which can develop quickly. Low blood sugar can be especially dangerous if you drive. Do not drive if your blood sugar level is below 70 mg/dL. Take precautions when you are driving, and be prepared to stop and treat low blood sugar.

Diabetes: Dealing With Low Blood Sugar From Insulin

Diabetes in Children: Preventing Low Blood Sugar

Having a routine (when you eat, exercise, take your insulin, and check your blood sugar at about the same time every day) can also help prevent high and low blood sugar emergencies. When you have a routine, your blood sugar levels may be more predictable. A routine will also help you to remember to check your blood sugar and give yourself your insulin injections.

Preventing soreness and infection at injection sites

You can prevent soreness and infection at your injection sites by:

• Varying the place where you give your injections. See the picture of injection sites.
• Washing your hands before preparing and giving an injection.
• Cleaning the injection area with a piece of cotton dipped in alcohol or with a commercial alcohol wipe.
• Not using needles that are bent or have been reused several times.