SDLP Health Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has urged people to familiarise themselves with the signs of a ‘hypo’ when a diabetic friend or family member’s sugar levels drop suddenly.
This week is Hypo awareness week.
Said the Foyle MLA: “Over 100,000 people in Northern Ireland are now living with diabetes.
“While most will learn to manage their condition independently, it’s important that everyone learns how they can help friends and family members when they need support.
“Almost everyone with Type 1 diabetes and some people with Type 2 will experience ‘hypos’ – when their blood sugar levels drop unexpectedly and they need to take action.
“It can be as simple as offering fast-acting sugar like a fizzy drink, orange juice or sweets.
“It’s important to talk to friends and family members with diabetes to familiarise yourself with the signs that they’re experiencing a hypo and what they usually do to combat it.
“As more people are diagnosed with diabetes, it’s important that we all familiarise ourselves with small steps we can take that will support them when they’re in difficult situations,” added the Stormont Minister.
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