When a child with diabetes is ill, the steps in this section apply equally to them, with two main extra points to bear in mind.
Some children can become hypoglycaemic (have low blood glucose levels) during illness. This makes extra testing even more important. Make sure you have a ready supply of hypoglycaemia treatments (such as a non-diet soft drink like cola, glucose tablets, glucoGel) as well as the other equipment and information. For further guidance on dealing with hypos, our Hypoglycaemia information sheet can be downloaded free from our online shop.
Children often become ill more quickly than adults, so don’t delay in getting help or advice or even reassurance. This may prevent a stressful hospital admission. Contact your GP or diabetes care team if you are at all unsure about what to do. If you are worried and cannot get advice from your doctor or diabetes care team, take your child to the nearest Accident and Emergency department. Remember that children under 16 years of age should not be given medicines containing aspirin unless advised by a doctor.
Reviewed December 2009
Next review June 2011