Typical situations

High blood sugar

High blood sugar (over 10 mmol/l) is not an emergency, but it does need action. Over 13.9 mmol/l is notably high, and then it is worth checking ketones too.

What counts as high

Over 10 mmol/l is high. Over 13.9 mmol/l is notably high. Untreated or during a serious infection, the value can rise as far as 20–30 mmol/l.

Source: Terveyskylä · Diabetesliitto

What the child feels

Heavy thirst and frequent urination (above 10 mmol/l, sugar starts leaking into urine)
Tiredness, dry mouth, blurred vision, nausea
If it lasts, level of consciousness and reaction speed drop

Source: Diabetesliitto · Lastentalo

Most common causes

Meal insulin was too small or forgotten
Carbs were estimated too low
An infection coming on or ongoing
Stress or nerves (e.g. an exam, a performance)
Less exercise than usual
Cortisone medication
The menstrual cycle
The pump cannula is leaking, blocked or has come loose

Source: Terveyskylä · Lastentalo

What to do

Correct a high blood sugar according to the parents' written instructions, usually together with a meal. With a pump, use the dose calculator. Measure more often until the value settles.

Source: Lastentalo · Terveyskylä

The exact correction dose is not in general sources

The correction dose is always specific to the child. Ask your clinic for written, personal instructions (correction factor and sick-day rules) and keep them within reach.

Over 15 mmol/l → measure ketones

If the child is unwell and blood sugar is over 15 mmol/l, measure ketones from blood.

Source: Lastentalo

Sources: diabetes.fi (Diabetesliitto, the Finnish Diabetes Association) and terveyskyla.fi (Diabetestalo / Lastentalo). This app does not replace the individual instructions you receive from your clinic. Insulin doses, correction factors and sick-day rules are always agreed with your own care team.

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