Knowing what to do for an insulin overdose can mean the difference between life and death for someone with diabetes. Some of the symptoms of an insulin overdose are cold sweats, hands that tremble, high anxiety and a state of confusion. These can also be caused by low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia.
Too Much Insulin
There are a few different ways to get too much insulin in your system.
If you have difficultly reading the markings on the syringes or vials of insulin, or are not familiar with a new product, you may inject the wrong amount.
You might also inject the right amount of insulin but from the wrong vial if you are using two different types, such as short-acting or long-acting insulin.
You take your shots as always, but fail to eat at the appropriate time. Insulin shots should be timed with meals. Without eating the right amount of food to counterbalance the insulin, blood-sugar levels can lower to dangerous levels.
Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar is characterized by anxiety, confusion, extreme hunger, tiredness, being cranky, sweaty skin and trembling hands. If the blood-sugar level continues to fall during an overdose of insulin, hospitalization may be required. Diabetics can slip into unconsciousness or a coma if blood-sugar levels reach dangerous lows. Having blood-sugar levels that are less than 70 mg/dL is considered low.
Treatment
If you are conscious and able to treat yourself, take the following steps to treat an insulin overdose. Test your blood sugar. Drink at least one half a cup of regular sweetened soda or fruit juice. Eat something if you have skipped a meal. Carbohydrates will raise your blood sugar level. Sit down and rest. Re-check your blood-sugar level after 15 to 20 minutes. If your sugar is still low, continue snacking and re-test again until the level is normal. If two hours have elapsed and your blood-sugar level is still low, contact medical personnel.
Emergency Treatment
Ensure that your family and loved ones know proceed if you lose consciousness or have a seizure during an insulin overdose. They will need to call 911 for emergency help if you become unconscious. They can also inject you with something called Glucagon, which is an insulin antidote. If you often have low blood-sugar levels, it is a good idea to keep some of this in your home.
If you are able to follow directions, have your family give you some orange juice or other sweet juice to raise your blood sugar. They should call 911 if your symptoms don't improve within one hour.
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