HypoWallet
More than half of know someone with diabetes yet we still don't know what to do if they were in danger, an astounding 52 per cent admitted that they do not understand what hypoglycaemia means.
The research, carried out by BBI Healthcare, found that 48 per cent thought that you should call an ambulance to treat someone who is in hypoglycaemic shock. This doesn't come as much of a surprise considering that ambulance all outs for diabetes relates problems cost the NHS more than £18 million in 2008-09.
Dr Sarah Brewer says: "These research results clearly highlight a need for greater public understanding of hypoglycaemia, and how to treat it. Many people with diabetes are unsettled by the thought of having a hypo, and often need immediate treatment on hand to control their blood glucose on a regular basis, a few times a week in some cases."
Education on delivering treatment at different stagesa nd recognising early signs ans symptoms can be crucial and could help to reduce the number od unnecessary ambulance call outs. 77 per cent were unable to to successfully idenitfy all the symptoms.
BBI Healthcare have launched the new HypoWallet that aims to help address this knowledge gap, by prividing clear, easy to access information on hypos and how to treat them.
Gaby O'Leary, marketing manager for the company says: "BBI Healthcare are committed to helping people with diabetes manage their condition through creating innovative products that are both convenient and effective. The launch of HypoWallet to coinside with Diabetes Week is to help raise awareness of hypo management and provide people with the confidence that they can help manage their hypos wherever they are and whatever they are doing. The treatment guide card educates other people with clear instructions on effectively treating a hypo should they need to."
Some common symptoms are:
Trembling
Sweating
Weakness
Palpitations
Hunger
Dizziness
Headache
Nausea
Tingling
Femalefirst Taryn Davies