Diabetic Shock: How CGMs Freestyle Libre 2 Help

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Diabetic shock, also known as insulin shock or hypoglycemia, is a severe complication of diabetes that can be life-threatening. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and prevention of diabetic shock, and how Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems like Freestyle Libre 2 can help in managing the condition.

What is Diabetic Shock?

Diabetic shock, also known as hypoglycemic shock or insulin shock, is a potentially life-threatening complication that can occur in people with diabetes. It is caused by low blood sugar levels, also known as hypoglycemia.

In normal circumstances, the body maintains blood sugar levels within a narrow range through the actions of various hormones, including insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. Insulin helps regulate blood sugar levels by enabling glucose to enter cells for energy production or storage.

In people with diabetes, the body is unable to produce enough insulin or use it effectively, resulting in high blood sugar levels. This can be managed through medication, diet, and exercise. However, excessive medication, skipped meals, or increased physical activity can cause blood sugar levels to drop too low, resulting in hypoglycemia.

When blood sugar levels drop too low, the body responds with a stress response known as the "fight or flight" response, which triggers the release of various hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can cause symptoms such as sweating, shakiness, anxiety, and rapid heartbeat.

If left untreated, hypoglycemia can progress to diabetic shock, which is characterized by more severe symptoms such as confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even coma. This occurs when the brain is deprived of glucose, which is its primary source of energy.

Diabetic shock is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment. The first step is to administer glucose, either in the form of a sugary drink or gel, or an injection of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. If the person is unconscious, medical personnel may need to administer glucose intravenously.

Symptoms of Diabetic Shock

The symptoms of diabetic shock can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

• Body sweating

• Shaking

• Rapid heartbeat

• Anxiety

• Dizziness

• Confusion

• Blurred vision

• Weakness or fatigue

• Headaches

• Seizures

• Unconsciousness

Causes of Diabetic Shock

Several factors can contribute to diabetic shock, including:

• Overdose of insulin or other diabetes medications

• Delayed or missed meals

• Excessive physical activity

• Drinking alcohol without food

• Certain medications

• Illness or infection

• Prevention of Diabetic Shock

There are several ways to prevent diabetic shock, including:

• Checking blood glucose levels regularly and before engaging in physical activity or driving

• Following a consistent meal plan and eating regular meals and snacks

• Avoiding skipping meals or delaying meals for too long

• Taking diabetes medication as prescribed by a healthcare provider

• Limiting alcohol consumption

• Keeping glucose tablets or other sources of glucose on hand in case of an emergency

How CGMs Freestyle Libre 2 Help

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems like Freestyle Libre 2 can help people with diabetes monitor their blood glucose levels in real-time. Unlike traditional blood glucose testing, which requires a fingerstick and a drop of blood, Freestyle Libre 2 Sensor Kit uses a small sensor that is placed on the skin to continuously measure glucose levels. This sensor can transmit glucose readings to a receiver or smartphone app, allowing people with diabetes to monitor their glucose levels in real-time and detect trends and patterns over time.

Freestyle Libre 2 is a popular CGM system that offers several benefits, including:

• No fingersticks required - the sensor measures glucose levels continuously for up to 14 days
• Real-time glucose readings and trends available anytime, anywhere
• Alerts for high or low glucose levels, helping people with diabetes manage their condition more effectively
• Ability to share glucose data with healthcare providers, family members, or caregivers, allowing for better collaboration and support

In conclusion, diabetic shock is a serious complication of diabetes that can be life-threatening. However, with proper prevention and management strategies, people with diabetes can reduce their risk of developing diabetic shock. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems like Freestyle Libre 2 can help people with diabetes monitor their glucose levels in real-time and manage their condition more effectively. If you have diabetes, speak with your healthcare provider to see if a CGM system like Freestyle Libre 2 is right for you.