Preventing Endocrine Emergencies
Answers to common questions about preventing endocrine emergencies.
Questions on this page
Can endocrine emergencies be prevented?
Many can be prevented or recognized early through:
- Taking medicines correctly
- Not stopping insulin or steroids without medical advice
- Following sick-day instructions
- Monitoring glucose when appropriate
- Checking ketones when indicated
- Carrying emergency medication when prescribed
- Wearing medical-alert identification when appropriate
- Recognizing warning symptoms
- Seeking medical attention early during serious illness
What should people with adrenal insufficiency carry?
An emergency steroid plan, appropriate emergency glucocorticoid medication and medical-alert identification are important components of adrenal-crisis prevention.
What should people with diabetes keep at home?
Depending on their treatment, useful supplies may include:
- Glucose meter or CGM
- Fast-acting glucose
- Ketone testing supplies when indicated
- Glucagon for people at risk of severe hypoglycaemia
- Adequate diabetes medication and insulin
The ADA recommends glucagon for people taking insulin or otherwise at high risk for hypoglycaemia, with education for family and caregivers.