Hypoglycemia and Driving - In the Driver’s Seat
Driving with diabetes can present a special challenge. The freedom of driving can be managed in diabetics with the proper precautions.
Planning
Hypoglycemia can occur in both the newly diagnosed and those with diabetes for many years. A plan for dealing with it may prevent an accident.
Check your blood sugar
Every time before you get behind the wheel, you should check your blood glucose. If your blood glucose is less than 80, then eat a snack with 15 grams of carbohydrates. A small glass of juice or a half slice of toast with jelly may be just what you need.
Keep Snacks Handy
You should always keep a healthy snack in your car. 100% real juice boxes, snack bars, or a snack box of raisins are good snacks to store in the car.
Medical Alert Bracelet
Always wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace. Also carry identification and a list of emergency numbers. If any difficulty occurs and you are unable to communicate your needs, these items may be vital.
Your Blood Glucose Monitor
Keep a separate blood glucose monitor handy for checking your sugar while driving. Special note - remember to protect your monitor from excessive heat and cold so you may need to remove and put it back in the car only when you are driving.
Stay Tuned
Know the symptoms of low blood glucose:
*Dizziness
*Shakiness
*Confusion
*Sweating
*Hunger
*Fatigue
If you feel any of these, pull your car over to the side of the road and test your blood sugar. If it is low (less than 80), eat your carbohydrate snack and wait 15 minutes to retest your blood sugar. If it is still low, call 911 for help and eat another snack. Do not attempt to drive until all symptoms of low blood sugar are gone.
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