Survey Highlights Hidden Occurence off Hypos Amongst Type 2 Diabetics

Mon, 05 Oct 2009
A recent survey has highlighted the hidden occurence of hypos amongst Type 2 diabetics .

Half of those with Type 2 diabetes (excluding those treated with insulin) experienced at least one 'hypo', an episode of low blood glucose which can result in symptoms ranging from sweating to fainting. These were the findings of a survey conducted over a fortnight period.

The survey, sponsored by Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) and AstraZeneca (AZ), involved 1,954 people with Type 2 diabetes based in the UK, providing valuable insight into the prevalence and impact of mild to moderate hypos.

Over half (52 per cent) of participants believed mild to moderate hypos impact upon their quality of life, with a tenth reporting to have taken at least a day off work in the last twelve months due to a mild to moderate hypo.

This survey has illustrated that even those who are not taking insulin are experiencing regular hypos; they need to be reassessed by their GP to make sure that they are taking the appropriate medication.

The majority of diabetics in the UK never receive structured diabetes education, which is crucial to better self-management and a lower risk of hypoglycaemia . It is important to improve this area so that hypos become the exception as opposed to the rule.

The survey also showed that a third plus of respondents reported that mild to moderate hypos impact upon their ability to undertake daily tasks, like housework (35 per cent), social activities (37 per cent), sports activities (35 per cent) and sleep (35 per cent). More than half of respondents stated that they worry about having a mild to moderate hypo (47 per cent) and that their emotional wellbeing is affected (47 per cent) adversely.

Type 2 diabetes is treated by healthy balanced diet and regular exercise . However, medication is frequently needed. Hypos only occur in people with Type 2 diabetes who are on specific medications.

Treating a hypo is normally quite straightforward and necessitates taking some fast-acting carbohydrate, like a sugary drink or some glucose tablets. This then needs to be followed up by some longer-acting carbohydrate, like a cereal bar or sandwich.

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