sofidexFor patientsAre you a clinician? Clinical site
Ask Sofi
Listen
Patient SupportEmergencies & Reporting
Log inSign up

Warning-sign checks

Insulinoma: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if someone with possible hypoglycaemia:

    • Has a seizure, becomes unconscious, or cannot be awakened normally
    • Is severely confused, unable to cooperate, or unable to swallow safely
    • Does not recover after their prescribed emergency treatment
    • Has been injured during an episode

    Place them on their side if it is safe to do so, use prescribed glucagon if you have been trained, and follow emergency-service instructions.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical assessment for repeated episodes of sweating, shaking, confusion, or faintness, especially when fasting or exercising.

    You should also get prompt advice if episodes become more frequent, stop responding as expected to glucose, or return after insulinoma treatment.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is used to review glucose patterns, treatment effects, nutrition, surgical recovery, and any planned tumour surveillance.

    New but mild symptoms can usually be discussed at this follow-up unless they are worsening or affecting safety.

The article also says

Do not give food or drink to someone who is unconscious or cannot swallow.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Insulinoma. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.