Dizziness and Diabetes

Because diabetes is such a diverse disease with many complications, it can cause dizziness in many ways by affecting different parts of the body.

Dizziness is an episode of unsteadiness and unbalance as a result of something affecting the brain or ears.

However, dizziness can also be a symptom of many things other than diabetes. So if you are experiencing recurrent dizzy spells, you should contact your doctor who will be able to diagnose the cause.

Causes of dizziness

A dizzy spell can be brought on by many things, but in cases of diabetes the most common causes are:

Low blood pressure

Dizziness can be cause by the heart’s inability to pump blood up to the brain sufficiently, especially when suddenly standing up from a sitting or a lying position.

As the blood momentarily fails to reach the brain, a spinning sensation, unsteadiness or even fainting can occur.

Dehydration

High blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) can cause polyuria, which in turn can lead to dehydration by passing too much fluid out of the body in an attempt to remove excess glucose.

With low levels of water in the body, the brain may struggle to function correctly and cause light headedness.

Hypoglycemia

Having a low amount of sugar in your blood (hypoglycemia) can lead to dizziness by causing the brain cells to malfunction.

Certain medications

Some medications, including those used to treat people with diabetes, can cause dizzy spells. The instruction leaflet that comes with a medicine will list any possible side effects of the drug.

When to see your doctor

If you are suffering from bouts of dizziness that are recurrent or persistent you should go and see a doctor. They will likely ask questions to gauge whether there is a pattern to the feelings of dizziness, so keeping a record of dizzy spells prior to your appointment may be helpful.

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Symptoms, causes, and treatment

Hypoglycemia refers to low levels of sugar, or glucose, in the blood. Hypoglycemia is not a disease, but it can indicate a health problem.

All the body’s cells, including the brain, need energy to function. Glucose supplies energy to the body. Insulin, a hormone, enables the cells to absorb and use it.

Signs of low blood sugar include hunger, trembling, heart racing, nausea, and sweating. In severe cases, it can lead to coma and death.

Hypoglycemia can occur with several conditions, but it most commonly happens as a reaction to medications, such as insulin. People with diabetes use insulin to treat high blood sugar.

Hypoglycemia happens when there is not enough glucose, or sugar, in the blood.

The National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), note that symptoms usually appear when blood sugar levels are below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

However, this number can vary between individuals.

Blood glucose monitors are available for purchase online.

People with mild hypoglycemia may experience the following early symptoms:

• hunger
• tremor or trembling
• sweating
• shaking
• a pale face
• heart palpitations
• rapid or irregular heart rate
• dizziness and weakness
• blurred vision
• confusion

Severe hypoglycemia may involve:

• weakness and tiredness
• poor concentration
• irritability and nervousness
• confusion
• irrational or argumentative behavior and personality changes
• tingling in the mouth
• coordination problems

Complications

If a person does not take action, they may have:

• difficulty eating or drinking
• seizures
• a loss of consciousness
• coma

Severe hypoglycemia can be life-threatening.

A person who regularly experiences hypoglycemia may become unaware that it is happening or getting worse. They will not notice the warning signs, and this can lead to severe and possibly fatal complications.

Hypoglycemia is often a sign of poorly managed diabetes.

Hypoglycemia can occur for various reasons.

Blood sugar regulation

The digestive system breaks down carbohydrates from food. One of the molecules this creates is glucose, the body’s main source of energy.

Glucose enters the bloodstream after we eat. However, glucose needs insulin — a hormone that the pancreas produces — before it can enter a cell. In other words, even if there is plenty of glucose available, a cell will starve of energy if there is no insulin.

After eating, the pancreas automatically releases the right amount of insulin to move the glucose in blood into the cells. As glucose enters the cells, the blood sugar levels fall.

Any extra glucose goes into the liver and muscles in the form of glycogen, or stored glucose. The body can use this glucose later when it needs more energy.

Insulin is responsible for bringing high blood sugar levels back to normal.

If glucose levels fall because an individual has not eaten for a while, the pancreas secretes glucagon — another hormone — which triggers the breakdown of stored glycogen into glucose.

The body then releases the glycogen into the bloodstream, bringing glucose levels back up.

Hypoglycemia and diabetes

Share on PinterestTesting blood sugar regularly can help those with diabetes to prevent hypoglycemia.

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes involve a problem with insulin.

Type 1 diabetes: Damage to the cells that normally produce insulin means that the body cannot produce insulin.

Type 2 diabetes: The body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin or the pancreas may not release enough insulin.

In both types of diabetes, the cells do not get enough energy.

People with type 1 diabetes and some people with type 2 need to take insulin or other drugs to reduce their blood sugar levels.

If the dose is too high, blood sugar levels can fall too far, leading to hypoglycemia.

Hypoglycemia can also occur if the person exercises more than usual or does not eat enough.

A person does not need to increase their dose to have too much insulin in their body. It may be that the insulin they took was more than their body needed at that moment.

According to the NIDDK, both insulin and two other drugs can result in hypoglycemia. These drugs are sulfonylureas and meglitinides.

Hypoglycemia in children: Pediatric ketotic hypoglycemia

Some children experience pediatric ketotic hypoglycemia, involving low blood sugar levels and high levels of a substance known as ketones.

Doctors do not know exactly why this happens, but causes may include:

• metabolism problems that the child was born
• conditions that lead to excess production of certain hormones

Symptoms usually appear after the age of 6 months and disappear before adolescence.

They include:

• fatigue
• headaches
• pale skin
• confusion
• dizziness
• irritability
• mood changes
• clumsy or jerky movements

If a child shows any of the above signs or symptoms, they should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Insulin autoimmune syndrome

Another possible cause of hypoglycemia is insulin autoimmune syndrome, a rare disease that happens when the body’s immune system attacks insulin, mistaking it for an unwanted substance.

Symptoms tend to appear suddenly, according to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD). They often go away after a few months, but sometimes they come back again.

Treatment can usually control the symptoms.

Symptoms and treatment are similar to those for hypoglycemia due to other causes.

Other causes

People may experience hypoglycemia for other reasons.

Some medications: Quinine, a drug that prevents malaria, can trigger hypoglycemia. High doses of salicylates, used to treat rheumatic disease, or propranolol for hypertension (high blood pressure) may also cause blood sugar levels to drop. It can also happen when a person takes diabetes medication without having diabetes.

Alcohol consumption: Drinking large amounts of alcohol can cause the liver to stop releasing stored glucose into the bloodstream.

Some liver diseases: Drug-induced hepatitis can lead to hypoglycemia, because it affects the liver.

Kidney disorders: People with a kidney disorder may have problems excreting medications. This can result in low blood sugar levels.

Not eating enough: People with eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, may experience dramatic falls in their blood sugar levels. Fasting or missing a meal may lead to low blood sugar levels.

Insulinoma: A tumor in the pancreas can cause the pancreas to produce too much insulin.

Increased activity: Increasing levels of physical activity can lower blood sugar levels for some time.

Endocrine problems: Some disorders of the adrenal and pituitary glands can lead to hypoglycemia. This is more common in children than adults.

Reactive, or postprandial, hypoglycemia: The pancreas produces too much insulin after a meal.

Tumors: Rarely, a tumor in a part of the body other than the pancreas can cause hypoglycemia.

Severe illness: Some diseases, such as cancer, can affect many different organs, including the pancreas. This can lead to hypoglycemia.

Anybody who experiences the symptoms of hypoglycemia but does not know why should see a doctor.

The doctor will probably:

• order a blood test to measure blood sugar levels
• ask about symptoms, and whether they improve after blood sugar levels return to normal
• check the patient’s medical history and any medications they are taking
• ask the person about their alcohol consumption

Whipple’s triad

A collection of three criteria, known as Whipple’s criteria, can suggest that symptoms stem from a pancreatic tumor.

The three criteria of Whipple’s Triad are as follows:

• Signs and symptoms indicate hypoglycemia.
• When symptoms occur, a blood test shows low plasma glucose levels.
• When glucose rises to normal levels, symptoms go away.

At the time of a visit to the doctor, a person may not have symptoms. The doctor may ask them to fast for a time, usually overnight. This allows hypoglycemia to occur so that the doctor can make a diagnosis.

Some people may have to spend time in the hospital and fast for longer.

If symptoms appear after eating, they will need another glucose test after eating.

Learn more here about pancreatic cancer.

A person who notices the signs of hypoglycemia should immediately consume:

• a glucose tablet
• a sugar lump
• a candy
• a glass of fruit juice

These can bring rapid results. After this, they should eat slower-release carbohydrates, such as cereals, bread, rice, or fruit.

Glucose tablets are available to purchase online.

The next step is to seek treatment for any underlying cause,

For diabetes

A person with diabetes should check their blood glucose and treat the hypoglycemia, then wait 15–20 minutes and check their blood sugar again.

If blood glucose levels are still low, the person should repeat the process. They should eat some glucose, wait about 15–20 minutes, then check their blood sugar again.

People with diabetes need to keep to regular eating times. This will help to keep blood glucose levels stable

Severe symptoms

If symptoms are severe, and the individual cannot treat themselves, somebody else will need to apply honey, treacle, jam, or Glucogel to the inside of the cheeks and then gently massage the outside of the cheeks.

The person should start feeling better within 10–20 minutes.

Losing consciousness

If the person loses consciousness, someone should place them in the recovery position, and a qualified health professional should administer a glucagon injection.

If this is not possible, someone should call for emergency services to take the person to the emergency department of a hospital.

It is important not to place food or drink into the mouth of an unconscious person, as it could block the airways.

Share on PinterestComplex carbohydrates, such as brown rice, can help prevent hypoglycemia.

A number of dietary factors may help control hypoglycemia.

Low-sugar diet: A low intake of simple sugars and a high intake of complex carbohydrates is helpful. Complex carbs take longer to absorb, and this can help prevent glucose swings.

Small, frequent meals: Eating small meals at least three times a day can help maintain blood sugar levels.

Find out more about counting carbs in our dedicated article here.

Some people have recommended a low-sugar, high-protein diet for people with hypoglycemia, but this may reduce glucose tolerance and add unwanted fat to the diet.

Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia both relate to blood sugar levels, but they are not the same.

Hypoglycemia: There is too little glucose in the blood, below 70 mg/dL.

Hyperglycemia: Glucose levels are too high, above 126 mg/L when fasting or 200 mg/dL 2 hours after eating.

Eating regular meals that include complex carbohydrates can prevent hypoglycemia for most people.

Those with a risk of hypoglycemia due to a medical condition should also:

Follow a treatment plan: It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and seek help if symptoms change.

Checking blood glucose levels: Those at risk should check their blood sugar levels regularly and know how to recognize the symptoms.

Alcohol: Follow the daily alcohol limits that a doctor recommends and avoid drinking alcohol without food.

Exercise: Eat a carbohydrate-rich snack before exercising and be aware of how exercise can impact blood sugar levels.

Taking care when sick: Vomiting, for example, can prevent the body from absorbing enough energy.

Being ready: Carry a container of sugary fruit juice or a candy bar in case symptoms appear.

Letting people know: Those who are prone to low blood sugar should let friends, colleagues, and family members know.

Medical ID: Carrying a form of ID or medical bracelet will enable healthcare providers, emergency services, and others to know what to do sooner.

Hypoglycemia can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, and, in severe cases, a loss of consciousness.

People with a number of medical conditions, including diabetes, may have a higher risk of hypoglycemia.

It is important to know how to recognize the symptoms and to be ready to take action if they occur.

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Symptoms, causes, and treatment

Hypoglycemia refers to low levels of sugar, or glucose, in the blood. Hypoglycemia is not a disease, but it can indicate a health problem.

All the body’s cells, including the brain, need energy to function. Glucose supplies energy to the body. Insulin, a hormone, enables the cells to absorb and use it.

Signs of low blood sugar include hunger, trembling, heart racing, nausea, and sweating. In severe cases, it can lead to coma and death.

Hypoglycemia can occur with several conditions, but it most commonly happens as a reaction to medications, such as insulin. People with diabetes use insulin to treat high blood sugar.

Hypoglycemia happens when there is not enough glucose, or sugar, in the blood.

The National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), note that symptoms usually appear when blood sugar levels are below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

However, this number can vary between individuals.

Blood glucose monitors are available for purchase online.

People with mild hypoglycemia may experience the following early symptoms:

• hunger
• tremor or trembling
• sweating
• shaking
• a pale face
• heart palpitations
• rapid or irregular heart rate
• dizziness and weakness
• blurred vision
• confusion

Severe hypoglycemia may involve:

• weakness and tiredness
• poor concentration
• irritability and nervousness
• confusion
• irrational or argumentative behavior and personality changes
• tingling in the mouth
• coordination problems

Complications

If a person does not take action, they may have:

• difficulty eating or drinking
• seizures
• a loss of consciousness
• coma

Severe hypoglycemia can be life-threatening.

A person who regularly experiences hypoglycemia may become unaware that it is happening or getting worse. They will not notice the warning signs, and this can lead to severe and possibly fatal complications.

Hypoglycemia is often a sign of poorly managed diabetes.

Hypoglycemia can occur for various reasons.

Blood sugar regulation

The digestive system breaks down carbohydrates from food. One of the molecules this creates is glucose, the body’s main source of energy.

Glucose enters the bloodstream after we eat. However, glucose needs insulin — a hormone that the pancreas produces — before it can enter a cell. In other words, even if there is plenty of glucose available, a cell will starve of energy if there is no insulin.

After eating, the pancreas automatically releases the right amount of insulin to move the glucose in blood into the cells. As glucose enters the cells, the blood sugar levels fall.

Any extra glucose goes into the liver and muscles in the form of glycogen, or stored glucose. The body can use this glucose later when it needs more energy.

Insulin is responsible for bringing high blood sugar levels back to normal.

If glucose levels fall because an individual has not eaten for a while, the pancreas secretes glucagon — another hormone — which triggers the breakdown of stored glycogen into glucose.

The body then releases the glycogen into the bloodstream, bringing glucose levels back up.

Hypoglycemia and diabetes

Share on PinterestTesting blood sugar regularly can help those with diabetes to prevent hypoglycemia.

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes involve a problem with insulin.

Type 1 diabetes: Damage to the cells that normally produce insulin means that the body cannot produce insulin.

Type 2 diabetes: The body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin or the pancreas may not release enough insulin.

In both types of diabetes, the cells do not get enough energy.

People with type 1 diabetes and some people with type 2 need to take insulin or other drugs to reduce their blood sugar levels.

If the dose is too high, blood sugar levels can fall too far, leading to hypoglycemia.

Hypoglycemia can also occur if the person exercises more than usual or does not eat enough.

A person does not need to increase their dose to have too much insulin in their body. It may be that the insulin they took was more than their body needed at that moment.

According to the NIDDK, both insulin and two other drugs can result in hypoglycemia. These drugs are sulfonylureas and meglitinides.

Hypoglycemia in children: Pediatric ketotic hypoglycemia

Some children experience pediatric ketotic hypoglycemia, involving low blood sugar levels and high levels of a substance known as ketones.

Doctors do not know exactly why this happens, but causes may include:

• metabolism problems that the child was born
• conditions that lead to excess production of certain hormones

Symptoms usually appear after the age of 6 months and disappear before adolescence.

They include:

• fatigue
• headaches
• pale skin
• confusion
• dizziness
• irritability
• mood changes
• clumsy or jerky movements

If a child shows any of the above signs or symptoms, they should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Insulin autoimmune syndrome

Another possible cause of hypoglycemia is insulin autoimmune syndrome, a rare disease that happens when the body’s immune system attacks insulin, mistaking it for an unwanted substance.

Symptoms tend to appear suddenly, according to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD). They often go away after a few months, but sometimes they come back again.

Treatment can usually control the symptoms.

Symptoms and treatment are similar to those for hypoglycemia due to other causes.

Other causes

People may experience hypoglycemia for other reasons.

Some medications: Quinine, a drug that prevents malaria, can trigger hypoglycemia. High doses of salicylates, used to treat rheumatic disease, or propranolol for hypertension (high blood pressure) may also cause blood sugar levels to drop. It can also happen when a person takes diabetes medication without having diabetes.

Alcohol consumption: Drinking large amounts of alcohol can cause the liver to stop releasing stored glucose into the bloodstream.

Some liver diseases: Drug-induced hepatitis can lead to hypoglycemia, because it affects the liver.

Kidney disorders: People with a kidney disorder may have problems excreting medications. This can result in low blood sugar levels.

Not eating enough: People with eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, may experience dramatic falls in their blood sugar levels. Fasting or missing a meal may lead to low blood sugar levels.

Insulinoma: A tumor in the pancreas can cause the pancreas to produce too much insulin.

Increased activity: Increasing levels of physical activity can lower blood sugar levels for some time.

Endocrine problems: Some disorders of the adrenal and pituitary glands can lead to hypoglycemia. This is more common in children than adults.

Reactive, or postprandial, hypoglycemia: The pancreas produces too much insulin after a meal.

Tumors: Rarely, a tumor in a part of the body other than the pancreas can cause hypoglycemia.

Severe illness: Some diseases, such as cancer, can affect many different organs, including the pancreas. This can lead to hypoglycemia.

Anybody who experiences the symptoms of hypoglycemia but does not know why should see a doctor.

The doctor will probably:

• order a blood test to measure blood sugar levels
• ask about symptoms, and whether they improve after blood sugar levels return to normal
• check the patient’s medical history and any medications they are taking
• ask the person about their alcohol consumption

Whipple’s triad

A collection of three criteria, known as Whipple’s criteria, can suggest that symptoms stem from a pancreatic tumor.

The three criteria of Whipple’s Triad are as follows:

• Signs and symptoms indicate hypoglycemia.
• When symptoms occur, a blood test shows low plasma glucose levels.
• When glucose rises to normal levels, symptoms go away.

At the time of a visit to the doctor, a person may not have symptoms. The doctor may ask them to fast for a time, usually overnight. This allows hypoglycemia to occur so that the doctor can make a diagnosis.

Some people may have to spend time in the hospital and fast for longer.

If symptoms appear after eating, they will need another glucose test after eating.

Learn more here about pancreatic cancer.

A person who notices the signs of hypoglycemia should immediately consume:

• a glucose tablet
• a sugar lump
• a candy
• a glass of fruit juice

These can bring rapid results. After this, they should eat slower-release carbohydrates, such as cereals, bread, rice, or fruit.

Glucose tablets are available to purchase online.

The next step is to seek treatment for any underlying cause,

For diabetes

A person with diabetes should check their blood glucose and treat the hypoglycemia, then wait 15–20 minutes and check their blood sugar again.

If blood glucose levels are still low, the person should repeat the process. They should eat some glucose, wait about 15–20 minutes, then check their blood sugar again.

People with diabetes need to keep to regular eating times. This will help to keep blood glucose levels stable

Severe symptoms

If symptoms are severe, and the individual cannot treat themselves, somebody else will need to apply honey, treacle, jam, or Glucogel to the inside of the cheeks and then gently massage the outside of the cheeks.

The person should start feeling better within 10–20 minutes.

Losing consciousness

If the person loses consciousness, someone should place them in the recovery position, and a qualified health professional should administer a glucagon injection.

If this is not possible, someone should call for emergency services to take the person to the emergency department of a hospital.

It is important not to place food or drink into the mouth of an unconscious person, as it could block the airways.

Share on PinterestComplex carbohydrates, such as brown rice, can help prevent hypoglycemia.

A number of dietary factors may help control hypoglycemia.

Low-sugar diet: A low intake of simple sugars and a high intake of complex carbohydrates is helpful. Complex carbs take longer to absorb, and this can help prevent glucose swings.

Small, frequent meals: Eating small meals at least three times a day can help maintain blood sugar levels.

Find out more about counting carbs in our dedicated article here.

Some people have recommended a low-sugar, high-protein diet for people with hypoglycemia, but this may reduce glucose tolerance and add unwanted fat to the diet.

Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia both relate to blood sugar levels, but they are not the same.

Hypoglycemia: There is too little glucose in the blood, below 70 mg/dL.

Hyperglycemia: Glucose levels are too high, above 126 mg/L when fasting or 200 mg/dL 2 hours after eating.

Eating regular meals that include complex carbohydrates can prevent hypoglycemia for most people.

Those with a risk of hypoglycemia due to a medical condition should also:

Follow a treatment plan: It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and seek help if symptoms change.

Checking blood glucose levels: Those at risk should check their blood sugar levels regularly and know how to recognize the symptoms.

Alcohol: Follow the daily alcohol limits that a doctor recommends and avoid drinking alcohol without food.

Exercise: Eat a carbohydrate-rich snack before exercising and be aware of how exercise can impact blood sugar levels.

Taking care when sick: Vomiting, for example, can prevent the body from absorbing enough energy.

Being ready: Carry a container of sugary fruit juice or a candy bar in case symptoms appear.

Letting people know: Those who are prone to low blood sugar should let friends, colleagues, and family members know.

Medical ID: Carrying a form of ID or medical bracelet will enable healthcare providers, emergency services, and others to know what to do sooner.

Hypoglycemia can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, and, in severe cases, a loss of consciousness.

People with a number of medical conditions, including diabetes, may have a higher risk of hypoglycemia.

It is important to know how to recognize the symptoms and to be ready to take action if they occur.

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Symptoms, causes, and treatment

Hypoglycemia refers to low levels of sugar, or glucose, in the blood. Hypoglycemia is not a disease, but it can indicate a health problem.

All the body’s cells, including the brain, need energy to function. Glucose supplies energy to the body. Insulin, a hormone, enables the cells to absorb and use it.

Signs of low blood sugar include hunger, trembling, heart racing, nausea, and sweating. In severe cases, it can lead to coma and death.

Hypoglycemia can occur with several conditions, but it most commonly happens as a reaction to medications, such as insulin. People with diabetes use insulin to treat high blood sugar.

Hypoglycemia happens when there is not enough glucose, or sugar, in the blood.

The National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), note that symptoms usually appear when blood sugar levels are below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

However, this number can vary between individuals.

Blood glucose monitors are available for purchase online.

People with mild hypoglycemia may experience the following early symptoms:

• hunger
• tremor or trembling
• sweating
• shaking
• a pale face
• heart palpitations
• rapid or irregular heart rate
• dizziness and weakness
• blurred vision
• confusion

Severe hypoglycemia may involve:

• weakness and tiredness
• poor concentration
• irritability and nervousness
• confusion
• irrational or argumentative behavior and personality changes
• tingling in the mouth
• coordination problems

Complications

If a person does not take action, they may have:

• difficulty eating or drinking
• seizures
• a loss of consciousness
• coma

Severe hypoglycemia can be life-threatening.

A person who regularly experiences hypoglycemia may become unaware that it is happening or getting worse. They will not notice the warning signs, and this can lead to severe and possibly fatal complications.

Hypoglycemia is often a sign of poorly managed diabetes.

Hypoglycemia can occur for various reasons.

Blood sugar regulation

The digestive system breaks down carbohydrates from food. One of the molecules this creates is glucose, the body’s main source of energy.

Glucose enters the bloodstream after we eat. However, glucose needs insulin — a hormone that the pancreas produces — before it can enter a cell. In other words, even if there is plenty of glucose available, a cell will starve of energy if there is no insulin.

After eating, the pancreas automatically releases the right amount of insulin to move the glucose in blood into the cells. As glucose enters the cells, the blood sugar levels fall.

Any extra glucose goes into the liver and muscles in the form of glycogen, or stored glucose. The body can use this glucose later when it needs more energy.

Insulin is responsible for bringing high blood sugar levels back to normal.

If glucose levels fall because an individual has not eaten for a while, the pancreas secretes glucagon — another hormone — which triggers the breakdown of stored glycogen into glucose.

The body then releases the glycogen into the bloodstream, bringing glucose levels back up.

Hypoglycemia and diabetes

Share on PinterestTesting blood sugar regularly can help those with diabetes to prevent hypoglycemia.

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes involve a problem with insulin.

Type 1 diabetes: Damage to the cells that normally produce insulin means that the body cannot produce insulin.

Type 2 diabetes: The body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin or the pancreas may not release enough insulin.

In both types of diabetes, the cells do not get enough energy.

People with type 1 diabetes and some people with type 2 need to take insulin or other drugs to reduce their blood sugar levels.

If the dose is too high, blood sugar levels can fall too far, leading to hypoglycemia.

Hypoglycemia can also occur if the person exercises more than usual or does not eat enough.

A person does not need to increase their dose to have too much insulin in their body. It may be that the insulin they took was more than their body needed at that moment.

According to the NIDDK, both insulin and two other drugs can result in hypoglycemia. These drugs are sulfonylureas and meglitinides.

Hypoglycemia in children: Pediatric ketotic hypoglycemia

Some children experience pediatric ketotic hypoglycemia, involving low blood sugar levels and high levels of a substance known as ketones.

Doctors do not know exactly why this happens, but causes may include:

• metabolism problems that the child was born
• conditions that lead to excess production of certain hormones

Symptoms usually appear after the age of 6 months and disappear before adolescence.

They include:

• fatigue
• headaches
• pale skin
• confusion
• dizziness
• irritability
• mood changes
• clumsy or jerky movements

If a child shows any of the above signs or symptoms, they should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Insulin autoimmune syndrome

Another possible cause of hypoglycemia is insulin autoimmune syndrome, a rare disease that happens when the body’s immune system attacks insulin, mistaking it for an unwanted substance.

Symptoms tend to appear suddenly, according to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD). They often go away after a few months, but sometimes they come back again.

Treatment can usually control the symptoms.

Symptoms and treatment are similar to those for hypoglycemia due to other causes.

Other causes

People may experience hypoglycemia for other reasons.

Some medications: Quinine, a drug that prevents malaria, can trigger hypoglycemia. High doses of salicylates, used to treat rheumatic disease, or propranolol for hypertension (high blood pressure) may also cause blood sugar levels to drop. It can also happen when a person takes diabetes medication without having diabetes.

Alcohol consumption: Drinking large amounts of alcohol can cause the liver to stop releasing stored glucose into the bloodstream.

Some liver diseases: Drug-induced hepatitis can lead to hypoglycemia, because it affects the liver.

Kidney disorders: People with a kidney disorder may have problems excreting medications. This can result in low blood sugar levels.

Not eating enough: People with eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, may experience dramatic falls in their blood sugar levels. Fasting or missing a meal may lead to low blood sugar levels.

Insulinoma: A tumor in the pancreas can cause the pancreas to produce too much insulin.

Increased activity: Increasing levels of physical activity can lower blood sugar levels for some time.

Endocrine problems: Some disorders of the adrenal and pituitary glands can lead to hypoglycemia. This is more common in children than adults.

Reactive, or postprandial, hypoglycemia: The pancreas produces too much insulin after a meal.

Tumors: Rarely, a tumor in a part of the body other than the pancreas can cause hypoglycemia.

Severe illness: Some diseases, such as cancer, can affect many different organs, including the pancreas. This can lead to hypoglycemia.

Anybody who experiences the symptoms of hypoglycemia but does not know why should see a doctor.

The doctor will probably:

• order a blood test to measure blood sugar levels
• ask about symptoms, and whether they improve after blood sugar levels return to normal
• check the patient’s medical history and any medications they are taking
• ask the person about their alcohol consumption

Whipple’s triad

A collection of three criteria, known as Whipple’s criteria, can suggest that symptoms stem from a pancreatic tumor.

The three criteria of Whipple’s Triad are as follows:

• Signs and symptoms indicate hypoglycemia.
• When symptoms occur, a blood test shows low plasma glucose levels.
• When glucose rises to normal levels, symptoms go away.

At the time of a visit to the doctor, a person may not have symptoms. The doctor may ask them to fast for a time, usually overnight. This allows hypoglycemia to occur so that the doctor can make a diagnosis.

Some people may have to spend time in the hospital and fast for longer.

If symptoms appear after eating, they will need another glucose test after eating.

Learn more here about pancreatic cancer.

A person who notices the signs of hypoglycemia should immediately consume:

• a glucose tablet
• a sugar lump
• a candy
• a glass of fruit juice

These can bring rapid results. After this, they should eat slower-release carbohydrates, such as cereals, bread, rice, or fruit.

Glucose tablets are available to purchase online.

The next step is to seek treatment for any underlying cause,

For diabetes

A person with diabetes should check their blood glucose and treat the hypoglycemia, then wait 15–20 minutes and check their blood sugar again.

If blood glucose levels are still low, the person should repeat the process. They should eat some glucose, wait about 15–20 minutes, then check their blood sugar again.

People with diabetes need to keep to regular eating times. This will help to keep blood glucose levels stable

Severe symptoms

If symptoms are severe, and the individual cannot treat themselves, somebody else will need to apply honey, treacle, jam, or Glucogel to the inside of the cheeks and then gently massage the outside of the cheeks.

The person should start feeling better within 10–20 minutes.

Losing consciousness

If the person loses consciousness, someone should place them in the recovery position, and a qualified health professional should administer a glucagon injection.

If this is not possible, someone should call for emergency services to take the person to the emergency department of a hospital.

It is important not to place food or drink into the mouth of an unconscious person, as it could block the airways.

Share on PinterestComplex carbohydrates, such as brown rice, can help prevent hypoglycemia.

A number of dietary factors may help control hypoglycemia.

Low-sugar diet: A low intake of simple sugars and a high intake of complex carbohydrates is helpful. Complex carbs take longer to absorb, and this can help prevent glucose swings.

Small, frequent meals: Eating small meals at least three times a day can help maintain blood sugar levels.

Find out more about counting carbs in our dedicated article here.

Some people have recommended a low-sugar, high-protein diet for people with hypoglycemia, but this may reduce glucose tolerance and add unwanted fat to the diet.

Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia both relate to blood sugar levels, but they are not the same.

Hypoglycemia: There is too little glucose in the blood, below 70 mg/dL.

Hyperglycemia: Glucose levels are too high, above 126 mg/L when fasting or 200 mg/dL 2 hours after eating.

Eating regular meals that include complex carbohydrates can prevent hypoglycemia for most people.

Those with a risk of hypoglycemia due to a medical condition should also:

Follow a treatment plan: It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and seek help if symptoms change.

Checking blood glucose levels: Those at risk should check their blood sugar levels regularly and know how to recognize the symptoms.

Alcohol: Follow the daily alcohol limits that a doctor recommends and avoid drinking alcohol without food.

Exercise: Eat a carbohydrate-rich snack before exercising and be aware of how exercise can impact blood sugar levels.

Taking care when sick: Vomiting, for example, can prevent the body from absorbing enough energy.

Being ready: Carry a container of sugary fruit juice or a candy bar in case symptoms appear.

Letting people know: Those who are prone to low blood sugar should let friends, colleagues, and family members know.

Medical ID: Carrying a form of ID or medical bracelet will enable healthcare providers, emergency services, and others to know what to do sooner.

Hypoglycemia can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, and, in severe cases, a loss of consciousness.

People with a number of medical conditions, including diabetes, may have a higher risk of hypoglycemia.

It is important to know how to recognize the symptoms and to be ready to take action if they occur.

Why Am I Dizzy? 7 Possible Causes of Dizziness and How To Treat It

Many parts of your body — including your eyes, brain, inner ear, and nerves in your feet and spine — work together to keep you balanced. When a part of that system is off, you can feel dizzy. It can be a sign of something serious, and it can be dangerous if it makes you fall.

Your doctor will look at all your symptoms and overall health to figure out what’s going on and how to treat it.

Get medical attention immediately if you’re dizzy and you faint, fall, or can’t walk or have any of the following:

Is It Vertigo?

Does it feel like you’re spinning or the room is moving around you? That’s a classic sign of a particular type of dizziness called vertigo. It’s more than feeling off-kilter and usually gets worse when you move your head. This is a symptom that there is an issue in the inner ear or part of the brainstem governing balance. The most common kind is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPV.

Continued

Your inner ear is a complicated system of canals filled with fluid. These let your brain know how your head is moving. With BPPV, tiny bits of calcium in part of your inner ear get loose and move to places they don’t belong. The system doesn’t work the way it should and sends your brain the wrong signals.

It’s often caused by the natural breakdown of cells that happens with age. A head injury can cause it, too.

You’ll feel it briefly when you tilt or turn your head, and especially when you roll over in bed or sit up. BPPV isn’t serious and usually goes away on its own. If not — or you’d like to help it along — it can be treated with special head exercises (“particle repositioning exercises”) called the Epley maneuver to get the pieces of calcium back in place. Most people feel better after one to three treatments.

There are other causes of vertigo both in and outside the brain. You can have Meniere disease (described below), labyrinthitis (described below), a tumor called an acoustic neuroma or side effects from some antibiotics. In the brain, it can be caused by a vestibular migraine, multiple sclerosis, malformations of brain structures or a stroke from lack of blood flow or bleed (hemorrhage) in the cerebellum.

Is It an Infection?

Inflammation of the nerves in your ears also can cause vertigo. It can be either vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis. Vestibular neuritis refers to inflammation of your vestibular nerve only while labyrinthitis involved both your vestibular nerve and your cochlear nerve. Both conditions are caused by an infection. Usually, a virus is to blame. But bacteria from a middle ear infection or meningitis can make their way into your inner ear as well.

In this case, dizziness usually comes on suddenly. Your ears may ring, and it may be hard to hear. You also may be nauseated and have a fever and ear pain. Symptoms can last several weeks. 

If it’s caused by a virus and can’t be treated with antibiotics, medication can help make you feel better as the infection runs its course.

Is It Meniere’s Disease?

This condition brings on intense periods of vertigo that can last hours. You may feel fullness or pressure in one ear. Other symptoms include ringing in your ears, hearing loss, and nausea. You may feel exhausted after the attack passes.

People with Meniere’s disease have too much fluid in their inner ear. Doctors don’t know what causes it, and there’s no cure for it. It’s usually treated with diet changes (a low-salt diet) and medicine to control the dizziness.

Is It Your Circulation?

Dizziness can be a sign of a problem with your blood flow. Your brain needs a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood. Otherwise, you can become lightheaded and even faint.

Some causes of low blood flow to the brain include blood clots, clogged arteries, heart failure, and an irregular heartbeat. For many older people, standing suddenly can cause a sharp drop in blood pressure.

It’s important to get medical help immediately if you’re dizzy and faint or lose consciousness.

Is It Your Medication?

Several drugs list dizziness as a possible side effect. Check with your doctor if you take:

• Antibiotics, including gentamicin and streptomycin
• Anti-depressants
• Anti-seizure medications
• Blood pressure medicine
• Sedatives

Is It Dehydration?

Many people don’t drink enough fluids to replace the liquid they lose every day when they sweat, breathe, and pee. It’s particularly a problem for older people and people with diabetes.

When you’re severely dehydrated, your blood pressure can drop, your brain may not get enough oxygen, and you’ll feel dizzy. Other symptoms of dehydration include thirstiness, tiredness, and dark urine.

To help with dehydration, drink plenty of water or diluted fruit juice, and limit coffee, tea, and soda.

Is It Low Blood Sugar?

People with diabetes need to check the amount of sugar (glucose) in their blood often. You can get dizzy if it drops too low. That also can cause hunger, shakiness, sweating, and confusion. Some people without diabetes also have trouble with low blood sugar, but that’s rare.

A quick fix is to eat or drink something with sugar, like juice or a hard candy.

Is It Something Else?

Dizziness can be a sign of many other illnesses, including:

• Migraines, even if you don’t feel pain
• Stress or anxiety
• Nervous-system problems like peripheral neuropathy and multiple sclerosis
• Tumor in the brain or inner ear

You may have other symptoms besides dizziness with any of these conditions. If your dizziness won’t go away or impacts your ability to function, make sure to discuss it with your doctor to find out the cause and treat it.

What Causes Feelings of Dizziness or Vertigo

Dizziness is a general term that can be used to describe more than one feeling. Some people will say they are dizzy when they are feeling lightheaded, “floaty” or as if they might lose consciousness. Some people say they feel dizzy because the room seems to be spinning around. (The latter condition is probably more accurately defined as vertigo.)

Hitoshi Nishimura / Getty Images

The sensation of feeling dizzy can be caused by multiple different conditions, but keep in mind that it would be impossible to cover all the different causes of dizziness, and what causes one person to become dizzy may not cause dizziness in others.

Body Systems Linked to Dizziness

Dizziness usually stems from a problem in one of the following body systems:

• Circulatory: dizziness can occur if not enough blood flow reaches the brain
• Neurological: the dysfunction of peripheral nerves, the brain or spinal cord can make you feel dizzy
• Inner ear: the inner ear is largely responsible for our sense of balance and equilibrium, so disorders of the inner ear can cause dizziness
• Respiratory: if we breathe too quickly or deeply, called hyperventilation, we can become dizzy or even pass out

Dizziness can occur in other ways but the cause can usually be grouped into one of the above categories.

Circulatory Causes

More specific circulatory conditions that can cause dizziness include pregnancy, dehydration or standing up too quickly (called orthostatic hypotension, a condition that is more common among the elderly and those taking certain medications).

A drop in blood pressure caused by a medication can cause dizziness, and so can internal bleeding.

Neurological Causes

Neurological conditions that can cause dizziness include chronic illnesses, such as multiple sclerosis, or head or spinal cord injuries.

Inner Ear Causes

Vertigo, which is dizziness that usually involves the sensation of spinning, can be caused by fluid in the inner ear, Meniere’s disease, BPPV, labyrinthitis or some migraine headaches.

Respiratory Causes

The main respiratory cause of dizziness is hyperventilation due to anxiety. It can also, more rarely, be caused by an infection or other illness that leads to over-breathing.

Other Causes

Other causes of dizziness include low blood sugar, a medication you’ve taken or a side effect caused by combining certain medications. Motion sickness and the consumption of alcohol, narcotic pain medication or other controlled substances may also be to blame.

While the majority of the time, dizziness is temporary and self-treatable, dizziness can be caused by serious illnesses and injuries, including head injuries, strokes, seizures, bleeding into the brain (i.e., subdural hematoma) or internal hemorrhage followed by circulatory shock.

When to See a Doctor

Dizziness caused by motion sickness, by drinking alcohol or by using prescribed narcotic pain medication does not usually need to be evaluated by a physician. While not necessarily an emergency, dizziness caused by migraines should be evaluated, as should any persistent or unexplained dizziness.

If you experience dizziness after starting a new medication, stop taking the medication and call your doctor as soon as possible.

Stand up slowly to avoid a sudden drop in blood pressure. Talk to your doctor about the possible causes of orthostatic hypotension. This condition is not usually an emergency, but the dizziness can lead to injuries from falls and should be treated. A chronic condition called postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome may need to be ruled out.

If you or someone you are with is hyperventilating, stay calm, take deep breaths and use other techniques to treat hyperventilation syndrome.

If you suspect low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), eat something that preferably contains both carbohydrates and protein; if you do not have a snack that contains both, carbohydrates are best. Examples of simple carbohydrates that will quickly raise blood sugar include fruit juice, candy, honey or cake icing. If you suspect that someone you are with has low blood sugar and they become unconscious, do not try to feed them because they may choke or aspirate; instead, call 911.

If you have forgotten to eat and your symptoms subside shortly after eating, you probably do not need to see a doctor. If you are diabetic, however, see your doctor as you may need to adjust your medication to avoid low blood sugar in the future. If you have recurrent episodes of low blood sugar for any reason, you should see a doctor.

All suspected cases of low blood sugar should be treated because untreated low blood sugar can lead to serious complications, such as coma and even death. If your symptoms do not subside after eating, your dizziness is likely not the result of low blood sugar.

When to Visit the ER

Go to the emergency room if:

• You experience dizziness after a head injury or other accident
• Someone you are with loses consciousness and you are unable to wake them
• You have signs of a stroke, such as one-sided weakness or facial drooping — postponing treatment in the case of a stroke can lead to serious long-term disability or even death
• You or someone close to you is having seizures or convulsions
• You or someone you are with has a severe headache, especially if they describe their headache as being the worst they’ve ever had
• You have a high fever, especially if you also have a sore or stiff neck or if you’ve already tried to bring the fever down using acetaminophen or other measures without success
• You have had severe diarrhea and/or vomiting and suspect dehydration
• The dizziness is accompanied by sudden hearing loss
• You have chest pain, a rapid heart rate, or difficulty breathing

Lightheaded? Top 5 reasons you might feel woozy

Causes of lightheadedness may be dehydration, medication side effects, sudden blood pressure drops, low blood sugar, and heart disease or stroke.

Feeling woozy, lightheaded, or a little faint is a common complaint among older adults. Although it’s not usually caused by anything life-threatening, it could be, so you need to be careful.

“Don’t ignore it. Even if the lightheadedness does not have a serious cause, it could lead to serious injuries from a fall. And at the worst, the cause may itself be life-threatening,” says Dr. Shamai Grossman, an associate professor of emergency medicine at Harvard Medical School.

If you feel lightheaded and/or woozy, Dr. Grossman recommends having a drink of water or orange juice and lying down. If symptoms last more than 15 minutes, he says it’s time to seek medical help in an urgent or emergency care setting. Even if symptoms are brief, and even if you think you know the cause, report the lightheadedness to your doctor.

What causes lightheadedness?

Following are the top causes of lightheadedness and common fixes.

Dehydration

You may become dehydrated if you’re overheated, if you aren’t eating or drinking enough, or if you’re sick. Without enough fluids, the volume of your blood goes down, lowering your blood pressure and keeping your brain from getting enough blood, causing lightheadedness. “A glass of water may be enough to make you feel better, but if you haven’t been eating or drinking much for days, it will take more than that to rehydrate your body,” says Dr. Grossman. You may need an intravenous infusion of fluid. A doctor can check to see if you need electrolytes like potassium or salt.

Drug side effects

Sometimes medications make you feel lightheaded, especially those that lower your blood pressure or make you urinate more. “If they work too well, they’ll lower your blood pressure too much and make you lightheaded. Diuretics are notorious for this,” says Dr. Grossman. The fix may be as simple as adjusting the dose or trying a different drug.

Sudden drop in blood pressure

The autonomic nervous system helps the body regulate the shift in blood pressure when we stand up. As we get older, this system may deteriorate, causing a temporary drop in blood pressure when we stand—known as orthostatic hypotension—resulting in lightheadedness. This may be a long-term problem, but there are medications to treat it, such as midodrine (ProAmatine) and fludrocortisone (Florinef), so this too warrants a trip to your doctor.

Low blood sugar

“When you don’t have enough blood sugar, every system in your body goes on reserve to use as little energy as possible, including your brain, making you feel lightheaded or confused,” says Dr. Grossman. It may only take a drink of juice to relieve your symptoms, but it’s best to get your blood sugar levels checked, especially if you need more glucose (sugar) in intravenous or pill form.

Heart attack and stroke

At its most serious, lightheadedness may be a sign of a heart attack or stroke. Other symptoms of a heart attack often accompanying lightheadedness are chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, arm pain, back pain, or jaw pain. Symptoms suggesting a stroke are the sudden onset of headache, numbness, weakness, visual changes, trouble walking, or slurred speech. “But in older adults, lightheadedness may be the only symptom of a heart attack or a stroke, especially if it doesn’t go away,” says Dr. Grossman. In that case, every second counts, so get to an emergency room for treatment.

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90,000 Run to the endocrinologist! What symptoms would suggest a blood sugar measurement?

Hunger

The word “diabetes” immediately brings to mind insulin – a hormone of the pancreas. The gland releases insulin into the blood when the concentration of glucose in it rises. Usually after the person has eaten. Blood carries the hormone to all tissues of the body, where it helps glucose to enter cells. People with type 2 diabetes develop insulin resistance. That is, enough insulin is produced, but body tissues practically do not react to it.As a result, glucose is poorly absorbed by cells and mostly remains in the blood. In response, the pancreas secretes even more insulin – and the person continues to want to eat.

Thirst

Our body has its own ideas about how everything should be arranged, and it always tries to correspond to them. Scientifically it is called homeostasis – the constancy of the internal environment. With insulin resistance, the blood glucose concentration is outside reasonable limits, and the body tries to correct this by getting rid of the excess sugar through the kidneys.Of course, water also leaves with glucose. The result is frequent urge to use the toilet and, as a result, thirst plus dry mouth.

Infections

It’s not just human and animal cells that feed on sugar. Fungi and bacteria are very fond of glucose. With an increased blood sugar level, they multiply more intensively – naturally, not in the blood itself, but on the mucous membranes. If you catch a cold no more often than usual, but at the same time suddenly appeared a fungus on the foot, it is worth checking the blood sugar level.

Fatigue

With diabetes, a person suddenly suddenly gets tired without any serious stress. The roots of this problem are lack of glucose available to cells: no nutrition – no strength. Of course, if you don’t get enough sleep and work around the clock, there is no point in looking for diabetes. Most likely, this is not the point.

Photo from shutterstock.com

Pain in the legs

Usually, the legs hurt in those who have been living with diabetes for many years.This is a consequence of diabetic neuropathy , or damage to the nervous system against the background of chronically high blood sugar levels. Another scenario is that the legs do not hurt, but they lose sensitivity. A person can cut his leg with glass and not pay attention to it. Sometimes the fingers feel itching or tingling . Foot problems mean that things have gone far and the situation is very serious. However, if treatment is started and blood sugar levels stabilized, symptoms may go away completely.

Headache

Headache in diabetes is also a type of neuropathy . Although the neurons of the brain are most sensitive to a lack of glucose and tolerate sugar starvation worse than other cells, they certainly do not hurt: there are no sensory nerves directly in the brain. Pain is caused by spasms of blood vessels due to hypoglycemia (too low blood glucose). The head hurts and with hyperglycemia (excess of glucose in the blood).In addition, glucose imbalances can ruin mood, behavior, and perception. Of course, diabetes is far from the only cause of head problems. Sometimes it just hurts because you skipped breakfast or didn’t get enough sleep again.

Deterioration of vision

We see the world thanks to the work of the lens – a living lens in the eye. Depending on how far away the desired object is located, the lens adjusts to it, changing its curvature. The curvature of the lens is controlled by special muscles.When there is a lack of glucose in the cells, they get tired in the same way as all other muscles, and therefore work worse. As a result, with sharp jumps in blood glucose levels, most objects appear blurry. Later, the muscles of the lens adapt to the fact that less sugar enters their cells, and vision returns to normal.

And what to do about it?

Of course, just because you are thirsty or have a headache doesn’t mean you have diabetes. It can also be asymptomatic, and all these signs appear in other conditions.The most accurate way to find out what is happening to you is to go to an endocrinologist and take a blood test for glucose, glycated hemoglobin and other biochemical parameters.

Tatyana Soboleva

Hypoglycemia in type 1 and type 2 diabetes: signs and symptoms

In a healthy person, when the glucose level approaches the lower limit of the norm – 3.3 mmol / l – two protective mechanisms immediately work: the production of insulin decreases the pancreas and the production of glucose by the liver increases.That is why hypoglycemia in healthy people is extremely rare and they are not dangerous – a decrease in sugar levels to the level at which hypoglycemic coma may develop will not occur.

In diabetes mellitus, it is impossible to instantly reduce the level of insulin in the blood (the exception is the introduction of insulin using an insulin pump, the action of which can be suspended), and glucose emitted by the liver is not always enough – that is why hypoglycemia in diabetes mellitus requires urgent measures.

Indicators of hypoglycemia

In patients with diabetes mellitus, hypoglycemia is understood as a decrease in glucose levels below 3.9 mmol / l.

Patients occasionally experience symptoms of mild hypoglycemia with normal blood glucose levels. Such hypoglycemias are called false and they occur if the patient has lived with high blood glucose levels for a long time. False hypoglycemia is not dangerous and does not require any measures. In other situations, the patient may not experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, while the blood glucose level will be below normal – this is true hypoglycemia, requiring immediate action.

Causes of hypoglycemia

Causes associated with hypoglycemic therapy:

• Insulin overdose in the event of an error in dialing the insulin dose or inadequate increase in the insulin dose in the event of a malfunctioning syringe pen or when injecting insulin with a concentration of 100 U / ml with a syringe designed to inject insulin with a concentration of 40 U / ml.
• Overdose of tableted glucose-lowering drugs: additional drug intake or inadequate increase in the dose of drugs.
• Violation of the insulin injection technique: change in depth or incorrect change of the injection site, massage of the injection site, exposure to high temperatures (for example, when taking a hot shower).
• Increased insulin sensitivity during exercise.

Nutritional Reasons:

• Skipping meals or not eating enough carbohydrates.
• Increase the interval between insulin injection and food.
• Short-term unplanned physical activity without carbohydrate intake before and after exercise.
• Drinking alcohol.
• Intentional weight loss or fasting without reducing the dose of antihyperglycemic drugs or fasting.
• Slowing down the evacuation of food from the stomach.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia has many faces, however, each patient has its own “set” of symptoms, and most patients feel the approach of hypoglycemia well:

• First of all: palpitations, tremors, pallor, nervousness and anxiety, nightmares, sweating, hunger, paresthesia.
• They join as the glucose level continues to decrease: weakness, fatigue, decreased concentration, dizziness, visual and speech disorders, changes in behavior, seizures, loss of consciousness (hypoglycemic coma).

Are hypoglycemia dangerous?

According to the severity (or danger to health and life), hypoglycemia is divided into lungs – the patient himself is able to restore the blood glucose level to normal, and severe – to restore the blood glucose level to normal values, outside help is needed.

Mild hypoglycemia is not dangerous. Moreover, the closer to normal the patient’s blood glucose level, the greater the likelihood of an increase in the frequency of mild hypoglycemia.

Severe hypoglycemia causes significant damage to brain cells and is life-threatening.

Low blood sugar: causes, signs, ways to increase

Low blood sugar: causes, signs, ways to increase

Hypoglycemia is a serious symptom that can harm a person’s health and lead to coma.It is important to know and be able to quickly raise blood sugar levels.

Lack of sugar in the blood is called hypoglycemia. Diabetes patients and healthy people face this phenomenon. Lack of sugar is a dangerous condition that is fraught with complications.

Causes of falling blood sugar levels

The most common causes of low blood sugar levels are:

1. Strict diets, deliberate starvation, unbalanced nutrition.
2. Ignoring meals, long breaks between them.
3. Lack of full snacks.
4. High mental stress.
5. Intensive sports.
6. Excessive consumption of sweet carbonated drinks, alcoholic beverages.
7. Overeating sweets and pastries.
8. Strong coffee abuse.

Symptoms of a drop in blood sugar

If the sugar level is approaching low levels, it can be recognized by the following signs:

• heat throughout the body, blood rushes to the face, it begins to “burn”;
• headache and dizziness;
• heart palpitations;
• general weakness;
• tremors in the limbs, tremors in the body;
• feeling of severe hunger;
• mild nausea;
• loss of orientation in space;
• the appearance of circles before the eyes, bifurcation of objects, other problems with visual perception;
• feeling of fear, anxiety, anxiety;
• tiredness and drowsiness;
• inability to get enough sleep due to bad dreams;
• violation of the functions of the speech apparatus.

For balancing nutrition and a healthy snack, the Yummy Bar (marzipan-cashew) from the YooGo operative food series is perfect. Each bar contains two types of high quality protein, crushed cashew kernels and the finest coconut chips, and inulin syrup, which lowers the bar’s total glycemic index.

Also a great snack option consisting of fruits, vegetables and nuts is Fitness Kozinak (cranberry-beet).It energizes the body with the right carbohydrates and cheers you up for the whole day. No extra calories, dyes or flavors, low glycemic index.

What can you do to quickly raise your blood sugar?

To quickly increase sugar levels, you can use simple folk methods:

1. Eat candy, a piece of chocolate bar, a few pieces of chocolate.
2. Drink a cup of sweet tea with honey, jam or sugar.
3. Eat a banana or some sweet dried fruits (dried apricots, prunes, dates).
4. Drink sweet fruit juice with pulp (it can be additionally sweetened).

It is convenient to take with you as a quick snack Blueberry gummies. The product is based on natural juice and no artificial flavors, colors or flavor enhancers. Blueberry extract is an excellent source of anthocyanins, natural antioxidant substances that support and protect vision.

How can a diabetic protect himself from sudden surges in sugar?

The following recommendations will help protect yourself from hypoglycemia and its consequences:

1. To fully comply with the doctor’s recommendations, tell him about your condition, ask clarifying questions.
2. To independently understand your disease, read specialized literature, know how to provide first aid.
3. Notify relatives, friends, colleagues at school or work so that they can provide assistance in time.A prerequisite is not to be ashamed of your disease.
4. Always carry a candy, a chocolate bar or a few pieces of refined sugar with you. This will help to cope with the problem in case of a sudden attack.
5. Regularly measure blood sugar levels, especially before long walks, trips, exams, physical activity. If your sugar levels are low, then you should definitely have a snack.
6. Minimize or eliminate the consumption of alcoholic beverages.If you want to have a little drink, then you should definitely have a snack.
7. Keep a charged mobile phone at hand. This will allow you to call an ambulance or call your family.
8. Maintain a presence of mind and remember that even with such a serious illness as diabetes, a person can live a fulfilling life.

Attention! Before using a new drug, it is necessary to carefully study the instructions and consult a doctor, since many drugs lead to a decrease in blood sugar levels.

A drop in blood sugar is a very serious symptom that can lead to irreversible consequences. This condition cannot be ignored, it is important to be able to provide first aid to yourself and those around you.

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90,000 About diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents

November 14 is World Diabetes Day. Worldwide – this means that the problem is relevant throughout the world. Unfortunately, not only adults, but also children suffer from diabetes mellitus.

What is diabetes mellitus? This is a condition in which the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood increases.

Why does our body need glucose? Glucose is a source of energy that every cell in our body needs.With diabetes, glucose enters the body with food, circulates in the bloodstream, but cannot enter the cell. Let’s imagine that a cell is a house and that glucose needs a key to get into it. This key is the hormone insulin, which is produced in special cells (islets of Langerhars) of the pancreas. Under the influence of some factors, the cells of these islets die and do not produce insulin. There is no key in the body to let glucose into the cell and fill the body with energy. This is how type 1 diabetes develops in children.

What are the signs of the disease ? The onset of the disease can be determined by 3 signs – strong thirst, the child cannot get drunk, frequent urination, strong and constant hunger.

What is the basis for diagnosing ? To establish a diagnosis, it is enough to take a blood glucose test. It is taken from a finger on an empty stomach. The rate of glucose in the blood is 3.3 – 5.5 mmol / liter.

How is diabetes treated? Insulin is used for treatment.There are certain ways of administering insulin. Also, the sick person is recommended to adhere to a healthy lifestyle, eat right, limit the intake of sweets, baked goods, potatoes, carrots, beets, and regulate physical activity.

Is it possible to recover from SD ? Unfortunately, there is no cure for diabetes. Diabetes is a socialized disease and one must learn to live fully with the disease. Health Schools operate at polyclinics. There is also a Diabetes School, where they teach children and their parents to monitor their condition, use glucometers to measure blood glucose levels, and make insulin injections.They teach how to live in parallel with the disease, teach how to behave so that life remains full and comfortable.

Can I get type 1 diabetes with excessive sugar consumption ? With excessive use of sugar, tooth decay and obesity can develop.

But, there are cases when the level of glucose in the blood can drop sharply and the child cannot, does not have time to tell others about it. This state of slang is called “hypothesize”.

What are the symptoms of low blood sugar? This is dizziness and headache; nervousness; weakness; trembling in the body; increased sweating; mild nausea; pronounced hunger; blurred vision, in severe cases, the smell of acetone from the mouth.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia can rapidly escalate and lead to loss of consciousness.

Have you ever seen a person on the street, lying at a bus stop, on the grass, on the asphalt? And people passing by? It’s even worse when it’s a child. There are many reasons for loss of consciousness.

In the west, people with diabetes have certain marks – bracelets, etc., which indicate that this person is sick and what needs to be done if his blood glucose has dropped. Unfortunately, we do not have such marks.Therefore, each person should be attentive, caring, in relation to another. It can happen to anyone!

To eliminate the signs of hypoglycemia, help should be provided within the first 10-15 minutes. The following foods will help to eliminate the attack: sugar; honey; caramel. lemonade or other sweet drink; fruit juice.

Such a timely start of treatment in most cases contributes to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels and prevents the development of more severe manifestations of this condition.After that, the patient is advised to eliminate the cause that caused hypoglycemia.

How can you help others to understand that a person with diabetes has decreased blood glucose?

Patients with diabetes and their relatives ! Take care of your family! Put a note with the diagnosis, contact phone number and a couple of sweets in your pocket, which will help you provide help in a timely manner.

Be attentive, caring towards each other. Treat others the way you would like them to treat you and be healthy!

Galina Mikhalchenko – paramedic-valeologist, health care institution “10GDKP”

Daytime sleepiness: causes and treatment

Hypersomnia is not an independent disease, but a symptom that accompanies various diseases and conditions.

Daytime sleepiness is usually considered a sign of lack of sleep or some kind of disturbance in normal sleep, but researchers have concluded that latent depression, somatic pathology and obesity can be the cause of such sleepiness much more often. People suffering from irresistible daytime sleepiness should first of all be screened for depression and diabetes, thyroid and nervous system disorders, regardless of whether or not they have specific symptoms of sleep disturbance.

There are many reasons why a person can feel sleepy during the day:

– poor quality night sleep,

– hypodynamia (sedentary lifestyle) due to poorly ventilated premises, as well as due to sedentary work that is not associated with physical activity,

– idiopathic hypersomnia,

– syndrome of limb movements during sleep,

– delayed sleep phase syndrome,

– overeating, especially with a lot of high-calorie foods,

– consuming a large amount of chocolate, coffee, various energy drinks and even strong tea,

– vitamin deficiency,

– sometimes the desire to sleep is due to a lack of sunlight,

– fast change of time zones, especially immediately after the flight,

– bad habits,

– Iron-deficiency anemia,

– obesity,

– taking sedatives (sedatives), antihistamines and other medications,

– overdose of a number of stimulants of the nervous system,

– infectious diseases, especially in the convalescent stage,

– low blood pressure,

– latent asthenic-neurotic and depressive states,

– atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries or cerebral vessels,

– intoxication,

– diseases of the nervous system,

– narcolepsy,

– low or high blood glucose level,

– endocrine disorders,

-somatic diseases,

– organic diseases and brain injuries,

– the most common and dangerous cause of severe daytime sleepiness is obstructive sleep apnea syndrome,

– and others.

A distinction should be made between psychophysiological hypersomnia. It is observed in practically healthy people with insufficient night sleep or under stress.

Chronic snoring (Daytime sleepiness occurs because snoring can cause frequent micro-awakenings in the brain. This leads to disturbed sleep patterns and fragmentation. The body and brain do not rest at night.)

The most common and dangerous cause of severe daytime weakness and drowsiness is obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.This disease is characterized by severe daytime sleepiness, accompanied by fatigue, lethargy, weakness, as well as neurological disorders caused by a violation of the structure of night sleep.

Diabetes mellitus is a disease of the endocrine system with a decrease in the production of the hormone insulin by the pancreas or an insensitivity of body tissues to insulin. Insulin is a conductor of glucose into cells, which is their main source of energy. In diabetes mellitus, an imbalance arises between the intake of glucose and its utilization by the body.Drowsiness can be a sign of both an excess of glucose in the body and a lack of it. And the progression of drowsiness may indicate a formidable complication of diabetes – coma. In addition to drowsiness, diabetes mellitus is characterized by symptoms such as thirst, weakness, an increase in the amount of urine, itching of the skin, and dizziness. Everyone should know their blood sugar level, for this you need to pass a simple test in your clinic or any diagnostic center.

Hypothyroidism is a syndrome caused by decreased thyroid function.Often this disease is disguised as other diseases. Most often, primary hypothyroidism appears as a result of autoimmune thyroiditis or as a result of treatment of thyrotoxicosis. It is also possible to develop hypothyroidism as a side effect of amiodarone therapy in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias and cytokines in the treatment of infectious hepatitis. Symptoms of this disease, in addition to drowsiness, are considered rapid fatigue, dry skin, slowed down speech, swelling of the face and hands, constipation, chilliness, memory loss, depression, menstrual irregularities in women and infertility.

But, the causes of daytime sleepiness are often associated with the diet of the foods used. Even with a good night’s sleep, when a person gets enough sleep, he may experience severe daytime sleepiness. The secret lies in the composition of the food that people eat during the day. After a fatty meal, it starts to fall asleep, and a meal rich in carbohydrates, on the contrary, increases concentration and performance. The protein content had no effect on sleepiness.

Brain trauma can also cause drowsiness.Headaches, dizziness, bruising under the eyes, and an episode of prior traumatic brain injury should alert the patient.

In most cases, excessive daytime sleepiness is a common symptom of narcolepsy. This is a rare form of sleep disturbance in which a person suddenly falls asleep and then wakes up as if nothing had happened. The symptoms of this pathology can appear all at once or develop gradually over the years. The dream of such people is no different from usual, with the only difference that a sick person cannot predict where, when and how long he will fall asleep next time.

5 diseases that you confuse with high blood pressure

When to run after the tonometer

Determining if your blood pressure is normal is not easy. Comfortable, or “working” pressure is different for everyone. Some feel great with the standard 120/80. For others, the norm will be 100/60 – and for them 120/80 will already be increased. In the general case, it is believed that a person suffers from high blood pressure if it has “crossed” the 130/80 mark.And the numbers 180/120 and above are already a reason to immediately seek medical help.

The rise in blood pressure is often asymptomatic or very vague. This is why hypertension is often called the “silent killer”. Up to half of people who walk with high blood pressure simply do not notice it. Those who still have some manifestations of hypertension may experience headaches, weakness and dizziness, chest pain, breathing problems, and hear a “pounding heart” in their ears.

Low blood pressure also often does not give any symptoms. In general, hypotension is less dangerous than hypertension – if no manifestations of low blood pressure bother, then this condition can be considered the norm. However, sometimes a decrease in pressure provokes dizziness, weakness, nausea, a person’s skin turns pale, hands and feet freeze.

As you may have noticed, some of the signs of high and low blood pressure coincide, so it is almost impossible to determine the violation of pressure “by eye”.And the best way to understand whether you have manifestations of hypertension or hypotension is to simply measure your blood pressure with a tonometer.

However, there are also pitfalls here. First, you need to measure your blood pressure over a period of time (including when you feel good) in order to calculate your “work” rate. Secondly, it is advisable to take several measurements and take the average. Blood pressure is very sensitive to various changes in the internal and external environment, so the numbers on the tonometer may fluctuate – for example, if you are nervous, change your position abruptly, drank hot tea before measuring, and so on.

When not pressure

Let’s say you’ve already found out that you are prone to hypertension or hypotension. And once again you have symptoms that come with problems with blood pressure, but the tonometer is not at hand. Or, suppose you were able to measure your blood pressure, but it looks normal. What causes of poor health should be ruled out before running off to drink coffee or antihypertensive drugs?

Tension headache

After a long day at the computer, your neck “tightened”, your head ached, and you thought that the reason for this was pressure? Not a fact – perhaps it’s just a tension headache.Such pain arises from overextension of the muscles of the neck and shoulders, mainly if you sit for a long time in an uncomfortable position. The pain is bilateral, does not pulsate, and, in principle, this pain is quite bearable. Often it is even enough to stretch out and change the position of the body. If you went out into the fresh air, took a walk, did gymnastics and light massage of the neck and shoulders, after which the pain went away – most likely, it was not associated with pressure, but with excessive muscle tension.

Decreased glucose level

Symptoms similar to those of high or low blood pressure can occur with hypoglycemia – in other words, a decrease in blood sugar.It is generally believed that blood glucose concentration can drop sharply only in people who have diabetes, but this is not the case. In a healthy person, a low glucose level may indicate that too much time has passed since the previous meal. Also, a drop in sugar can be triggered by alcohol or certain medications.

Hypoglycemia manifests itself as weakness and dizziness, difficulty concentrating, headache, chills, or excessive sweating. Sounds like “pressure”? And how! With hypoglycemia, there is one characteristic symptom – severe, possibly unbearable hunger.In addition, a person with low blood glucose levels have a dramatic deterioration in their mood. So try eating a chocolate bar or a sandwich instead of the usual cup of coffee or green tea, which you are trying to increase the “pressure” with. Or at least add a couple of tablespoons of sugar to your drink.

However, if hypoglycemia occurs too often, you should still take a blood sugar test to rule out diabetes. Better yet, check the level of glycated hemoglobin – this indicator reflects the average concentration of sugar in the blood over the past few months and will help “catch” a pre-diabetic state.

Anxiety disorder

An uncomfortable condition similar to “pressure” can occur with anxiety disorders – especially with generalized anxiety and panic attacks. Common symptoms of all anxiety disorders include dizziness, heart palpitations, and nausea. A person feels shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, his limbs grow numb, sweat or freeze. Panic attacks can also cause chest pain, severe weakness to the point of fainting, and a feeling as if the heart is pounding in the temples and is about to stop.

Increased anxiety is associated with the fact that the body reacts too strongly to stress, releasing an excessive amount of adrenaline into the bloodstream. It, in turn, can cause both an accelerated heartbeat and an increase in blood pressure. However, the problems in this case are not with the heart and with pressure, but with the nervous system. In the case of an anxiety disorder, the symptoms should be relieved not with pressure medications, but with sedatives: when the stress response is under control, high blood pressure and other symptoms will pass by themselves.

Infections

Some infectious diseases run practically without symptoms, and their manifestations can be easily attributed to feeling unwell associated with pressure. For example, when infected with the herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus, or Epstein-Barr virus, weakness, chills (due to a slightly elevated temperature), and pain in the head and muscles may occur.

If it really was the herpes simplex virus, then in a day or two you will find rashes on the lips (or on the genitals, in the case of genital herpes).With other infections, there may be no external symptoms at all, so the cause of the lethargic state will remain a mystery for a long time.

So those who suffer from symptoms of “pressure” for a long time, but motherwort and coffee do not help, should be tested for hidden infections.

Hypothyroidism

The manifestations of hypothyroidism – a decrease in the function of the thyroid gland – are in many ways similar to the symptoms of hyper- and hypotension. And mostly we are talking about sluggish health and constant weakness.Also, people with hypothyroidism, as well as those who suffer from low blood pressure, pale skin, freezing hands and feet.

But those whose thyroid gland is not working well have additional symptoms. For example, they are gaining excess weight and cannot lose it in any way. Their skin dries up, they lose their hair. Many people experience constipation, women experience irregular menstrual periods, and their periods become more painful. Also, patients with hypothyroidism may develop severe irritability and depression.If lethargy and weakness have been present in you for a long time, it may not be a matter of pressure, but of hormone levels. It is worth taking tests that evaluate the function of the thyroid gland, and, if necessary, start hormonal therapy.

90,000 5 weeks pregnant: signs, sensations, size and development of the fetus

Now the ultrasound is already showing the heartbeat of the embryo, its eyes and ears are forming. Small outgrowths begin to appear on each side, which will eventually become your baby’s arms and legs.

In your 5th week of pregnancy, you may suspect that something is happening. Your period didn’t come when you expected it, and you have at least a week of delay.

You may even feel a little different than usual, but you can blame it on your imagination. If you haven’t done a pregnancy test yet, now is the time. Remember, it is best to do the test immediately upon waking up, when your pregnancy hormone (hCG) levels are at their highest.

Some women never visit antenatal clinics during the first trimester, but it is better not to do so.If you see your doctor now, they can calculate your expected due date. You can also calculate it using an online calculator, indicating the first day of your last period. The countdown has officially begun!

Early pregnancy symptoms are fairly standard. For example, the expectant mother gets nausea and more often wants to go to the toilet, many women say that at this time they were a little “out of their minds”. Even your partner may notice that you are more melancholy than usual. Despite the fact that outwardly you have not changed at all, now you are officially 2 months pregnant, and there are only 7 of them left!

Physical changes this week

• You may be feeling the same way as last week.Do not worry. Every woman is unique – like every pregnancy.

• You may feel nauseous, especially after waking up in the morning or taking a long break between meals. You may even vomit or feel like you’re about to vomit.

• You may feel faint or dizzy, and then you need to sit down and rest. If you have low blood sugar and haven’t eaten in a while, this feeling can be quite intense.

• Your sense of smell can become very sensitive and react even to odors that you usually do not pay any attention to. Perfume, food, car exhaust, or body odor can make you feel physically uncomfortable.

• You may feel a heaviness in the uterus – it feels like the beginning of your period. It’s all about the abundant rush of blood to the pelvic organs.

• The placenta and fetal bladder are still forming.They will protect, feed and care for your baby, as well as provide him with all the necessary conditions for development until the end of pregnancy. All this is now happening inside you, which explains your unusual sensations.

• Your breasts may become plump and more tender than usual. Due to the fact that she is now so tender, you may not be able to sleep on your stomach for a while.

Emotional changes this week

• You may be feeling tired and emotionally unstable right now.At the same time, you can feel the widest range of feelings – from anticipation and joy to anxiety and guilt. This is a very emotional week, especially if you’ve just found out that you are pregnant.

• If you weren’t planning on getting pregnant, you may experience very different feelings. Many women find it very difficult to accept the fact of unexpected pregnancy and come to terms with their new position.

• You may be torn apart by opposing desires – to seek advice from your girlfriends who have given birth, or to keep the news a secret.Many women choose not to share their little secret with anyone until it is obvious to the rest of the world that they are pregnant.

• You may start to worry about your health and your baby’s development. This is a challenging time because many of the things you go through are completely unfamiliar to you. You may even wonder how your partner is feeling or how pregnancy might affect your relationship.

• Chances are, you are not sure if you should tell family and friends about this.The first 12 weeks are full of risks, and not all pregnancies cross this milestone. Many married couples wait until the 12th week, when the risk of miscarriage decreases, and only then share the news with others.

What happens to the baby this week

• It is already the size of an orange seed and can only be seen with ultrasound.

• Your baby looks like a tadpole, and he already has a primitive heart, which has begun to beat and supply blood to a small body.Although the chambers have not yet formed in the heart, it is doing its job perfectly.

• Sometimes on ultrasound you can see the heartbeat of a baby. At this stage, transvaginal ultrasound gives more accurate results than the classical one through the abdominal wall.

• Your baby’s brain and spinal cord are forming. While they are still outside the body, but in due time they will move to where they should be.

Tips of the week

• Do not forget to take vitamins every day.In the fifth week, the embryo’s neural tube (brain and spinal cord) is open, but by next week it will close.

• Do not take any medication unless it is essential and recommended by your doctor. Some pharmaceuticals are harmful to the development of the embryo.

• Try to rest at every opportunity. If you are feeling tired, the best way to deal with it is to sleep and, if possible, not worry.

Onward to Week 6!

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