Is hypoglycemia without diabetes common in adults and children. What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia and how does it differ from diabetes. How can parents recognize hypoglycemia in their children. When should someone seek medical attention for hypoglycemic symptoms. What causes hypoglycemia in non-diabetics. How is hypoglycemia diagnosed and differentiated from diabetes. What triggers reactive hypoglycemia. Can non-diabetic hypoglycemia be cured. What are the treatment options for non-diabetic hypoglycemia. What happens if hypoglycemia is left untreated. Can children outgrow hypoglycemia.

Understanding Hypoglycemia in Non-Diabetic Individuals

Hypoglycemia, commonly known as low blood sugar, is often associated with diabetes. However, it can also occur in individuals without diabetes, albeit less frequently. This condition requires careful attention and investigation, as it may indicate an underlying health issue.

Hypoglycemia without diabetes is relatively uncommon in adults and children. In adults, it’s often observed in patients fighting active infections, where the body consumes energy (glucose) to combat the invading pathogens. In severe cases, this can lead to a buildup of acid in the blood, signaling the body’s shift to anaerobic metabolism as a backup energy source.

In children, non-diabetic hypoglycemia is frequently linked to genetic, neurohormonal, or adrenal axis problems. These cases typically require thorough investigation to identify potential underlying endocrine disorders.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia and diabetes, though opposite in terms of blood sugar levels, can present similar symptoms in extreme cases. These include:

• Marked lethargy or fatigue
• Seizures
• Increased susceptibility to infections
• Listlessness
• Dry skin
• Droopy eyes
• Dry mouth

In severe cases, seizure-like activity may occur. These symptoms arise as the body struggles to supply sufficient glucose to vital organs, primarily the brain and heart.

Identifying Hypoglycemia in Children

Parents should be vigilant for signs of hypoglycemia in their children. Key indicators include:

• Unusual fatigue or listlessness
• Dry skin
• Droopy eyes
• Dry mouth
• In extreme cases, seizure-like activity

If these symptoms are observed, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemic symptoms should be addressed as soon as possible. The body enters a catabolic state during hypoglycemia, fighting to maintain essential functions. This condition can rapidly lead to hospitalization if left unchecked.

Immediate medical attention is necessary if an individual experiences:

• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Seizures or loss of consciousness
• Rapid heart rate or palpitations

Causes of Hypoglycemia in Non-Diabetics

The causes of hypoglycemia in non-diabetics vary between adults and children:

In Children:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Endocrine tumors
• Genetic disorders affecting glucose metabolism

In Adults:

• Overtreatment with certain medications
• Severe infections
• Severe inflammation
• Severe physical trauma

These factors can disrupt the body’s normal glucose regulation, leading to hypoglycemic episodes.

Diagnosing Hypoglycemia and Ruling Out Diabetes

Hypoglycemia and diabetes can be diagnosed through a fasting blood sugar test. This simple and cost-effective test is widely available at doctor’s offices and urgent care centers. It provides crucial information about an individual’s blood glucose levels, helping to differentiate between hypoglycemia and diabetes.

The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Fasting for at least 8 hours
2. Blood sample collection
3. Analysis of blood glucose levels
4. Interpretation of results by a healthcare professional

If hypoglycemia is suspected, additional tests may be conducted to determine the underlying cause, especially in non-diabetic individuals.

Understanding Reactive Hypoglycemia

Reactive hypoglycemia is a condition where blood sugar levels drop rapidly after a meal. This occurs when the body’s response to food intake leads to an overproduction of insulin, causing a sudden decrease in blood glucose.

Common triggers for reactive hypoglycemia include:

• Consuming high-sugar foods
• Skipping meals
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Certain gastrointestinal surgeries

In some cases, reactive hypoglycemia can be a sign of pre-diabetes or increased insulin sensitivity. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider if experiencing frequent episodes of reactive hypoglycemia.

Hypoglycemic Attacks: Recognizing and Responding

A hypoglycemic attack is characterized by a sudden, rapid drop in blood sugar levels without an adequate compensatory response from the adrenal glands. During such an attack, the body struggles to maintain normal blood glucose levels, potentially leading to serious complications.

Symptoms of a hypoglycemic attack may include:

• Sudden weakness or dizziness
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Blurred vision
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sweating
• Anxiety or irritability

Immediate action is crucial during a hypoglycemic attack. Consuming fast-acting carbohydrates, such as fruit juice or glucose tablets, can help raise blood sugar levels quickly. If the person loses consciousness, emergency medical services should be contacted immediately.

Treatment Options for Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia

The treatment of non-diabetic hypoglycemia focuses primarily on addressing the underlying cause. This may involve:

• Treating infections or inflammation
• Adjusting medications that may be causing hypoglycemia
• Managing endocrine disorders or tumors
• Dietary modifications to stabilize blood sugar levels

In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help regulate blood glucose levels. However, the specific treatment plan will depend on the individual’s condition and the underlying cause of their hypoglycemia.

Can Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia Be Cured?

The potential for curing non-diabetic hypoglycemia depends largely on its underlying cause. In many cases, once the root cause is identified and addressed, hypoglycemic episodes can be effectively managed or eliminated.

Steps towards managing non-diabetic hypoglycemia include:

1. Accurate diagnosis of the underlying condition
2. Consultation with an endocrine specialist
3. Development of a personalized treatment plan
4. Regular monitoring and follow-up

With proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, many individuals can successfully manage their hypoglycemia and prevent future episodes.

Consequences of Untreated Hypoglycemia

Untreated hypoglycemia can have severe consequences on the body. As blood glucose levels continue to drop, various organ systems begin to fail, similar to a car running out of fuel.

Potential complications of untreated hypoglycemia include:

• Seizures and neurological damage
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Kidney failure
• Skin infections due to compromised immune function
• In extreme cases, coma or death

These serious outcomes underscore the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of hypoglycemia, regardless of its underlying cause.

Hypoglycemia in Children: Can They Outgrow It?

The possibility of a child outgrowing hypoglycemia depends on the underlying cause. Once the reason for a child’s hypoglycemia is diagnosed – whether it’s an endocrine tumor, infection, or epilepsy – appropriate steps can be taken to manage the condition.

Factors influencing a child’s prognosis include:

• The specific cause of hypoglycemia
• Age at diagnosis
• Severity of the condition
• Effectiveness of treatment

With proper medical intervention and management, many children can successfully overcome hypoglycemic episodes and lead normal, healthy lives. However, ongoing monitoring and follow-up care are often necessary to ensure long-term well-being.

Preventing Hypoglycemia in Non-Diabetics

While not all cases of non-diabetic hypoglycemia can be prevented, there are steps individuals can take to reduce their risk:

• Maintain a balanced diet with regular meals and snacks
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
• Exercise regularly, but be mindful of intense workouts that can deplete glucose reserves
• Stay hydrated
• Monitor blood sugar levels if prone to hypoglycemia
• Be aware of medication side effects that may affect blood glucose levels

By adopting these lifestyle habits and staying vigilant about their health, individuals can minimize their risk of experiencing hypoglycemic episodes.

The Role of Diet in Managing Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia

Diet plays a crucial role in managing non-diabetic hypoglycemia. Proper nutrition can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent sudden drops that lead to hypoglycemic episodes.

Key dietary recommendations for managing hypoglycemia include:

• Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day
• Including a balance of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats in each meal
• Avoiding high-sugar foods and beverages
• Limiting caffeine intake
• Consuming fiber-rich foods to slow glucose absorption

Working with a registered dietitian can help individuals develop a personalized meal plan that addresses their specific nutritional needs and helps manage their hypoglycemia effectively.

The Glycemic Index: A Useful Tool for Managing Hypoglycemia

The glycemic index (GI) is a valuable tool for individuals managing hypoglycemia. It ranks carbohydrates based on how quickly they raise blood sugar levels. Foods with a low GI are digested and absorbed more slowly, leading to a gradual rise in blood sugar levels.

Examples of low GI foods include:

• Whole grains (oats, barley, quinoa)
• Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans)
• Non-starchy vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, leafy greens)
• Some fruits (apples, berries, citrus fruits)

Incorporating these foods into meals and snacks can help maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.

Exercise and Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia: Finding the Right Balance

Physical activity is essential for overall health, but it can also affect blood sugar levels. For individuals with non-diabetic hypoglycemia, finding the right balance is crucial to prevent exercise-induced hypoglycemic episodes.

Tips for safe exercise with hypoglycemia include:

• Checking blood sugar levels before, during, and after exercise
• Eating a small snack before workouts
• Carrying fast-acting carbohydrates during exercise
• Staying hydrated
• Gradually increasing exercise intensity and duration
• Being aware of symptoms of low blood sugar during physical activity

Consulting with a healthcare provider or exercise physiologist can help develop a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to individual needs and health status.

The Psychological Impact of Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia

Living with non-diabetic hypoglycemia can have significant psychological effects. The unpredictability of hypoglycemic episodes and the need for constant vigilance can lead to anxiety, stress, and even depression in some individuals.

Common psychological challenges faced by those with hypoglycemia include:

• Fear of hypoglycemic episodes, especially in public
• Anxiety about food choices and meal timing
• Frustration with lifestyle limitations
• Feelings of isolation or being misunderstood
• Stress related to managing the condition

Addressing these psychological aspects is crucial for overall well-being. Support groups, counseling, and cognitive-behavioral therapy can be beneficial in helping individuals cope with the emotional challenges of living with hypoglycemia.

Advances in Hypoglycemia Research and Treatment

Research into non-diabetic hypoglycemia continues to advance, offering hope for improved diagnosis and treatment options. Recent developments include:

• More sensitive blood glucose monitoring devices
• Advanced imaging techniques for detecting endocrine tumors
• Genetic testing to identify rare causes of hypoglycemia
• Novel medications for managing specific types of hypoglycemia
• Improved understanding of the hormonal regulation of blood glucose

These advancements are paving the way for more personalized and effective treatments for individuals with non-diabetic hypoglycemia. Ongoing research aims to further elucidate the underlying mechanisms of this condition and develop targeted therapies to improve patient outcomes.

The Future of Hypoglycemia Management

Looking ahead, the future of hypoglycemia management appears promising. Emerging technologies and treatment approaches on the horizon include:

• Artificial intelligence-powered blood glucose prediction models
• Closed-loop systems for automated glucose regulation
• Gene therapy for genetic causes of hypoglycemia
• Personalized nutrition plans based on individual metabolic profiles
• Advanced wearable devices for continuous glucose monitoring

These innovations have the potential to revolutionize the way non-diabetic hypoglycemia is diagnosed, monitored, and treated, ultimately improving the quality of life for those affected by this condition.

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.

5 Signs of Peripheral Vascular Disease

Did you know that nearly half of Americans have cardiovascular disease? Here, we explore one of the more common issues that involves the vascular side of the equation — peripheral vascular disease.

You Had a Stroke. Now What?

Every 40 seconds in the United States, someone has a stroke. If this startling statistic includes you, here’s what we want you to know about life after a stroke, starting with the fact that there’s plenty of life after this event.

Ask These Questions at Your Next Cardiology Appointment

We want to make sure you get the most out of every visit with us here at Upper East Side Cardiology. While we make every attempt to be thorough, here are some questions you might want to ask us.

Heart Issues Younger Adults Should Know About

Heart disease, heart attack, stroke — surely these are things you don’t need to worry about for years to come. Whether you’re in your 30s or your 60s, heart health is one area to which you should always pay close attention.

Does Being Overweight Increase My Risk for Varicose Vein Disease?

Being overweight can lead to a wide range of health complications, and we’re adding varicose veins to the long list. Here’s a look at how carrying extra pounds can increase your risk for developing varicose veins.

Are Varicose Veins Related to Heart Disease?

Varicose veins and heart disease share one thing in common — they both fall under cardiovascular issues — but that’s where their similarities end. Here’s a look at why varicose veins aren’t a sign of heart disease.

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.

Information about hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

This resource explains what hypoglycemia is and what it causes. From it, you can also learn how to treat this condition and how to prevent it from occurring.

back to top of page

What is hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia is when your glucose (blood sugar) becomes too low. This usually happens when your blood sugar drops below 70 milligrams/deciliter (mg/dL).

Your body’s main source of energy is glucose. If you don’t have enough glucose in your blood, you may have trouble thinking clearly and doing your usual tasks safely. This is possible if you have not eaten enough food or are more active than usual.

It is important to treat hypoglycemia immediately. If you are taking diabetes medication, your healthcare provider may change the dosage. If hypoglycemia occurs, contact the doctor who prescribed your diabetes medication.

back to top of page

Signs of hypoglycemia and what to look out for

Different people may have different signs that signal low blood glucose levels. Other people may not have them at all.

Warning signs of hypoglycemia include the following:

Signs of low blood sugar

Test for hypoglycemia by measuring your blood glucose at home. For more information, read the resource How to Test Your Blood Sugar with a Glucose Meter. You can also watch the video How to measure blood sugar with a glucometer.

back to top of page

How to Treat Hypoglycemia

If your blood sugar is below 70 mg/dl and you are awake and awake, follow the 15/15 rule.

15/15 rule

1. Eat 15 grams of sugar. If blood sugar is below 70 mg/dL, choose fast-acting simple sugar. These are foods and drinks whose main ingredient is glucose, dextrose, or sugar. They contain practically no fats and proteins. Your body absorbs these foods faster. This helps to quickly raise blood sugar levels.

Choose one of these fast-acting simple sugars in the amounts shown:

• eat 4 large glucose tablets. You can buy them at your local pharmacy without a prescription;
• drink 4 ounces (120 ml) of fruit juice or any carbonated (non-diet) drink;
• eat 5-6 gummies or lozenges such as LifeSavers®;
• eat 1 tablespoon of honey or syrup (containing sugar).

Do not eat chocolate, biscuits, regular meals or snacks to treat low blood glucose. Your body will not be able to absorb these foods very quickly. They can lower blood sugar levels at first, then make them too high after 1-2 hours.

1. Wait 15 minutes, then measure your blood sugar again. Check your blood sugar again after 15 minutes. If the sugar level is still below 70 mg/dL, eat another 15 g of sugar. Re-measure after 15 minutes. Repeat these steps until your blood glucose level rises to 70 mg/dL or higher.

When blood glucose is 70 mg/dL or more, the next meal or small snack should be within 1 hour. For example, a small snack might include one of the following:

• Peanut butter or cheese with 4-5 crackers.
• Half a sandwich and 4 oz (120 ml) milk.
• One serving of Greek yogurt.

back to top of page

What is severe hypoglycemia?

If left untreated, hypoglycemia can worsen rapidly. When your blood glucose drops below 54 mg/dl, or when you can’t take care of yourself, severe hypoglycemia occurs.

Signs of severe hypoglycemia include:

• severe confusion;
• trouble following directions or simple daily tasks;
• speech problems or slurred speech;
• blurred vision or double vision;
• loss of balance or difficulty walking;
• sudden feeling of extreme weakness or drowsiness.

Talk to your family and friends about the signs of low blood sugar. Explain to them what to do if you become faint or confused. If you pass out, someone should call 911 for an ambulance.

back to top of page

How to treat severe hypoglycemia

If your blood sugar is below 54 mg/dl, eat 24 grams instead of 15 grams of fast-acting simple sugar. Choose one of the options below:

• eat 6 large glucose tablets. You can buy them at your local pharmacy without a prescription;
• drink 6 ounces (180 ml) of fruit juice or any carbonated (non-diet) drink;
• eat 8-9 gummies or lozenges such as LifeSavers®;
• eat 1.5 tablespoons of honey or syrup (containing sugar).

Wait 15 minutes, then measure your blood glucose again. Repeat these steps until your blood glucose level rises to 70 mg/dL or higher.

When blood glucose is 70 mg/dL or more, the next meal or small snack should be within 1 hour. For example, you can choose one of the following options:

• Peanut butter or cheese with 4-5 crackers.
• Half a sandwich and 4 oz (120 ml) milk.
• One serving of Greek yogurt.

back to top of page

Glucagon emergency treatment

Glucagon emergency treatment is the use of a prescription drug to treat severe hypoglycemia. Your health care provider may prescribe it if you are at very high risk for severe hypoglycemia.

If your healthcare provider has ordered emergency glucagon treatment for you, read the resource Caregiver’s Guide to Using Emergency Glucagon Treatment

for more information.

back to top of page

How to prevent hypoglycemia

It is always best to prevent hypoglycemia before it occurs. To do this, it is recommended to balance medication, nutrition and activity level. Striking this balance is not always easy. To reduce the risk of hypoglycemia, you can consult with your physician, diabetes educator, and dietitian.

Do the following to reduce your risk of hypoglycaemia:

• Check your blood sugar frequently, especially if you’ve had hypoglycemia in the past.
• If you are taking diabetes medication, make sure you are eating enough. Don’t skip meals.
• Talk to your doctor before:
  • change medication;
  • start a new workout program. Exercise forces your body to use more glucose;
  • change the amount of food consumed.
• If you drink alcohol, talk to your health care provider about how to do it as safely as possible.

back to top of page

When should you contact your healthcare provider?

Call your health care provider at any time if you have hypoglycemia. He may prescribe another medicine for you.

back to top of page

DIABETES IN CHILDREN: when to start worrying?

Author –
Shvedova Anna Evgenievna

03/07/2018

☝Everyone has heard that diabetes occurs not only in adults, but also in children. Fortunately, diabetes mellitus in children is much less common than in adults, but it still occurs, and it can manifest at any age, even in the smallest (two peaks in incidence occur in preschool age and puberty).

🍭 The main symptoms of high blood sugar are thirst, frequent urination (including at night), weakness and decrease / lack of weight gain, as well as signs of dehydration (dry skin and tongue, rapid heartbeat, drowsiness, in infants – sunken fontanel, vomiting). Type 1 diabetes begins quite rapidly, and requires urgent hospitalization.
It is understandable that many parents fear that this may happen to their child and do not want to miss the possible onset of the disease. But sometimes this anxiety leads to unnecessary analyzes, worries and even psychological trauma for the child. Let’s try to understand the most common situations when parents needlessly sound the alarm. Below are the real questions of moms.

🙆 1. My child (boy 11 years old, weight 32 kg) from class 1 has glucose in the range from 5. 4 to 5.5 mmol / l (blood from a vein!). I worry. Could this be a pre-diabetic condition?

🍭 Answer: no, the norm is the norm. You don’t need to come up with your own norms, you should trust the World Health Organization, which has established criteria for a normal glucose level based on a very large amount of data. For capillary blood (from a finger) it is 5.5 mmol/l, for venous plasma it is 6.0 mmol/l. In the case of young children, it is often difficult to maintain a large interval between meals, and this also needs to be corrected (the norms are different). Prediabetes is something that already exceeds the norm, but does not yet meet the criteria for diabetes mellitus.

🙇‍♀️ 2. A child (2.1 years old) began to suffer from thirst and frequent urination. I drank 250-300 ml at a time, even after meals. The child became less active, often in his arms, capricious. On January 2, they took a blood sugar test with a glucometer. 1.5 hours after eating, the sugar index is 4.9 on a glucometer (in plasma). On an empty stomach from a vein – 5.8. Could it be diabetes?

🍭 Answer: no, thirst and frequent urination in diabetes appear with persistently and significantly elevated blood glucose levels. When glucose exceeds certain values ​​​​(usually 11-12 mmol / l), the kidneys no longer retain all the sugar, it enters the urine and “pulls” water with it. Urine becomes more, there is thirst. To exclude diabetes in such a situation, you can look at the sugar in the urine, and not prick the child’s veins. If there is no sugar in the urine, and blood glucose is within normal limits, then other causes of thirst should be looked for.

🙋 3. A 3.5-year-old child is being examined due to a lack of body weight (13.2 kg with a height of 96 cm) and delayed speech development. During the tests, the following was revealed:
Blood glucose 4.7 (ref. 3.3-5.6 mmol / l)
Glycated hemoglobin A1c 5.7% (ref. less than 6% – normal)
Insulin 2.5 μIU /ml (ref. 6-27)
C-peptide 0.41 ng/ml (ref. 0.79-4.19)
Glucose was taken before – always the norm. The child’s paternal grandmother had DM. Please tell me what steps to take next, in what direction? There were no traditional symptoms of DM (increased thirst, fatigue, frequent urination).

🍭 Answer: normal levels of glucose and glycated hemoglobin exclude the diagnosis of diabetes, and there was no reason to look at insulin and C-peptide. Low levels of insulin and C-peptide with normal glucose levels in children and young adults are the norm, and with a lack of body weight – almost a regularity, and indicates good tissue sensitivity to insulin. In such cases, it is not necessary to do more unnecessary examinations.

💁 4. In August of this year, I was admitted to the hospital with an intestinal infection. Before going to the hospital, they did a test with strips for acetone, showed ++++. In the hospital, they gave urine after glucose droppers and there was something else ++, blood glucose from a vein 4.2. But one day I noticed that the child pees a lot while drinking little. Then I didn’t care. Now I just understand that this is a symptom of SD.
Today they retested glucose after a week strictly on an empty stomach, the result is 4.6
Please tell me, is there any point in retesting sugar or can I take other tests to exclude diabetes? There were no cases of diabetes in the family, but I still worry

🍭 Answer: it makes sense to stop worrying and prick the child’s fingers or veins. There was no hint of diabetes in the child and there is not. With vomiting, high temperature, fasting for a day or more, acetone will be in the blood and urine (acetone is a breakdown product of adipose tissue). This is not a symptom of something terrible, provided that glucose levels are normal.

💆5. The teenager has increased appetite, gets fat, with a height of 146, the weight is already 52 kg. Have handed over a blood on sugar, on an empty stomach 5,1. Could this be latent diabetes? Weight gain is not from food, but from diabetes?

🍭 Answer: they don’t get better from diabetes. But obesity increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes tenfold (a disease in which insulin sensitivity decreases due to excess adipose tissue). In our country, type 2 diabetes in children is rare, but in the presence of risk factors (obesity, especially in type 2 diabetes in one / both parents), it is recommended to check blood glucose every two years, starting from the age of 10 years. If glucose is normal, then there is no diabetes; to prevent diabetes, it is necessary to increase the child’s physical activity (at least an hour a day) and change the eating habits of the family.

🤷🏻‍♀️6. The child is 4 years and 6 months old. I have type 1 diabetes, I measure my child’s sugar regularly, it was normal. Recently, sugar in the morning on a glucometer showed 5.8, then the child ate in the evening and after 2 hours (the child walked for 2 hours, ran on the street) measured it was 5.4. The next morning on an empty stomach on the glucometer was 5.7. And I went with him and donated blood from a vein on an empty stomach showed 5.