Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, occurs when the level of glucose (sugar) ...

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, occurs when the level of glucose (sugar) in your blood drops below what is healthy for you. For many people with diabetes, this means a blood sugar reading of 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) or lower. While it's most common in people with diabetes, particularly those taking insulin or certain oral medications, it can also affect people without diabetes. Understanding the symptoms of low blood sugar, its causes, and the appropriate treatment is crucial for managing and preventing this condition.

Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

The symptoms of hypoglycemia can vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe. It's important to recognize these symptoms early so you can take action to raise your blood sugar levels. Common symptoms include:

• Shakiness or tremors: Feeling unsteady and trembling.
• Sweating: Excessive perspiration, even when you're not hot.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Feeling faint or unstable.
• Hunger: An intense craving for food, often sweets.
• Irritability or mood changes: Feeling anxious, edgy, or easily upset.
• Confusion: Difficulty thinking clearly or concentrating.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat: Experiencing heart palpitations.
• Blurred vision: Seeing things out of focus.
• Headache: A dull or throbbing pain in the head.
• Weakness or fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy.
• Difficulty speaking: Slurred speech or trouble finding words.
• Seizures or loss of consciousness: In severe cases, hypoglycemia can lead to seizures or passing out.

It's important to note that not everyone experiences the same symptoms, and the severity of the symptoms can vary depending on how low your blood sugar drops and how quickly it drops. If you suspect you have low blood sugar, check your blood glucose level immediately, if possible.

Causes of Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Hypoglycemia can occur for a variety of reasons, with the most common being related to diabetes management. However, it can also occur in people without diabetes, although less frequently. Understanding the causes of low blood sugar can help you take steps to prevent it.

Causes in People with Diabetes:

• Excess insulin: Taking too much insulin or other diabetes medications that lower blood sugar.
• Skipping meals or eating too little: Not consuming enough carbohydrates to balance your insulin or medication.
• Delayed or irregular meals: Inconsistent meal times can disrupt blood sugar levels.
• Increased physical activity: Exercise can lower blood sugar, especially if you don't adjust your medication or food intake.
• Drinking alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with the liver's ability to release glucose into the bloodstream.

Causes in People Without Diabetes:

Related reading: The Post Meal Blood Sugar Spike How To Manage Your Postprandial Glucose

While less common, hypoglycemia can also occur in individuals who don't have diabetes. Some potential causes include:

• Reactive Hypoglycemia (Postprandial Hypoglycemia): This occurs a few hours after eating a meal, often due to the body releasing too much insulin in response to the meal.
• Fasting Hypoglycemia: This occurs after not eating for a prolonged period. Potential causes include:
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as quinine (used to treat malaria) can lower blood sugar.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption: Even in non-diabetics, excessive alcohol can disrupt liver function and glucose release.
  • Liver, kidney, or heart failure: These conditions can affect the body's ability to regulate blood sugar.
  • Tumors: Rare tumors (e.g., insulinomas) can produce excess insulin.
  • Hormonal deficiencies: Deficiencies in hormones like cortisol or growth hormone can contribute to hypoglycemia.
  • Post-bariatric surgery: Changes to digestion after certain weight-loss surgeries can cause hypoglycemia.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of hypoglycemia, especially if you experience it frequently or without a clear explanation.

Treatment for Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Related reading: The Complete Guide To Checking Blood Sugar At Home Meters Vs Cgms

The treatment for hypoglycemia depends on the severity of the symptoms and whether the person is conscious and able to swallow. The primary goal is to raise blood sugar levels quickly and safely.

For Mild to Moderate Hypoglycemia (Conscious and Able to Swallow):

• The 15-15 Rule:
  1. Check your blood sugar if possible.
  2. Eat or drink 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates. Examples include:
     • 3-4 glucose tablets
     • 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of juice (e.g., apple, orange)
     • 1 tablespoon of honey or syrup
     • Hard candies (check the nutrition label for carbohydrate content).
  3. Wait 15 minutes and recheck your blood sugar.
  4. If your blood sugar is still below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L), repeat the process.
  5. Once your blood sugar is above 70 mg/dL, eat a longer-acting source of carbohydrates, such as a piece of whole-wheat bread with peanut butter, to help stabilize your blood sugar.

For Severe Hypoglycemia (Unconscious or Unable to Swallow):

Severe hypoglycemia requires immediate medical attention. The person needs assistance as they cannot treat themselves.

• Glucagon Injection: If a person is unconscious, someone can administer a glucagon injection (if available and if they know how to administer it). Glucagon is a hormone that stimulates the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. After the injection, call for emergency medical assistance.

• Emergency Medical Services: Call emergency medical services (911 in the US) immediately. They can provide glucose intravenously (through a vein) to quickly raise blood sugar levels.

It's essential for people at risk of hypoglycemia, especially those with diabetes, to carry a source of fast-acting carbohydrates with them at all times. Also, those prone to severe hypoglycemia should ensure that family, friends, and caregivers know how to administer glucagon and when to call for emergency assistance.

Preventing Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Preventing hypoglycemia is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being, especially for people with diabetes. By following these strategies, you can significantly reduce your risk of experiencing low blood sugar.

• Monitor Your Blood Sugar Regularly: Frequent blood sugar monitoring, especially before meals, after meals, before and after exercise, and before bed, helps you identify patterns and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

• Work with Your Healthcare Team: Regular communication with your doctor, diabetes educator, and registered dietitian is essential. They can help you adjust your medication, meal plan, and exercise regimen to prevent hypoglycemia.

• Related reading: The Prediabetes Range 5 Steps To Take To Control Your Blood Sugar Now

  Follow a Consistent Meal Plan: Eat regular meals and snacks at consistent times each day. Don't skip meals or delay them.

• Learn Carb Counting: Understanding how many carbohydrates are in the foods you eat and adjusting your insulin or medication accordingly is important.

• Adjust Insulin or Medication for Exercise: Discuss with your doctor how to adjust your insulin or medication dosage when you exercise. You may also need to eat a snack before or during exercise to prevent hypoglycemia.

• Be Cautious with Alcohol: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation and always eat food while drinking. Avoid drinking on an empty stomach.

• Keep a Log of Hypoglycemic Episodes: Track when you experience hypoglycemia, the symptoms you had, and what you did to treat it. Share this information with your healthcare team to help them identify potential causes and make adjustments to your treatment plan.

• Educate Family and Friends: Make sure your family and friends know how to recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia and what to do in case of an emergency. Show them how to administer glucagon if necessary.

Diagnosing the Cause of Hypoglycemia

If you experience frequent or unexplained episodes of hypoglycemia, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause. Diagnosing the cause often involves a combination of:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Your doctor will ask about your medical history, including any medications you're taking, and perform a physical examination.

• Blood Tests:

  • Fasting Blood Glucose Test: This measures your blood sugar level after you have fasted for at least eight hours.
  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): This involves drinking a sugary solution and then having your blood sugar levels checked periodically over a few hours. It can help diagnose reactive hypoglycemia.
  • Mixed-Meal Tolerance Test (MMTT): Similar to an OGTT, but uses a standardized meal.
  • Insulin and C-Peptide Levels: These tests can help determine if your body is producing too much insulin.
  • Antibody Tests: These tests can help identify autoimmune causes of hypoglycemia.
  • Cortisol and Growth Hormone Levels: These tests can help identify hormonal deficiencies.

• Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging tests, such as an abdominal CT scan or MRI, may be necessary to look for tumors that could be causing hypoglycemia.

Pinpointing the cause of your low blood sugar is critical for determining the most effective long-term treatment and management strategy.

Summary

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is a condition that can be managed effectively with awareness, prompt treatment, and preventative measures. Recognizing the symptoms of hypoglycemia, understanding its potential causes, and knowing how to treat it are essential for individuals with and without diabetes. By working closely with your healthcare team and adopting a proactive approach, you can minimize the risk of experiencing hypoglycemia and maintain optimal health. Always consult with a medical professional for personalized advice and treatment options.