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Below 70? The 15-15 rule

All forDiabetes

Diabetes mellitus, Type 2 Basics

All for DiabetesPublished August 10, 20061 min read

Key points

  • DESCRIPTION Non-ketosis prone hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance due to defects in insulin secretion and peripheral insulin action.
  • Genetics: Strong polygenic familial susceptibility.
  • Concordance is nearly complete in identical twins.

DESCRIPTION

Non-ketosis prone hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance due to defects in insulin secretion and peripheral insulin action. Accounts for 80% of diabetic cases.

System(s) affected: Endocrine/Metabolic, Nervous, Renal/Urologic, Cardiovascular

Genetics: Strong polygenic familial susceptibility. Concordance is nearly complete in identical twins.

Incidence/Prevalence in USA:

  • Incidence:

    – 300/100,000 (males 230/100,000, females 340/100,000)
  • Prevalence:

    – 5,000/100,000

    – More common in some groups such as Pima Indians with 35% prevalence

Predominant age: Typically occurs after age 40

Predominant sex: Female > Male in Caucasian populations

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

  • Related to hyperglycemia and complications including nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy
  • Polyuria
  • Polydipsia
  • Polyphagia
  • Weight loss
  • Weakness
  • Fatigue
  • Frequent infections

CAUSES

Genetic factors and obesity are important

RISK FACTORS

  • Family history
  • Gestational diabetes
  • Obesity

The content on this site is for information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If someone with diabetes is confused, unconscious or cannot swallow, call 911 or your local emergency number.

Filed underType 2 DiabetesDiabetes News

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Low blood sugar

Below 70? Use the 15-15 rule.

Hypoglycemia can happen to anyone who takes insulin or certain diabetes tablets. Treat it straight away. If someone is confused, unconscious or can’t swallow, don’t give food or drink: use glucagon if it is available and call 911 or your local emergency number.

Call 911

Common signs

  • Shaking or trembling
  • Sweating, clammy skin
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Dizziness
  • Hunger
  • Confusion or irritability
  1. STEP 115 gTake fast-acting sugar4 oz (½ cup) of juice or regular soda, 4 glucose tablets, or 1 tablespoon of sugar or honey.
  2. STEP 215 minWait, then recheckStill below 70 mg/dL? Take another 15 g and check again.
  3. STEP 3SnackOnce back in rangeEat a meal or snack if your next one is more than an hour away.

Based on American Diabetes Association guidance. Your care team may give you a different plan, for example for children or after severe lows. Outside the US, call your local emergency number.