Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): 7 Surprising Signs and How to Treat It Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, occurs when the level of glucose i...

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): 7 Surprising Signs and How to Treat It

Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, occurs when the level of glucose in your blood drops below normal. While commonly associated with diabetes, hypoglycemia can affect anyone. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to respond are crucial for managing this potentially dangerous condition. This article will explore 7 surprising signs of low blood sugar, effective treatment strategies, and preventative measures.

Understanding Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia happens when your blood glucose levels fall too low to fuel your body's activities. Glucose is the primary source of energy for your body, and your brain is particularly sensitive to glucose deficiencies. Normal blood sugar levels typically range from 70 to 140 mg/dL. When levels drop below 70 mg/dL, you may start to experience symptoms. Several factors can cause low blood sugar, including:

Diabetes medications (insulin, sulfonylureas)
Skipping meals or eating too little
Intense exercise
Alcohol consumption (especially on an empty stomach)
Certain medical conditions (liver or kidney disease)
Rarely, certain tumors or hormone deficiencies

It's important to differentiate between mild, moderate, and severe hypoglycemia. Mild cases can often be managed with quick fixes, while severe cases may require emergency medical attention.

7 Surprising Signs of Low Blood Sugar

While common symptoms like shakiness and sweating are well-known, hypoglycemia can manifest in more subtle ways. Here are seven surprising signs to watch for:

Nightmares or Restless Sleep: Low blood sugar during the night can trigger the release of stress hormones, leading to vivid nightmares, restless sleep, or even waking up drenched in sweat. If you frequently experience these nocturnal symptoms, consider checking your blood sugar levels before bed and in the middle of the night (if you wake up) to establish a pattern.
Sudden Mood Changes or Irritability: Glucose is essential for brain function. When your brain doesn't get enough glucose, it can lead to mood swings, anxiety, or unexplained irritability. People may become argumentative, easily frustrated, or experience sudden bursts of anger. It's not just being hungry; it's a distinct change in personality tied to the lack of fuel for the brain.
Difficulty Concentrating or Confusion: Your brain relies heavily on glucose for cognitive function. Low blood sugar can impair your ability to focus, think clearly, or remember things. You might find it hard to complete simple tasks or follow conversations. This cognitive impairment can be subtle at first but can quickly worsen if blood sugar levels continue to drop.
Blurred Vision or Double Vision: Glucose affects the fluids and tissues within the eye. Low blood sugar can cause temporary visual disturbances, such as blurred vision, double vision, or even seeing spots. This is because the lens and cornea rely on a consistent glucose supply for optimal function.
Numbness or Tingling in the Lips or Tongue: Hypoglycemia can affect the nervous system, leading to numbness or tingling sensations, particularly around the mouth. This is often an early symptom and can be a warning sign to check your blood sugar before it drops further.
Headache: While headaches have many causes, low blood sugar can trigger a headache, often described as a dull ache or a throbbing sensation. This occurs because the brain perceives the lack of glucose as a threat and initiates stress responses that can lead to a headache.
Uncoordinated Movements or Clumsiness: Severe hypoglycemia can affect motor control, leading to uncoordinated movements, clumsiness, or even difficulty walking. This happens because the brain's motor cortex, which controls movement, is not getting enough fuel to function properly.

How to Treat Low Blood Sugar

The primary goal of treating hypoglycemia is to quickly raise your blood sugar levels back to a normal range. The "15-15 rule" is a commonly recommended approach:

Check your blood sugar: Use a blood glucose meter to confirm that your blood sugar is indeed low (below 70 mg/dL).
Consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates: Examples include:
- 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of juice or regular (non-diet) soda
- 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar
- 3-4 glucose tablets or glucose gel
- Hard candies (check the label for carbohydrate content)
Wait 15 minutes and recheck your blood sugar: If your blood sugar is still below 70 mg/dL, repeat the process.
Once your blood sugar is above 70 mg/dL, eat a snack or meal: This will help stabilize your blood sugar and prevent it from dropping again. Choose a snack that contains both carbohydrates and protein, such as crackers with peanut butter or an apple with cheese.
Related reading: Your A1C To Blood Sugar Conversion Guide With Free Eag Calculator

If you are unable to treat yourself due to confusion or unconsciousness, someone should administer glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. Glucagon is available by prescription and is typically administered as an injection. After glucagon is given, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

Treatment Options	Description	When to Use
15-15 Rule	Consume 15g of fast-acting carbs, wait 15 minutes, and recheck blood sugar. Repeat if necessary.	For mild to moderate hypoglycemia where the person is conscious and able to swallow.
Glucagon Injection	An injectable hormone that rapidly raises blood sugar levels.	For severe hypoglycemia when the person is unconscious or unable to swallow.
Emergency Medical Services	Professional medical assistance for severe cases.	After glucagon injection, or if symptoms persist despite treatment.

Preventing Low Blood Sugar

Prevention is key to avoiding hypoglycemia. Here are some tips:

Follow a consistent meal schedule: Eat regular meals and snacks, especially if you take diabetes medications. Don't skip meals.
Monitor your blood sugar regularly: Frequent monitoring allows you to identify patterns and make necessary adjustments to your diet, medication, or exercise routine.
Adjust medication and insulin dosages as needed: Work with your doctor or diabetes educator to fine-tune your medication regimen.
Be mindful of exercise: Adjust your insulin or carbohydrate intake before, during, and after exercise to prevent lows. Carry a quick source of glucose with you.
Limit alcohol consumption: Avoid drinking alcohol on an empty stomach, and be aware that alcohol can interfere with the liver's ability to release glucose into the bloodstream.
Wear a medical alert bracelet or carry identification: This will alert others to your condition in case of an emergency.
Educate family and friends: Teach them how to recognize the signs of hypoglycemia and how to administer glucagon if necessary.

By understanding the subtle signs of low blood sugar and implementing preventative strategies, you can effectively manage this condition and maintain a stable and healthy life. Consult with your doctor for personalized advice and treatment options.