Experiencing Low Blood Sugar? What Hypoglycemia Feels Like and What to Do Hypoglycemia, commonly known as low blood sugar, is a condition that occurs ...

Experiencing Low Blood Sugar? What Hypoglycemia Feels Like and What to Do

Hypoglycemia, commonly known as low blood sugar, is a condition that occurs when the level of glucose in your blood drops below normal. Glucose is the primary source of energy for your body, especially the brain. When blood sugar levels fall too low, the body doesn't have enough fuel to function correctly, leading to various symptoms and potentially serious health complications if left untreated. Understanding what hypoglycemia feels like and knowing how to respond is crucial, especially for individuals with diabetes, but it can also affect those without diabetes.

Why Understanding Hypoglycemia Matters

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar is the first step in managing it effectively. Untreated hypoglycemia can progress to severe symptoms like confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and, in rare cases, even death. Prompt recognition and appropriate action can prevent these severe outcomes and maintain overall well-being. Whether you have diabetes, a family history of blood sugar issues, or simply want to be prepared, understanding hypoglycemia is vital for your health and safety.

What Hypoglycemia Feels Like: Recognizing the Symptoms

Hypoglycemia symptoms can vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. Recognizing these signs early is critical. The symptoms generally fall into two categories: adrenergic (or autonomic) symptoms and neuroglycopenic symptoms.

Adrenergic Symptoms (Fight or Flight)

These symptoms occur when the body releases adrenaline in response to low blood sugar. Common adrenergic symptoms include:

Shakiness: An involuntary trembling or shaking, often in the hands or legs.
Sweating: Excessive perspiration, even when not physically active or in a warm environment.
Anxiety or Nervousness: A feeling of unease, worry, or agitation.
Irritability: Becoming easily frustrated or annoyed.
Rapid Heartbeat: A noticeable increase in heart rate or palpitations.
Hunger: An intense feeling of needing to eat something immediately.

Neuroglycopenic Symptoms (Brain-Related)

These symptoms occur because the brain is not getting enough glucose. Neuroglycopenic symptoms can include:

Confusion: Difficulty thinking clearly or making decisions.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Feeling unsteady or faint.
Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing on tasks or conversations.
Blurred Vision: Vision becoming unclear or distorted.
Slurred Speech: Difficulty speaking clearly.
Numbness or Tingling: Particularly around the mouth.
Weakness: A general feeling of being physically weak or tired.
Seizures: In severe cases, uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain.
Loss of Consciousness: Complete unresponsiveness.

The following table summarizes these symptoms:

It's important to note that some individuals may experience different or less pronounced symptoms. Also, those who frequently experience hypoglycemia may develop "hypoglycemia unawareness," where they no longer perceive the early warning signs.

What to Do When You Experience Low Blood Sugar: A Step-by-Step Guide

When you recognize that you are experiencing hypoglycemia, prompt action is crucial. The "15-15 rule" is a common and effective method for managing low blood sugar.

Step 1: Check Your Blood Sugar (If Possible)

If you have a glucose meter, check your blood sugar level immediately. This confirms whether your symptoms are indeed due to hypoglycemia and provides a baseline for monitoring. Aim for a blood sugar level above 70 mg/dL.

Step 2: Consume 15 Grams of Fast-Acting Carbohydrates

If your blood sugar is below 70 mg/dL (or if you can't check it), consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates. These are easily digested and quickly raise blood sugar levels. Examples include:

Glucose Tablets: The most reliable and predictable option (follow package instructions).
Gel or Liquid Glucose: Similar to glucose tablets but in gel or liquid form.
Fruit Juice: 4 ounces (120 ml) of regular (non-diet) fruit juice, such as apple or orange juice.
Regular Soda: 4 ounces (120 ml) of regular (non-diet) soda.
Hard Candies: 3-4 hard candies that you can chew quickly.
Honey or Sugar: 1 tablespoon.

Example: If you choose juice, pour out 4 ounces. If you use glucose tablets, take the number recommended on the packaging to provide 15 grams of carbs.

Step 3: Wait 15 Minutes and Recheck Your Blood Sugar

After consuming the carbohydrates, wait 15 minutes and then recheck your blood sugar level. This allows time for the glucose to enter your bloodstream and raise your blood sugar.

Step 4: Repeat If Necessary

If your blood sugar is still below 70 mg/dL, repeat steps 2 and 3. Continue this cycle until your blood sugar rises above 70 mg/dL.

Step 5: Eat a Meal or Snack

Once your blood sugar is above 70 mg/dL, eat a meal or snack that contains both carbohydrates and protein to help stabilize your blood sugar and prevent it from dropping again. Good options include:

Peanut butter on whole-wheat crackers.
Cheese and crackers.
A piece of fruit with a handful of nuts.

Example Scenario:

Situation: You start feeling shaky and sweaty while at work.

Check: You check your blood sugar and it reads 65 mg/dL.
Treat: You drink 4 ounces of apple juice (containing about 15 grams of carbohydrates).
Wait & Recheck: You wait 15 minutes and recheck your blood sugar.
Re-evaluate: If your blood sugar is still below 70 mg/dL, you would repeat the process (another 4 oz of apple juice). If it's above 70 mg/dL, you eat a handful of almonds to maintain stable blood sugar.

When to Seek Emergency Help

Severe Symptoms: If someone experiences severe symptoms like seizures, loss of consciousness, or is unable to swallow, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Do not attempt to give food or liquid to an unconscious person.
Glucagon Kit: If a glucagon kit is available and you are trained in its use, administer glucagon as directed by your healthcare provider. Glucagon is a hormone that can quickly raise blood sugar levels.
Call Emergency Services: Call your local emergency number (e.g., 911) to request immediate medical assistance.

Preventing Hypoglycemia: Long-Term Strategies

While knowing how to treat low blood sugar is important, preventing it from happening in the first place is even better. Several strategies can help prevent hypoglycemia:

1. Regular Meal and Snack Schedule

Consuming meals and snacks at regular intervals throughout the day helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Avoid skipping meals, especially if you are taking medications that can lower blood sugar.

2. Balanced Diet

A balanced diet that includes a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats can help regulate blood sugar levels. Focus on complex carbohydrates (like whole grains) rather than simple sugars (like sugary drinks).

3. Monitor Blood Sugar Levels

If you have diabetes, regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels is essential. This allows you to identify patterns and make adjustments to your diet, medication, or activity levels as needed. Work with your healthcare provider to establish target blood sugar ranges and learn how to respond to readings outside of those ranges.

4. Adjust Medication Dosage

Work closely with your healthcare provider to adjust your medication dosage as needed. Factors such as changes in diet, exercise, or overall health can affect your blood sugar levels and may require medication adjustments. Never adjust your medication dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.

5. Plan for Exercise

Exercise can lower blood sugar levels, so it's important to plan ahead. Before engaging in physical activity, check your blood sugar and consume a snack if it's below your target range. Carry a source of fast-acting carbohydrates with you during exercise in case your blood sugar drops too low.

Related reading: Hyperglycemia Vs Hypoglycemia Know The Symptoms

6. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol can interfere with the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels, especially if consumed on an empty stomach. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and always eat a meal or snack beforehand.

7. Educate Family and Friends

Educate your family, friends, and coworkers about the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and what to do in an emergency. This can ensure that you receive prompt assistance if you are unable to treat yourself.

8. Wear a Medical Alert

Consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace that indicates you have diabetes or are prone to hypoglycemia. This can provide important information to first responders in case of an emergency.

Prevention Example Scenario:

Individual with Diabetes: Sarah has diabetes and often experiences hypoglycemia after her afternoon workout.

Monitor: Sarah starts monitoring her blood sugar before and after her workouts.
Plan: She notices that her blood sugar drops significantly after exercise. She starts eating a small snack (a banana) before exercising and keeps glucose tablets on hand.
Adjust: Sarah discusses these trends with her doctor, who slightly adjusts her insulin dosage for workout days.

By consistently applying these preventive strategies, individuals at risk of hypoglycemia can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of low blood sugar episodes. Regular communication with healthcare providers is key to effectively managing and preventing hypoglycemia and maintaining overall health.