Hyperglycaemia is when blood glucose levels are too high (generally greater than 10mmol/l). This might happen because:
- an insulin dose has been missed
- too little insulin has been taken
- more sugary or starchy foods than usual have been eaten
- a hypo has been over-treated
- stress
- being unwell with an infection.
How do I recognise hyperglycaemia?
Symptoms include:
- increased thirst
- increased passing of urine
- headaches
- lethargy
- abdominal pain.
If school staff notice these signs, they should inform the child’s parent/carer as adjustments to their insulin may be needed.
How do I treat hyperglycaemia?
If the child’s blood glucose level is high for only a short period of time, treatment may not be necessary. The child, parent/carer or PDSN will inform you when treatment is required and what to do.
Treatment may include:
- taking extra insulin
- drinking plenty of sugar-free fluids
- rest.
What should I do if the child is unwell?
If a child is unwell with high blood glucose levels and especially if they vomit, the parents should be informed immediately. A child with high blood glucose levels should be allowed to leave the class to pass urine whenever they need to, and should be allowed to drink in class if they need to.
What do I do after I’ve treated hyperglycaemia?
Once you’ve treated hyperglycaemia and the blood glucose has returned to normal levels the child can continue with whatever they were doing, even physical activity.