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Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a medical condition that occurs when glucose levels in the blood become too low to effectively fuel the body’s blood cells. “Hypo-“ meaning low, and “-glycemia,” or glucose, meaning related to sugar. The normal range of blood sugar is approximately 70 to 100 mg/dl (milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood). Blood glucose levels below 70mg/dL are considered abnormal and can be very dangerous. Hypoglycemia may be a condition by itself, or may be a complication of diabetes or other disorders. This condition is most often seen as a complication of diabetes, which is sometimes referred to as insulin reaction.
There are many possible causes for hypoglycemia. The body may use up its glucose too quickly, glucose may be released into the bloodstream too slowly, or too much insulin may be released into the bloodstream. Insulin is a hormone that is produced in the pancreas in response to an increase of glucose levels in the body. Its purpose is to reduce the glucose levels in the bloodstream. Common causes of hypoglycemia include: taking insulin or diabetes medicine at the wrong time, taking too much insulin or diabetes medicine, not eating enough during meals or snacks after you have taken insulin or diabetes medicine, skipping meals, postponing meals, exercising more or at a different time than usual, and drinking alcohol. An insulin-producing tumor in the pancreas can also be a cause of hypoglycemia.
Various signs and symptoms exist that are associated with hypoglycemia. These include but are not limited to: dizziness, double/blurry vision, fast or pounding heartbeat, mood swings, headache, hunger, shaking or trembling, trouble sleeping, sweating, and fatigue. A significant decrease in blood sugar will result in a variety of these symptoms and may sometimes include seizures. In some instances, the individual may feel nauseous or even vomit. Evaluation of these symptoms should include checking for sweating, increased heart rate, nervousness, and confusion as these may all manifest due to hypoglycemia. If these symptoms occur, it is imperative that treatment be received immediately. The quickest way to raise blood glucose and treat hypoglycemia is by ingesting some form of sugar or simple carbohydrates. Many diabetics carry glucose tablets, which contain about 4 g of sugar per tablet, and are usually available at any drug store. Other sources such as fruit, fruit juice, crackers, orhard candies can also provide a quick source of sugar.
If left untreated, hypoglycemia can lead to more serious complications. Hypoglycemia from too much insulin can lead to loss of consciousness and coma. Severe hypoglycemia is a medical emergency that may cause seizures and permanent brain damage to the nervous system if not treated. Unconsciousness caused by severe hypoglycemia is also called insulin shock. Medical attention should be sought if low blood sugar does not improve after having eaten a snack that contains sugar. Anyone that becomes less alert or cannot be woken up should receive immediate medical attention. Hypoglycemic unawareness is also a complication that one should be considerate of. This is a state in which a person does not feel or recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia. This can cause a person to not recognize when their blood glucose levels drop below a safe level and so they do not take proper action. This unawareness tends to occur in people who have had a lot of low blood glucose episodes or who have had diabetesfor a long time. It should also be noted that a person’s body may not respond properly and may not immediately respond to treatment, meaning the hypoglycemia may last longer. People with hypoglycemic unawareness are less likely to be awakened during sleep and have fewer defenses against hypoglycemia during exercise. The key to preventing a hypoglycemic episode is taking preemptive precautious measures. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and having readily available snacks in case an episode does begin. Learning to recognize the early warning signs of hypoglycemia and to treat yourself quickly and appropriately is the best way to prevent a hypoglycemic episode.
Sources
American Diabetes Association. Hypoglycemia (Low blood glucose). Diabetes.org. Retrieved October 5, 2012, from
Eckman, Ari S. (2011, June 28). Hypoglycemia. The New York Times. Retrieved October 5, 2012, from
Topiwala, Shehzad (2012, June 27). Hypoglycemia. National Center for Biotechnology Information. Retrieved October 5, 2012, from
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