Hypoglycemia 101: Signs of Low Blood Sugar and What to Do Fast Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a condition that occurs when the level of glucose ...

Hypoglycemia 101: Signs of Low Blood Sugar and What to Do Fast

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a condition that occurs when the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood drops too low. Glucose is the main source of energy for your body, and your brain relies on it heavily. Recognizing the signs of hypoglycemia and acting quickly is crucial, especially for individuals with diabetes. Let's break down the basics of hypoglycemia, its symptoms, and how to manage it effectively.

What Causes Hypoglycemia?

Several factors can lead to low blood sugar, but the most common cause is related to diabetes management.

• Diabetes Medications: Insulin and certain oral diabetes medications (like sulfonylureas) are designed to lower blood sugar levels. If you take too much of these medications, skip a meal, or exercise intensely without adjusting your dosage, you can experience hypoglycemia.
• Skipping Meals or Delaying Eating: Your body needs a steady supply of glucose. If you skip meals or wait too long between meals, your blood sugar can drop.
• Intense Exercise: Exercise uses glucose for energy. If you don't eat enough before, during, or after exercise, your blood sugar can become too low.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can interfere with the liver's ability to release glucose into the bloodstream, especially if you haven't eaten.
• Certain Medical Conditions: Although less common, some medical conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, certain tumors, and hormonal deficiencies can lead to hypoglycemia.
• Reactive Hypoglycemia: This type of hypoglycemia occurs within a few hours after eating a meal, often high in carbohydrates. The body releases too much insulin in response to the meal, causing a rapid drop in blood sugar.

Recognizing the Signs of Hypoglycemia: Know the Symptoms

The symptoms of low blood sugar can vary from person to person, and they can also depend on how quickly your blood sugar is dropping. It's essential to learn your individual symptoms. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

• Early Symptoms (Mild Hypoglycemia):

  • Shakiness or tremors
  • Sweating
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Hunger
  • Irritability or anxiety
  • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
  • Pale skin
  • Tingling or numbness around the mouth

• Related reading: Hypoglycemia Uncovered 7 Warning Signs You Can T Ignore

  Later Symptoms (Moderate Hypoglycemia): As blood sugar levels continue to fall, the symptoms become more pronounced:

  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating
  • Slurred speech
  • Weakness
  • Headache
  • Blurred vision
  • Coordination problems
  • Drowsiness

• Severe Hypoglycemia (Requires Immediate Assistance): This is a medical emergency!

  • Loss of consciousness
  • Seizures
  • Inability to eat or drink
  • Coma

What to Do When You Suspect Low Blood Sugar: The 15-15 Rule

If you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, it's crucial to check your blood sugar level with a glucometer (if you have one). If your blood sugar is below 70 mg/dL (or your target range, as advised by your doctor), follow the 15-15 rule:

1. Consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates. Examples include:
   • 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of fruit juice (not sugar-free)
   • 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of regular soda (not diet)
   • 1 tablespoon of honey or syrup
   • 3-4 glucose tablets
   • Hard candies (check the label for carbohydrate content - aim for 15 grams)
2. Wait 15 minutes. This allows the glucose to enter your bloodstream and raise your blood sugar.
3. Recheck your blood sugar. If your blood sugar is still below 70 mg/dL, repeat steps 1 and 2.
4. Once your blood sugar is above 70 mg/dL, eat a snack or meal to prevent your blood sugar from dropping again. This snack should contain both carbohydrates and protein (e.g., crackers with peanut butter, a cheese stick and fruit).

Important Considerations:

• If you are caring for someone who is unconscious or unable to swallow, do not try to give them food or liquid. Administer glucagon (if available and you're trained) or call emergency services (911).
• Always inform your doctor or diabetes educator about episodes of hypoglycemia. They can help you adjust your medication or meal plan to prevent future occurrences.
• Wear a medical identification bracelet or necklace stating that you have diabetes. This is crucial for emergency responders.

Preventing Hypoglycemia: Proactive Steps for Stable Blood Sugar

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some steps you can take to prevent hypoglycemia:

• Work with your doctor and diabetes educator to develop a personalized diabetes management plan, including medication dosages, meal plans, and exercise guidelines.
• Monitor your blood sugar regularly, especially before meals, before bedtime, and after exercise.
• Eat regular meals and snacks. Avoid skipping meals or waiting too long between meals.
• Adjust your insulin or diabetes medication dosage as needed, based on your blood sugar readings, exercise levels, and food intake. Always consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medication.
• Carry fast-acting carbohydrates with you at all times.
• Be cautious with alcohol consumption. Drink alcohol in moderation and always eat food when you drink.
• Educate your family and friends about the signs of hypoglycemia and how to help you if you experience an episode.
• Keep a detailed record of your blood sugar readings, food intake, exercise, and medication dosages. This will help you and your healthcare team identify patterns and make necessary adjustments.

Understanding Glucagon: An Emergency Treatment

Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. It is available as an injectable medication or nasal spray and is often prescribed for individuals at risk of severe hypoglycemia.

• How Glucagon Works: Glucagon stimulates the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream.
• When to Use Glucagon: Glucagon is used to treat severe hypoglycemia when someone is unable to eat or drink, is unconscious, or is having seizures.
• Glucagon Administration: Family members and caregivers should be trained on how to administer glucagon. Follow the instructions provided with the glucagon kit or nasal spray carefully.
• Important Considerations: Glucagon is not a substitute for prompt medical attention. Call emergency services (911) even after administering glucagon. Glucagon may not be effective if the person has depleted glucose stores (e.g., due to starvation).

Debunking Hypoglycemia Myths

• Related reading: Are You Missing The Early Warning Signs Of High Blood Sugar

  Myth: Only people with diabetes can experience hypoglycemia.

  • Fact: While more common in people with diabetes, anyone can experience hypoglycemia due to various factors such as reactive hypoglycemia, certain medical conditions, or even prolonged strenuous exercise.

• Myth: Eating sugar will immediately fix hypoglycemia.

  • Fact: While sugar does raise blood glucose, it's important to follow the 15-15 rule. Consuming too much sugar can lead to a rapid spike followed by a crash, potentially leading to further blood sugar instability.

• Myth: Hypoglycemia is not serious.

  • Fact: Untreated hypoglycemia can be very serious, leading to seizures, loss of consciousness, brain damage, and even death. It's crucial to recognize the symptoms and treat it promptly.

The Importance of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)

For individuals with diabetes who experience frequent or severe hypoglycemia, a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) can be a valuable tool.

• How CGMs Work: A CGM is a small device that is inserted under the skin and continuously measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid.
• Benefits of CGMs:
  • Provides real-time glucose readings, alerting you to highs and lows.
  • Alerts you to trends in your glucose levels, allowing you to proactively manage your blood sugar.
  • Can help you identify patterns related to food, exercise, and medication.
  • Reduces the need for frequent finger pricks.

Hypoglycemia Awareness: Empowering Yourself and Others

Related reading: Fasting Blood Sugar Vs Post Meal Understanding Your Test Results

Understanding hypoglycemia, its causes, symptoms, and treatment is essential for individuals with diabetes and those who care for them. By being proactive, monitoring blood sugar regularly, and educating yourself and others, you can effectively manage hypoglycemia and live a healthy and fulfilling life. Remember to always consult with your healthcare team for personalized advice and treatment.

To help you better understand and remember key information regarding hypoglycemia, here's a summary table: