Introduction to Diabetes EmergenciesDiabetes is a significant and rapidly growing health problem in the United States. About 16 million Americans have diabetes – and that number is growing every day. Every day, someone suffers from a diabetic emergency. What is a diabetic emergency? Well, first we need to understand what diabetes is. Diabetes is a disease that affects the way your body uses blood glucose (or commonly called blood sugar). Your body is not able to take sugar from your bloodstream and transport it to your body's cells where it can be used as an energy source. There are two types of diabetes; Type I (insulin-dependent) and type II (non-insulin-dependent). Both types can cause a diabetic emergency. Both types require medical intervention/treatment. So, what is a diabetic emergency? A diabetic emergency occurs when there is a serious imbalance between the amount of insulin and sugar in the body. Two conditions can lead to a diabetic emergency. 1. Not enough insulin. This causes high sugar levels or hyperglycemia. This can lead to a diabetic coma. 2. Too much insulin. This causes low blood sugar or hypoglycemia. This can lead to insulin shock. Regardless, both conditions require the person to see a doctor. One of the best things a person with diabetes can do for themselves is to learn how to manage their diabetes and know when they are struggling. It is up to healthcare professionals to know what to look for and how to treat a diabetic emergency. As with any other emergency, a diabetic emergency is a real emergency and time is very precious. Cause/Effect Blood glucose (sugar) levels rise and fall throughout the day based on a number...... middle of paper... ...if necessary, give him food or drink and consult a doctor. Always stay calm, help the person to stay calm (as much as possible), and stay with them until medical help arrives. Diabetic emergencies require special attention. This attention begins with first aid. It is always important to be ready, willing and able when the need arises. You never know when or where you might be when someone might need your help. Works Cited1. American Diabetes Association http://www.diabetes.org/ Copyright: 1995-2014, visited 03/24/20142. Artex Medical, Inc. America's Choice for Diabetic Needs Published by the National Diabetes Education Program in 2013 Read 03/24/2014 (brochure)3. Liberty Diabetic Teaching Guides Published by Liberty Medical Supply, Inc. in 2013 Copyright 2014 Read 03/21/2014 (brochure)