The condition known as hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar, or glucose, levels drop too low. The condition is treatable, but causes serious complications when left untreated. Low blood sugar is a common reaction for diabetics from medicine, irregular diet or an increase in exercise. People without diabetes can have low blood sugar, called idiopathic hypoglycemia.
Levels
Blood glucose levels are considered normal at readings of about 100 mg per dl of blood during glucose tests. Diabetes is usually diagnosed when levels are at 126 or above. Diabetics take insulin medication or practice a certain diet to keep levels normal. Diabetics normally test their glucose level with a glucose meter several times a day. When readings hit below 70, diabetics need to boost blood sugar levels by consuming sugar and carbohydrates quickly. Non-diabetics who have suspicious low blood sugar symptoms need to undergo glucose tests at a doctor's office or lab.
Effects
Glucose used up too quickly or released into the bloodstream too slowly results in low blood sugar. Glucose is the main energy source for the body and is absorbed into the bloodstream from food. Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas, helps glucose enter the body's cells in various tissues. Diabetics suffer from low blood sugar when they take too much insulin, don't eat enough food or suddenly increase physical activity without increasing the amount of food they eat. Diabetics usually work with doctors to develop eating plans and activity habits to fit with the proper dosage of insulin and other medications.
Causes
Excessive alcohol consumption without eating blocks the release of glucose in non-diabetics and diabetics, according to the Mayo Clinic. Certain medications, such as quinine, may lead to low blood sugar in non-diabetics. Illnesses of the liver can cause low blood sugar because the liver is involved in breaking down glycogen into glucose. Kidney disorders may prevent the body from properly excreting medications, resulting in low blood sugar, the Mayo Clinic says. Eating disorders involving starvation, such as anorexia nervosa, often result in low blood sugar. Tumors of the pancreas can disrupt the production of insulin to cause low blood sugar.
Identification
Weakness, fatigue and hunger are often symptoms of low blood sugar. Other signs include rapid heart rate, nervousness, irritability, uneasiness, trembling, headache, cold sweats, blurry vision and confusion, according to the National Institutes of Health. Decreased alertness, dizziness, fainting, paleness, insomnia or memory loss may occur. In severe cases, hallucinations, convulsions and coma may result, especially when the symptoms are not treated.
Prevention/Solution
Low blood sugar symptoms can be quickly treated with candies, fruit juice or fruit. Some diabetics keep glucose tablets or glucose gel handy in case of episodes. People with severe drops in blood sugar may need glucose injections to avoid serious complications, including death. Diabetics and non-diabetics usually need to consult with a doctor to change the diet to include small, frequent meals with carbohydrates, which help regulate glucose production, and fiber, the National Institutes of Health says. Sugar, alcohol and fruit juice need to be avoided in the diet.
