Hypoglycemia is defined as blood sugar dropping below normal levels by the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. Symptoms include shakiness, dizziness, confusion, irritability, and sweating. If the blood sugar becomes too low, it can turn into a potentially dangerous situation. Hypoglycemia should be promptly treated. Normal levels of blood sugar before eating is between 70 and 120. After eating, glucose levels should be below 180, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. If you have diabetes and are being treated, it is important that you know what might cause hypoglycemia and how to prevent it.
Medication
Treatments for diabetes include insulin and oral medications that increase insulin production. Insulin breaks down sugar. Too much medication circulating in the body without enough sugar is a recipe for hypoglycemia. It is important to understand the action and side effects of your medications and communicate with your doctor about low blood sugar reactions. Medications for diabetes have a "peak" period where their effects are the highest. During this "peak" period, you may be at risk for low blood sugar if you do not have regular meals and snacks. A medication schedule should be created which takes into consideration your meal and snack pattern.
Skipping Meals or Snacks
Someone with diabetes should have an eating pattern that includes regular meals and snacks. If you take medications that lower blood sugar and skip a snack or meal, you may be at risk for hypoglycemia. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse also states that it is important to have a snack prior to excessive exercise or before going to bed to prevent hypoglycemia.
Increased Physical Activity
When physical activity is increased, blood sugar is broken down faster. This can cause hypoglycemia in someone who is taking medications for diabetes. Before exercise, it is important to have a snack to prevent hypoglycemia. It is also a good idea to bring a glucometer to check blood sugar and have an emergency snack available that can be used to raise blood sugar if necessary. Your doctor sometimes recommend adjusting medications depending on levels of physical activity.
Alcohol
Having alcohol can cause hypoglycemia in people who are taking medications for diabetes immediately and up to 8 to 12 hours after drinking, according to the American Diabetes Association. Heavy drinking is not recommended. If you are having an alcoholic beverage, it is important to have a meal or snack with it. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse reports that heavy drinking can be very dangerous for people on medications for diabetes.
