What Does Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia) Feel Like and What Should You Do? Experiencing low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, can be a frighten...

What Does Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia) Feel Like and What Should You Do?

Experiencing low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, can be a frightening experience. Understanding what it feels like and knowing how to respond is crucial, especially if you have diabetes or are prone to blood sugar fluctuations. This article will explore the symptoms of hypoglycemia, what causes it, and the steps you should take when you experience it.

What is Hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia occurs when the glucose level in your blood drops too low. Glucose is the primary source of energy for your body, and your brain relies on a steady supply to function properly. While low blood sugar is most commonly associated with diabetes, it can also occur in people without diabetes, although it is less common. For individuals with diabetes, hypoglycemia often happens when the balance of insulin, food, and exercise is disrupted.

What are the Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar?

The symptoms of low blood sugar can vary from person to person, and they can also change over time. It's important to learn your own body's warning signs so you can act quickly. Here are some common symptoms:

• Shakiness or Trembling: One of the early and noticeable signs.
• Sweating: Often accompanied by a feeling of being cold or clammy.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Can lead to impaired balance.
• Rapid Heartbeat or Palpitations: The heart races to compensate for lack of energy.
• Hunger: An intense feeling of needing to eat something.
• Irritability or Anxiety: Mood changes are common due to the brain's reduced glucose supply.
• Confusion or Difficulty Concentrating: Cognitive functions become impaired.
• Blurred Vision: Affects visual acuity temporarily.
• Weakness or Fatigue: A general feeling of low energy.
• Headache: Can range from mild to severe.
• Seizures or Loss of Consciousness (in severe cases): Indicate a critical lack of glucose to the brain, requiring emergency medical attention.

Symptoms can appear suddenly and progress rapidly if not addressed. It's also important to note that some people with diabetes may develop hypoglycemia unawareness, where they no longer experience the early warning signs. This can be dangerous and requires careful monitoring and management with a healthcare professional.

What Causes Hypoglycemia?

The causes of low blood sugar can differ based on whether you have diabetes:

For People with Diabetes:

• Too Much Insulin: Taking a larger dose of insulin than needed is a common cause.
• Skipping Meals or Eating Too Few Carbohydrates: Insufficient food intake to balance insulin doses.
• Increased Physical Activity: Exercise can lower blood sugar levels, especially if insulin doses aren't adjusted.
• Drinking Alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with the liver's ability to release glucose.
• Certain Medications: Some diabetes medications, especially sulfonylureas, can increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

For People Without Diabetes:

• Reactive Hypoglycemia: Occurs a few hours after eating a meal, potentially due to the body releasing too much insulin in response to carbohydrates.
• Fasting Hypoglycemia: Can be caused by underlying medical conditions such as tumors, liver disease, kidney disease, or hormonal deficiencies.
• Certain Medications: Although less common, some medications unrelated to diabetes can cause low blood sugar.
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Similar to people with diabetes, alcohol can impair glucose regulation.

What Should You Do If You Experience Low Blood Sugar?

Acting quickly is essential to treat hypoglycemia and prevent it from becoming severe. Here's what to do:

Related reading: Normal Blood Sugar After Eating Your Guide To Postprandial Glucose Levels

1. Check Your Blood Sugar: If you have a blood glucose meter, check your blood sugar level immediately to confirm hypoglycemia. If you don't have a meter, assume you have low blood sugar if you're experiencing symptoms.
2. Follow the "15-15 Rule":
   • Consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates. Examples include:
     • 3-4 glucose tablets
     • ½ cup of juice or regular (non-diet) soda
     • 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar
     • Hard candies (check the label for carbohydrate content)
   • Wait 15 minutes, then recheck your blood sugar.
   • If your blood sugar is still below 70 mg/dL, repeat the 15-15 rule.
3. Eat a Meal or Snack: Once your blood sugar is above 70 mg/dL, eat a meal or snack containing both carbohydrates and protein to stabilize your blood sugar levels and prevent another drop. Good options include:
   • Crackers with peanut butter
   • Cheese and fruit
   • A sandwich
4. Seek Medical Attention if Needed: If you are unable to treat the hypoglycemia yourself, or if you lose consciousness, someone should administer glucagon (if available) and call for emergency medical assistance immediately.

Preventing Hypoglycemia

Related reading: Managing Low Blood Sugar Symptoms And Immediate Actions

Preventing low blood sugar involves understanding your individual risk factors and taking proactive steps:

• Regularly Monitor Your Blood Sugar: Especially important for people with diabetes to understand patterns and adjust medication or lifestyle.
• Follow Your Meal Plan: Eat regular meals and snacks, paying attention to carbohydrate content.
• Adjust Insulin Doses as Needed: Work with your healthcare provider to adjust insulin doses based on your activity level and diet.
• Be Prepared for Exercise: Have a snack containing carbohydrates before exercising and monitor your blood sugar levels during and after physical activity.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation and with food.
• Educate Family and Friends: Teach your loved ones about the symptoms of hypoglycemia and how to administer glucagon in case of an emergency.
• Wear a Medical Alert: Consider wearing a medical identification bracelet or necklace to alert others to your condition in case of an emergency.

Long-Term Complications of Hypoglycemia

While occasional episodes of hypoglycemia are usually manageable, frequent or severe episodes can lead to serious complications:

• Cognitive Impairment: Prolonged or recurrent low blood sugar can affect brain function and cognitive abilities.
• Increased Risk of Accidents: Dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness can increase the risk of falls, car accidents, and other injuries.
• Cardiovascular Problems: Severe hypoglycemia can potentially trigger heart rhythm abnormalities.
• Hypoglycemia Unawareness: Repeated episodes of low blood sugar can make it harder to recognize the early warning signs.
• Seizures and Coma: In extreme cases, severe hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.

When to See a Doctor

Related reading: How To Stabilize Blood Sugar Throughout The Day With Simple Diet Hacks

It's important to consult your doctor if you experience frequent or severe episodes of hypoglycemia, especially if you have hypoglycemia unawareness or if you're experiencing it for the first time without a known cause. Your doctor can help identify the underlying cause, adjust your medications, and provide guidance on preventing future episodes.

Additional Tips and Information

Here is some additional information presented in a table format:

Conclusion

Low blood sugar is a serious condition that requires prompt recognition and treatment. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and steps to take when you experience hypoglycemia is crucial for managing your health and preventing potentially dangerous complications. Whether you have diabetes or are prone to blood sugar fluctuations for other reasons, being proactive and prepared is the key to staying safe. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and management strategies.