Hypoglycemia: Satjit Bhusri, MD, FACC: Cardiovascular Disease Specialist

–       Is hypoglycemia without diabetes common in adults and children?

Hypoglycemia without diabetes in is uncommon and is a marker of some underlying pathology that needs to be investigated. hypoglycemia otherwise known as low blood sugar in adults is very commonly seen in patients who are fighting and active infection they are using all of that energy that sugar also known as glucose to fight an infection sometimes that infection is so overwhelming that it consumes all of the energy in one’s body and can lead to acid buildup in the blood which is a sign of your body trying to make energy from it’s backup energy process known as anaerobic metabolism.

in children low blood sugar or hypoglycemia without diabetes is more often than not due to some type of genetic neural hormonal adrenal axis problem and really needs to be investigated for some underlying endocrine disease

·       What are the symptoms of each and which ones distinguish the two conditions?

so diabetes is excess sugar in the blood whereas hypoglycemia is insufficient sugar in the blood when there is extremes in blood sugar we see similar symptoms so these include marked lethargy or fatigue like symptoms this can lead to seizures this can lead to increase chance of infections and also we can see that in both conditions that there is an underlying cause tilting the balance of sugar in the blood to help supply the organs primarily the brain and the Heart

·       How can a parent tell if their child is hypoglycemic?

Look for signs of listlessness fatigue dryness of the skin droopy eyes dryness of the mouth and at its worst seizure like activity

·       When should someone see a doctor for hypoglycemic symptoms?

something to see a doctor for low blood sugar symptoms as soon as possible and your body is in a state of consumption what we call a catabolic state it is fighting something either by not making enough sugar or by something consuming all the sugar either way this is an abnormality that can lead very quickly to hospitalization

·       What can cause hypoglycemia in non-diabetics?

Hormonal imbalance and endocrine tumors are the common cause of hypoglycemia non-diabetics in the pediatric population hypoglycemia in non-diabetics in the adult population is almost always due to either over treatment of certain medicines that can cause hypoglycemia or an active catabolic State such as a severe infection or severe inflammation or severe trauma to the body

·       How is hypoglycemia diagnosed and diabetes ruled out?

both can be diagnosed by checking your fasting sugar level in your blood typically these can be done now as a point of care test at any doctor’s office or urgent Care walk-in Center and it is such a readily available test and cheap test that when one encounters patients with severe hypoglycemia or diabetes it is usually at its worst state

·       What triggers reactive hypoglycemia?

reactive hypoglycemia is classic for your body is fighting something and it needs energy and lots of it energy in the form of sugar this is commonly seen in severe infection such as septic shock or a very large burden of tumor that is consuming energy that should be used for other organs

·       What is a hypoglycemia attack?

this is a sudden quick drop of blood sugar without a compensatory response from your adrenal glands to to say hey let’s amp up our sugar in the blood and allow energy to help our body continue to move and our brain to function and are hard to pump

·       Can non-diabetic hypoglycemia be cured?

it can be cured but the first step is diagnosis depending on the age and other comorbidities one can really figure out why a patient is undergoing multiple bouts of hypoglycemia a referral to an endocrine specialist is of the utmost importance

·       What are treatment options for non-diabetic hypoglycemia?

the treatment options are number one treating the underlying cause whether it’s an infection over medication or cancer we must treat the underlying cause that is consuming all the sugar in the blood

·       What happens if hypoglycemia is untreated?

untreated it is like a car running out of gasoline your body will stop working and that’s what you will see happening Oregon’s will slowly start shutting down we see this happening in the brain with seizure like activity we see this happening in the heart with arrhythmias kidney failure dryness of the skin leading to skin infections

·       Can a child grow out of hypoglycemia?

once the reason for a child to have hypoglycemia is diagnosed whether it is an endocrine tumor or infection or epilepsy then steps can be taken to counter the hypoglycemia episodes and successfully have the children grow out of these bouts

·       Can non-diabetic hypoglycemia be prevented?

Standard screening prevention is all about screening screening by your pediatrician Sweden by your physician simple blood work very cheap inexpensive blood work a physical exam and a nice detailed history will lead the patient and physician to prevent hypoglycemia from occurring

·       What are some natural and medicinal methods for preventing hypoglycemia (both with and without diabetes?

preventing hypoglycemia naturally is all about preventing other comorbid conditions such as hypertension and high cholesterol and smoking and obesity so lifestyle modification is the best method no matter what for preventing hypoglycemia there are some medicines that can be used but those are infrequent again because hypoglycemia is typically due to some secondary cause

·       What are some foods to avoid if you have hypoglycemia?

I would not avoid any food if you have hypoglycemia I would actually look for foods that have a high glycemic index or high sugar and glucose levels that is immediate energy for the body to use so that one can keep the engine going

·       Can dehydration cause hypoglycemia

dehydration can absolutely cause hypoglycemia dehydration is not enough water hypoglycemia is not enough food so in severely malnourished people you see dehydration hypoglycemia linked together and treating both is treating them at the same time which is an intravenous infusion of sugar water.

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Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar) – Overview

Hypoglycemia is a condition where the blood sugar levels (glucose) is lower than normal. Often related to people with diabetes, Hypoglycemia occurs when the body is deprived of insulin hormone that converts glucose into energy.

Blood sugar levels are considered low when they drop below 70mg/dL. A severe reduction in blood sugar levels can be dangerous. Let us understand more about the low sugar symptoms, causes and it’s treatment. Also know about pp blood sugar

Table of Contents

• Types of Low blood sugar levels
  [More]

  • Nighttime Low blood sugar 
  • Severe low blood sugar 

• Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar

• Who is at Risk of Hypoglycemia

• Hypoglycemia Causes
  [More]

  • Hypoglycemia causes In People Without Diabetes
  • Hypoglycemia causes In People With Diabetes
  • Causes Of Reactive Hypoglycemia
  • Causes of Fasting Hypoglycemia

• How is Hypoglycemia diagnosed?

• Measures to take when your blood sugar levels get low 

• Hypoglycemia Treatment

• Sample diet plan for low blood sugar 
  [More]

  • Sunday
  • Monday
  • Tuesday
  • Wednesday
  • Thursday
  • Friday
  • Saturday

• Complications Due to Hypoglycemia

• How can Hypoglycemia be prevented?

• Bottomline

• FAQs
  [More]

  • Does hypoglycemia go away?
  • What causes hypoglycemia without diabetes?
  • Can dehydration cause hypoglycemia?
  • What are the Warning Signs of Hypoglycemia?
  • What Foods to Avoid if You Have Hypoglycemia?
  • What is dangerously low blood sugar?
  • Is hypoglycemia a sign of diabetes?

Types of Low blood sugar levels

Nighttime Low blood sugar 

Although you can experience low sugar levels randomly during the day, it is observed that usually people have low blood sugar levels when they sleep. low blood sugar causes due to reasons such as having a super active and exhausting day, getting physically active just before hitting the bed, insufficient intake of insulin, and consumption of alcohol at night. Some precautions that you can take to avoid low blood sugar levels during nighttime include

• Eating meals at regular timings and never skipping them
• Eating something, if you are consuming alcohol ideally. 
• Consume a snack before hitting the bed if you feel you are prone to nighttime low blood sugar levels

Having low blood sugar levels during sleep will make you awake but you should depend on such signals. Instead, use a glucose monitor that helps you to wake up in case your sugar levels drop while sleeping. Read more about medications for diabetes.

Severe low blood sugar 

This type of low blood sugar level occurs when your sugar levels are drained drastically. Having low sugar, you’ll experience symptoms such as feeling extremely weak, having trouble walking or seeing clearly, experiencing weird behavior and confusion, and having seizures. If your blood sugar levels are lower than 54 mg/dl then you are experiencing severely low blood sugars which can lead to fainting or passing out. It is vital there you must get help and rush to your healthcare expert to stabilize your sugar levels. If you are not managing your diabetes well, you may experience low blood sugar levels twice or thrice a week. You must know what actions are needed to be taken to bring your sugar levels to normalcy. Also read about how pomegranate is good for diabetes.

Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar

Hypoglycemia symptoms can occur suddenly or gradually, depending upon the individual health conditions, lifestyle, etc. Some of the common low sugar level symptoms across different people have been listed below for your understanding:

• Dizziness
• Restlessness
• Sweating
• Shakiness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sudden nervousness and mood changes
• Sudden/unexplained fatigue and tiredness
• Hunger
• Confusion and difficulty in thinking clearly
• Tingling sensation in the skin and nerves
• Difficulty in sleeping
• Skin turning pale

People who are unaware of their Hypoglycemic condition often fail to notice the hypoglycemia symptoms and can faint due to a severe drop in blood sugar levels leading to experiencing a seizure or even going to coma. Know more about signs and symptoms of diabetes mellitus.

Who is at Risk of Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia risk factors differ from individual to individual depending upon the type of diabetes, age, health conditions, etc. Certain red flags for when an individual might be at risk are:

• Diabetic people are more prone to Hypoglycemia than others
• Excessive dieting can lead to a drop in sugar levels
• Excessive smoking or drinking alcohol
• Too much insulin in the body can lead to Hypoglycemia
• Too many medications, diabetic or other, can lead to Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia Causes

The triggers that have been causing variations in hormone levels may affect the causes of hypoglycemia. However, we have covered some of the potential reasons for you below:

Hypoglycemia causes In People Without Diabetes

Blood Sugar Control – The hormone insulin, which is released by the pancreas, helps the body convert the carbohydrates (glucose) in food into energy. Unbalanced insulin secretion might originate from improper eating habits or bodily processes and lead to abrupt hypoglycemic episodes. Critical illnesses such as cancer, tumors, endocrine issues, insulinomas, etc. may sometimes cause hypoglycemic episodes. Know more about high blood sugar symptoms.

Hypoglycemia causes In People With Diabetes

People who have Type 2 diabetes take medication or administer insulin injections to control their insulin levels. Hypo- or hyperglycemia may result from an imbalance in insulin intake. It can also occur due to skipping a meal and/or increasing workouts without adjusting their meal plan. Drinking too much alcohol clogs your liver and prevents it from releasing the glucose that has been stored there into the circulation, causing hypoglycemia. Also know how to reverse prediabetes.

Causes Of Reactive Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar that happens a few hours after a meal is called reactive hypoglycemia. It occurs when a person’s blood levels of insulin are too high at the incorrect moment. These are the possible causes of reactive hypoglycemia:

• Possessing rare enzyme deficiencies, which can make it difficult for the stomach and intestines to break down food.
• Having prediabetes, which can make it difficult for the pancreas to produce the right amount of insulin. Also know about prediabetes diet.
• Having had stomach surgery, which can cause food to pass through the stomach and into the intestines too quickly.

Causes of Fasting Hypoglycemia

Several factors may contribute to fasting hypoglycemia:

• medications such as sulfa medicines and aspirin
• consumption of alcohol in excess
• liver, kidney, heart, and pancreatic conditions
• hormone levels that are too low
• specific tumors

How is Hypoglycemia diagnosed?

If one experiences symptoms of Hypoglycemic, it is always best to get a Hypoglycemic diagnosis immediately by checking blood sugar levels. If you don’t have the glucometer with you, a visit to the doctor is very much important.

• Physical Examination – When the doctor determines symptoms of Hypoglycemia they take a Hypoglycemia test immediately and monitor the sugar levels constantly for preventing from fatal episodes
• Studying history – Doctor examines your dietary habits, lifestyle habits, medical history, etc to know the probable cause of diabetes
• Monitoring glucose levels – Doctor may recommend carrying a glucometer or glucose-sensor to study intervals of low blood sugar levels and understand the pattern

Measures to take when your blood sugar levels get low 

Having low blood sugar levels causes severe complications therefore it is important to notice the symptoms and take immediate action to balance the glucose levels. Here are certain measures that you must take if you notice that your sugar levels are draining beyond 70mg/dl.  

1. Consume a food item that consists of 15 grams of carbohydrates. For instance,

• Half a cup of fruit juice or regular soda
• 3 glucose tablets
• Candies, ideally 5-6. 
• 15ml sugar, diluted in water or raw
• 15 ml of honey 

2. After consuming any of these, wait for 15 mins and do not eat anything further as it might spike sugar levels. 
3. Next, check your blood sugar levels again. If it is still under 70 mg/dl then consume another snack having 15 grams of carbohydrates. 
4. If your sugar levels reach a safe range and your next meal is more than an hour later then consume something that has carbohydrates and proteins. 

Don’t call your doctor immediately while you are taking the above-mentioned measure. Visit your healthcare expert when your sugar levels are drained continuously despite the measures taken to bring sugar levels to normalcy. Also know about random glucose level.

Hypoglycemia Treatment

Hypoglycemia treatment is done on the understanding if one is diabetic or not. It starts with controlling the ongoing drop in the blood sugar levels by consuming at least 15 grams of carbohydrates immediately.

• Controlling Hypoglycemia – Eating 15 grams of quick-digestible carbohydrates i.e. fruit juice, dried fruit, cookies, pretzels, toffee, etc to control the ongoing Hypoglycemia
• Dietary changes – Consuming food at regular intervals is one of the distinct measures to balance blood sugar levels. Make sure you eat a nutritive diet with the right balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats.
• Medication – For diabetic patients, doctors recommend Hypoglycemia medicine in the form of tablets and insulin shots to maintain insulin levels for optimum production of glucose in the body.

Also read about uses and side effects of sugar tablet

Sample diet plan for low blood sugar 

An ideal diet plan for low blood sugar levels would recommend you take smaller meals four to five times a day instead of consuming three heavy meals. Make sure to eliminate processed foods, and limit foods with high carbs, sugar, and beverages. Strictly eliminate consuming alcohol or caffeine. Include foods with lean protein, soluble fibers, and complex carbohydrates. Here is a sample hypoglycemia diet (low sugar levels) you can follow. 

The ideal timings for consuming the following meals are as follows-

Breakfast- 8:00AM – 8:30AM

Mid Meal- 11:00AM- 11:30AM 

Lunch- 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM 

Evening- 4:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Dinner- 8:00 PM- 8:30 PM 

Sunday

Breakfast- 1 cup poha with veggies and 1 cup orange juice

Mid meal- 1 cup fruit salad

Lunch- ½ cup salad, 3 Rotis, 100 gm fish curry, and 1 cup cabbage curry

Evening- 1 cup of sprouts 

Dinner- 2 Rotis and ½ cup tomato curry 

Monday

Breakfast- oatmeal topped with dry fruits and 1 cup of pomegranate juice

Mid meal- 1 cup fruit salad

Lunch- 1 cup rice with veggies, ½ cup soya chunk curry, ½ cup low-fat curd 

Evening- 1 cup carrot and cucumber salad

Dinner- 2 Rotis and ½ cup lady’s finger veggies 

Tuesday

Breakfast- 1 Roasted paneer roll and 1 cup of orange juice

Mid meal- 1 cup fruit salad

Lunch-1 cup rice, 1 cup dal, ½ cup palak curry, ½ cucumber salad with curd

Evening-1 cup beans salad

Dinner- ½ cup green beans veggie with 1 cup wheat upma

Wednesday

Breakfast- 2 methi thepla and 1 cup orange juice

Mid meal- 1 cup fruit salad

Lunch- 1 cup brown rice with 200 grams chicken curry 

Evening- ½ cup kale and chia seed salad

Dinner- 3 Dosa made of wheat with ½ cup bitter gourd veggie

Thursday

Breakfast- 1 cup masala oats with vegetables and 1 cup pomegranate juice

Mid meal- 1 cup fruit salad

Lunch-2 Rotis, ½ cup rice, ½ cup kidney beans curry, 1 cup curd

Evening- 1cup makhana or boiled chana

Dinner- 2 Rotis and ½ cup mixed veg curry 

Friday

Breakfast- 3 Oats and vegetable idli with 1 cup of orange juice

Mid meal- 1 cup fruit salad

Lunch-3 Rotis, ½ cup cluster beans veggie, 100 grams fish curry along with ½ cup curd

Evening-1 cup black bean salad

Dinner- 2 Rotis and ½ cup Ridge gourd vegetable

Saturday

Breakfast-2 Uttapam with 1 cup pomegranate juice 

Mid meal- 1 cup fruit salad

Lunch-1 cup rice, ½ cup soya chunk curry, ½ cup baked lady finger, 1 cup raita 

Evening- 1 cup vegetable salad

Dinner- 1 broken wheat upma with ½ cup beans vegetable

Also read about sugar free, no added sugar, and unsweetened

Complications Due to Hypoglycemia

Severe hypoglycemia has the potential to be lethal and may result in accidents, injuries, and/or a coma. Recent research has linked severe hypoglycemia to an increased risk of dementia, fractures, falls, and heart attacks. The most straightforward treatment for hypoglycemia is to give the patient sugar in some form. Hypoglycemia is not something that should be taken lightly and the patient must immediately be taken to a hospital or the nearest healthcare center and you should consult a doctor immediately.

Complications of hypoglycemia can be lethal such as going into coma, seizure and death.. Therefore, hypoglycemia shouldn’t be ignored as it can lead to complications listed below. 

• Having a fatigued lifestyle 
• Dizziness and having low energy levels
• Falls and injuries
• Increased risk of meeting with accidents
• Developing dementia (Usually old people face this complication)

If such complications are ignored for longer durations, the person may face hypoglycemia complications that are untreatable such as coma and death as listed above. Know about is honey good for diabetes?.

How can Hypoglycemia be prevented?

Hypoglycemia prevention can be done in several ways. These include:

• Regular checking of Blood Sugar Levels – If you have had Hypoglycemia in the past, then checking blood sugar levels on intervals helps in saving from further occurrence
• Snack Smart – Consider eating a 6-meal diet and snacking at the right time to ensure your blood sugar levels never drop below the normal
• Exercise right – indulge into the right kind of exercises and keep yourself fueled with energy bars, sports drinks, etc to save from Hypoglycemia during exercises
• Draft your lifestyle – Maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle with proper meal ad sleep patterns to save from any Hypoglycemia episodes.

Also read about what is reactive hypoglycemia.

Bottomline

One of the first things that doctors educate newly diagnosed individuals with diabetes is hypoglycemia. Sugar levels below the range of 70m/dL can be classified as low and can be cause for severe concern as they can be fatal. If you notice any of the common symptoms of hypoglycemia, the primary step that you would need to take is to test your blood sugars immediately. In case of doubt as well, it would be a good idea to check your sugars before taking any step towards treatment. Prevent hypoglycemic episodes by understanding their causes to be able to avoid complications associated with them. Also know about fasting blood sugar normal range.

FAQs

Does hypoglycemia go away?

Hypoglycemia, the condition where blood sugar level is lower than normal can be recovered in one or two days by taking steps like dietary changes, increasing sugar levels, and taking medications. However, diabetic hypoglycemia cannot be treated easily if you do not make the necessary diet changes. Intake of good foods for hypoglycemia can help to improve the situation. These foods involve fruit juices, dried fruits, cookies, pretzels, etc.

What causes hypoglycemia without diabetes?

Hypoglycemia can be caused to a non-diabetic person due to numerous causes like drinking excess alcohol, infections, kidney problems, liver diseases, adrenal, and pituitary gland-related problems, etc. If the body produces excess insulin post a meal in a non-diabetic person then such a situation leads to a sudden reduction of blood sugar level causing hypoglycemia. This situation is called reactive hypoglycemia. Following a reactive hypoglycemia diet can easily treat the condition in one or two days.

Can dehydration cause hypoglycemia?

Dehydration can work in a reverse manner during the condition of hypoglycemia. In case you are dehydrated, then the glucose present in your blood is relatively more than the other fluids causing hyperglycemia which is higher sugar levels. However, drinking an ample amount of water daily can help to maintain blood sugar levels as water does not contain any calories.

What are the Warning Signs of Hypoglycemia?

The warning signs of hypoglycemia can be many. Of the many signs, the most common ones include dizziness, difficulty concentrating, looking pale, hunger, feeling weak, sweating, shakiness, irregular heartbeat, nausea, etc. If you notice any of these discussed signs, you can consult your doctor for a timely diagnosis and treatment.

What Foods to Avoid if You Have Hypoglycemia?

People with hypoglycemia should be careful about the food items they have because some can cause significant blood sugar fluctuations. If you have hypoglycemia, you should avoid food items like white bread, dried fruits, fruit-flavored yogurt, trans fat, honey, sweetened breakfast cereal, sugary drinks, etc.

What is dangerously low blood sugar?

Severely low blood sugar levels are when your sugar levels fall below 54 mg/dl. You may experience low sugar level symptoms such as weakness, inability to walk and see clearly, confusion, etc. If you experience these you must immediately take measures to bring sugar levels to a safe range. 

Is hypoglycemia a sign of diabetes?

Hypoglycemia which is a condition where sugar levels fall beyond the normal range is usually related to diabetes. Reactive hypoglycemia is generally a sign of diabetes. However, at times people without diabetes may also experience hypoglycemia. Also know about ayurvedic medicine for diabetes.

what it is and how to avoid problems

Contents

• 1 Hypoglycemia in diabetes mellitus: symptoms, causes, treatment and prevention
  • 1.1 Hypoglycemia in diabetes mellitus: what it is and how to avoid problems
    • 1.1.1 Concept hypoglycemia
  • 1.2 Symptoms of hypoglycemia
  • 1.3 Causes of hypoglycemia
  • 1.4 How to avoid hypoglycemia in diabetes
    • 1.4.1 1. Monitor blood glucose
    • 1.4.2 2. Follow your doctor’s advice
    • 1.4.3 3. Eat right
    • 1.4.4 4. Take your medications
    • 1.4.5 5. Be prepared for possible episodes of hypoglycemia

    9 0010

  • 1.5 Diet advice with diabetes
    • 1.5.1 1. Reduce consumption of simple carbohydrates
    • 1.5.2 2. Regular consumption of protein foods
    • 1.5.3 3. Give up fast carbohydrates
    • 1.5.4 4. Increase consumption of vegetables
    • 1.5.5 5. Keep a healthy diet
  • 1.6 Exercise for diabetes
    • 1.6.1 The importance of physical activity for people with diabetes
    • 1.6.2 Optimal types of exercise for people with diabetes 90 010
    • 1.6. 3 Exercise Precautions for Diabetic Patients
    • 1.6.4 Benefits of Exercise for Diabetic Patients
  • 1.7 How to Control Blood Sugar
  • 1.8 Medicines for the treatment of hypoglycemia in diabetes mellitus
    • 1.8.1 Glucagon
    • 1.8.2 Glucose
    • 1.8.3 Alpha-glycosidase inhibitors
    • 1.8.4 In sulin
    • 1. 8.5 Oral drugs
    • 1.8.6 Adjustment of dosage of drugs
    • 1.8.7 How to choose a drug for hypoglycemia?
  • 1.9 Q&A:
    • • 1.9.0.1 What is hypoglycemia?
      • 1.9.0.2 What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?
      • 1.9.0.3 How to avoid hypoglycemia?
      • 1.9.0.4 How to quickly increase glucose levels in hypoglycemia?
      • 1.9.0.5 Can hypoglycemia cause serious problems?
      • 1.9.0.6 Can I drive a car with hypoglycemia?
  • 1.10 What to do if symptoms of hypoglycemia occur?
  • 1.11 Related videos:

Hypoglycemia in diabetes mellitus – symptoms, causes and ways to prevent. Learn how to properly control your blood glucose levels and prevent possible complications.

Diabetes mellitus is a serious chronic disease characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. In this case, the hormone insulin cannot properly convert sugar from the blood into energy. A person with diabetes should monitor their sugar levels constantly to avoid hyper- or hypoglycemia.

Hypoglycemia is a condition that occurs when blood sugar levels are low. It is worth noting that it is a serious complication of diabetes and can lead to serious consequences. In hypoglycemia, the brain does not receive enough energy, which can lead to seizures, personality changes, and in extreme cases, coma and death.

In order to avoid hypoglycaemia in diabetes mellitus, regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential. Periodic medication can help keep it at the right level. However, it is even more important to monitor diet and physical activity, which can significantly affect blood sugar levels. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, making a daily and nutritional plan, as well as regular monitoring of sugar levels are the main measures to prevent hypoglycemia in diabetes mellitus.

Hypoglycemia in diabetes mellitus: what it is and how to avoid problems

Understanding hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is a condition where blood glucose levels drop to very low levels. In people with diabetes, hypoglycemia can occur when overdosing on insulin or other medications, not eating enough, not being physically active, or being stressed.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia can range from mild trembling and sweating to more severe symptoms such as dizziness, severe hunger pain and incoordination.

It is important to know how to prevent hypoglycemia, as blood glucose drops below a certain point can lead to convulsions, loss of consciousness and even coma.

• Check your blood glucose regularly and monitor the results.
• Follow the correct medication regimen and dosage.
• Exercise and diet moderately and regularly.
• In the event of symptoms of hypoglycemia, a sugary drink or food, such as fruit or juice containing rapidly digestible carbohydrates, should be promptly consumed.

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Symptoms of hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is a condition where the blood glucose level is too low. Symptoms of hypoglycemia may appear when the glucose level drops below 3.9 mmol/L. This condition can occur in people with diabetes who take insulin or other antidiabetic medications.

The main symptoms of hypoglycemia include:

1. Anxiety and nervousness – a person may become more irritable and restless, even if he is usually calm.
2. Rapid Pulse and Sweating – Pulse may increase, heart rate may increase, and skin may sweat.
3. Dizziness and weakness – The person may feel weak and insecure, as well as experience dizziness and incoordination.
4. Hunger and shivering – The person may feel hungry and want to eat, as well as feel shivering and unable to control their movements.

How to avoid hypoglycemia:

1. Take your medicines or insulin correctly as directed by your doctor.

2. Eat the right foods and don’t skip meals.

3. Find out which foods quickly raise blood glucose and avoid them in large quantities.

4. Learn how to manage stress and avoid emotional overstrain.

5. Maintain an active lifestyle and exercise regularly.

Causes of hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is the level of sugar in the blood that drops below normal. Hypoglycemia can occur in people with diabetes if blood sugar drops too quickly or too low. This can be caused not only by an excess amount of insulin, but also by an insufficient amount of carbohydrates in the diet or excessive exercise.

Too much insulin can occur if a person gives themselves too much insulin than they need. This can happen if a person doses insulin incorrectly, doesn’t follow a schedule, or skips meals. Excess insulin can lead to a rapid drop in blood sugar levels and cause hypoglycemia.

Inadequate intake of carbohydrates can also cause hypoglycemia. Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for the body, and if not enough carbohydrates are supplied to the body, the body can begin to break down glucose stores in the liver and muscles, which can lower blood sugar levels and cause hypoglycemia.

Excessive exercise can also lead to hypoglycemia. Physical exercise increases the body’s need for energy, but excessive exercise combined with insufficient carbohydrate intake can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and hypoglycemia.

How to avoid hypoglycemia in diabetes

1. Monitor blood glucose levels

Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is one of the main ways to avoid hypoglycemia. Do not forget about the need to measure the level of glucose before and after meals, before and after exercise, as well as at other times of the day.

2. Follow your doctor’s advice

A diabetes care provider will prescribe an individual treatment plan based on the characteristics of the disease and the patient’s general condition. Following your doctor’s recommendations will help you avoid problems with hypoglycemia.

3. Eat Right

Good nutrition is a key factor in controlling blood glucose levels in diabetes. Snacking between meals should be avoided and food should be eaten in small portions. It is also worth abandoning foods containing a large amount of sugar and fast carbohydrates.

4. Take your medications

Take your medications exactly as directed by your doctor. In this case, you should not independently change the dosage or interrupt the course of treatment.

5. Be prepared for possible episodes of hypoglycemia

When planning physical activity or long trips, or when changing your usual diet, it is worthwhile to discuss with your doctor the possible risks and precautions for hypoglycemia. It is also necessary to carry suitable medications to quickly increase blood glucose levels.

Diabetes Diet Advice

1. Reduce intake of simple carbohydrates

Simple carbohydrates found in sugary drinks and sweets cause blood sugar levels to spike. It is recommended to reduce their intake and replace them with complex carbohydrates such as vegetables, fruits, whole grain breads and cereals.

2. Regular consumption of protein foods

Protein foods take longer for the body to digest, which keeps blood sugar levels stable. It is recommended to regularly consume protein foods such as meat, fish, eggs, legumes.

3. Eliminate fast carbohydrates

Fast carbohydrates found in white breads, sweets, cookies cause a sharp rise in blood sugar levels and can lead to hypoglycemia. It is recommended to completely or partially abandon fast carbohydrates and replace them with complex carbohydrates.

4. Increase your consumption of vegetables

Vegetables contain nutrients and complex carbohydrates that are beneficial for the body in diabetes. It is recommended to increase your intake of vegetables and include them in your daily diet.

5. Eating regularly

Eating small meals regularly and often helps to maintain a stable blood sugar level. It is recommended to observe the mode of food intake, distribute it into several doses during the day.

Examples of foods recommended for diabetes Food category Examples of foods

Diabetes exercise

The importance of physical activity for patients with diabetes

Maintaining an active lifestyle is one of the main aspects of diabetes management. Regular physical exercise helps control blood glucose levels and improves the overall well-being of the patient. However, before starting training, you should consult with your doctor to assess your physical ability and set up an individual training program.

Optimal exercise for diabetic patients

For diabetic patients, it is recommended to choose physical activities that do not drastically increase blood glucose levels and do not damage the nervous system and blood vessels. This can include moderate exercise such as brisk walking, cycling, yoga, and swimming. It is important to keep in mind the regularity of training and the appropriateness of the training program for personal needs and abilities.

Exercise Precautions for Diabetic Patients

Patients with diabetes should ensure that their blood glucose levels are constantly monitored during exercise, for example by performing mandatory glucose tests before and after exercise. It is also important to have an ampoule of glucagon with you in order to quickly increase the glucose level in case of hypoglycemia. It is also necessary to monitor the body’s water balance and control the level of glucose in the blood after many days of training, because. they can lead to dehydration and hyperglycemia.

Benefits of exercise for patients with diabetes

Regular exercise for patients with diabetes improves heart function, reduces the likelihood of microangiopathies, and increases resistance to stress. They can also improve blood glucose control and lead to a reduction in the dose of insulin and other medications, as well as an improvement in the patient’s quality of life.

How to properly control your blood sugar levels

To control your blood sugar levels with diabetes, you need to measure it regularly with a glucometer. This will allow you to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and take action if the sugar level is out of range.

It is also important to watch your food intake and take the necessary doses of insulin or other drugs to lower your blood sugar. It is recommended to eat a diet rich in fiber and protein and avoid carbohydrates and foods with a high glycemic index.

In addition, it is necessary to monitor physical activity, as moderate exercise helps to reduce blood sugar levels. However, before starting sports, it is recommended to consult a doctor and adjust the dose of insulin or other drugs.

If blood sugar levels are out of range, immediate action should be taken to avoid hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. In case of hypoglycemia, it is recommended to consume fast-digesting carbohydrates such as fruits or sweets. In the case of hyperglycemia, it is necessary to take an additional dose of insulin or other drugs based on the doctor’s recommendations.

It is important to understand that blood sugar control is a key aspect of diabetes management to avoid serious complications and maintain good health.

Hypoglycemia medicines for diabetes

Glucagon

Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood glucose levels. It can be used to treat hypoglycemia, when blood sugar drops below normal.

Glucose

Glucose is a fast-acting agent for raising blood glucose levels and treating hypoglycemia. It is often used as first aid for severe hypoglycemia.

Alpha-glycosidase inhibitors

Alpha-glycosidase inhibitors are drugs that slow down and reduce the absorption of carbohydrates in the intestines. They may be helpful in preventing hypoglycemia, especially after meals.

Insulin

Insulin is a hormone that lowers blood glucose levels. With an excess of insulin, blood sugar levels can drop to hypoglycemic values. But if blood sugar is too low, insulin can be used to raise it.

Oral drugs

Oral drugs for diabetes mellitus can be used to treat hypoglycemia. They work by lowering blood glucose levels. However, in some cases, they can cause hypoglycemia and lead to high blood sugar levels.

Adjustment of drug dosage

It is important to remember that if hypoglycemia occurs, the dose of the drug must be adapted. Sometimes, by lowering the dose of hypoglycemic drugs, hypoglycemia can be prevented.

How to choose a drug for hypoglycemia?

The choice of medication to treat hypoglycemia will depend on blood sugar levels, type of diabetes, and other individual factors. Most importantly, you need to communicate with your doctor and follow his recommendations.

Q&A:

What is hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia is a condition that occurs when blood glucose levels drop below normal. In people with diabetes, this can occur as a result of overinjection of insulin or by increasing physical activity without increasing the dose of insulin.

What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?

Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include: dizziness, tremors, sweating, fast pulse, hunger, irritability, slow speech, weakness, vision changes and convulsions. If you notice these or other symptoms, be sure to measure your blood glucose levels, and if the level is too low, take action.

How to avoid hypoglycemia?

To avoid hypoglycemia, follow your doctor’s recommendations for taking insulin, control your blood glucose, and consume a limited amount of fast carbohydrates such as fruit or glucose. It is also important to avoid too strenuous exercise.

How to quickly increase glucose levels in case of hypoglycemia?

The quickest way to raise your glucose levels is by eating a sweet or fast-carbohydrate food such as hard candy, juice, or glucose. If hypoglycemia is caused by taking an excessive dose of insulin, you should consult your doctor about the possibility of reducing the dose.

Can hypoglycemia cause serious problems?

Yes, if hypoglycemia is not detected and treated promptly, it can lead to convulsions, unconsciousness and, in extreme cases, coma. Therefore, it is important to monitor the level of glucose in the blood in a timely manner and take measures to maintain it at an optimal level.

Can I drive if I have hypoglycemia?

No, if you have symptoms of hypoglycemia such as dizziness or weakness, it is not recommended to drive. Better stop the car and grab some fast-acting carbs.

What should I do if I have symptoms of hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia is a dangerous condition when blood sugar drops below normal. If you have signs of hypoglycemia, you need to take certain actions:

• Take sugar immediately. If you don’t have a quick source of carbohydrates with you, you can use sugar, glucose, or honey. Medicines that raise blood sugar levels can be effective, but they should only be used on the advice of a doctor.
• Sit down and wait a few minutes. Wait until your blood sugar returns to normal. If you don’t feel better after 15 minutes, repeat the carbohydrate intake.
• Avoid physical activity. Physical activity can lower blood sugar, so do not exercise within a few hours of hypoglycemia.
• Monitor your blood sugar levels. If you have frequent episodes of hypoglycemia, you need to be especially careful with the intake of carbohydrates and the frequency of checking blood sugar levels.

If you feel extremely unwell or have fainted, seek medical attention immediately.

Related videos:

How to recognize and treat hypoglycemia

Likbez

Health

September 28, 2019

Even going to the gym can lead to a deadly drop in blood sugar.

What is hypoglycemia

If you translate this word from ancient Greek literally, you get something like “unsweetened blood”. Actually, the ancient Greek Aesculapius – the discoverers of this condition – really determined hypoglycemia by taste.

Modern physicians give a more physiological formulation. Hypoglycemia is a condition in which the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood drops dramatically. And the liquid really becomes less sweet. But, of course, that’s not the problem.

Glucose is the main source of energy in our body. When it is in abundance, we feel cheerful and full of energy. But if the blood sugar level drops, the organs and tissues do not have enough nutrition. Sometimes catastrophic.

Why hypoglycemia is dangerous

If your glucose level falls below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), or 3.9 millimoles per liter (mmol/L), you need to respond immediately. Fortunately, most often it’s easy to help: to return sugar to normal, it’s enough to give a person food or drink containing a large amount of fast carbohydrates, which will turn into glucose in the body as quickly as possible – a couple of cubes of refined sugar, candy, a handful of raisins, sweet soda or juice .

But if you ignore the drop in glucose levels, serious health problems are possible – up to loss of consciousness, convulsions, damage to the heart, blood vessels, brain and the development of hypoglycemic coma.

What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia

It is not difficult to recognize an abnormal condition: it has quite characteristic signs that occur one after another as glucose deficiency increases. First, the following symptoms appear:

• unexplained anxiety, irritability;
• feeling of hunger;
• slight nausea;
• palpitations;
• pale skin;
• sweating;
• slight dizziness;
• weakness;
• trembling fingers;
• feeling as if lips and tongue were going numb.

If the sugar level continues to fall, other signs will be added:

• loss of concentration;
• darkening of the eyes;
• confusion;
• and so on until convulsions and fainting.

When to seek immediate help

Call your doctor (physician or endocrinologist) or, depending on the severity of the situation, dial 103 for an ambulance if:

• you are alone and feel like you are about to pass out;
• symptoms of hypoglycemia increase and are not relieved by drinking juice or eating chocolate;
• a person with signs of glucose deficiency has lost consciousness before your eyes;
• you suffer from diabetes and experience increasing symptoms of low sugar when you do not have carbohydrate foods or necessary medicines at hand.

Why hypoglycemia occurs and what to do about it

Hypoglycemia is good (if I may say so) because it is relatively easy to reverse. But it’s even easier to avoid it altogether. To do this, you need to understand what causes this condition.

1. Taking certain medicines for diabetes

In this disease, the blood sugar level rises. This is due to a lack (type 1 diabetes) or body resistance (type 2 diabetes) to insulin, the “key” that lets glucose into cells. Since the organs and tissues cannot take sugar from the bloodstream, the blood becomes supersaturated with glucose. This condition is called hyperglycemia. It is no less, but rather more harmful than hypoglycemia.

To prevent hyperglycemia, people with diabetes take insulin or other drugs that lower blood sugar. Accidental overdose of these medications can lead to a dramatic drop in glucose levels.

What to do

Be careful about the doses of medicines you take. If attacks of hypoglycemia still recur, be sure to tell your endocrinologist watching you about them. He will adjust the dose or possibly prescribe an alternative drug.

2. Malnutrition

Blood glucose drops in people who regularly skip meals (such as breakfast), are on a strict diet, or have an eating disorder. It is especially dangerous to restrict yourself in food for those who suffer from diabetes. Immediately after the injection of insulin, you must definitely eat something – at least an apple. Insulin causes cells to literally suck glucose out of the blood, and if not replenished, you can bring yourself to an attack of hypoglycemia.

What to do

A calorie deficit does not necessarily lead to hypoglycemia. But if this happens, reconsider the diet. Try to eat small meals, but regularly – every few hours. And don’t forget to snack right after taking your insulin if you’re diabetic.

Also stay hydrated. Its symptoms (dizziness, nervousness, darkening of the eyes) are often similar to those of hypoglycemia.

3. Exercise on an empty stomach

If you haven’t eaten for a long time, your blood sugar levels will be low. And vigorous exercise in the gym will force your body to use even more glucose.

What to do

If you notice the first symptoms of hypoglycemia, immediately reduce the load, for example, reduce the number of repetitions or stop the workout altogether. And remember for the future: to avoid a drop in sugar, it is important to eat one and a half to two hours before sports.

4. Excessive alcohol consumption

If you drink a lot of alcohol without snacking, your liver will be too busy detoxifying. This will prevent it from releasing glucose into the blood, which can lead to hypoglycemia.

What to do

Try to stop drinking. Or, limit your alcohol intake as much as possible.

5. Diseases of the internal organs

Regular episodes of hypoglycemia can be caused by:

• A tumor of the pancreas (insulinoma), which causes an overproduction of insulin in the body.
• Liver damage – for example, the same hepatitis.
• Diseases of the kidneys. Because of this, the body may not quickly remove drugs from the body. And the accumulation of certain drugs in the blood can dramatically reduce glucose levels.

What to do

If hypoglycemic symptoms recur regularly, although you try to eat normally and do not have diabetes, be sure to report them to your physician.