Glucose is a main source of energy for the human body. Normally, the body regulates the amount of glucose, or blood sugar, in the blood stream. However, in some cases your blood sugar level can be too low, a condition called hypoglycemia. In most cases, hypoglycemia develops in people who are diabetic, according to the National Institutes of Health. It can also sometimes occur as a side effect of medications or because of other illnesses or medical conditions. Symptoms of a low blood sugar level vary, but diabetics often begin to recognize signs their glucose level is too low.
Neurological Symptoms
When your blood sugar level falls, you may begin experiencing shakiness, nervousness, anxiety, difficulty speaking, headaches and clumsy or jerky movements. You also may notice that you become more irritable or that your mood changes suddenly and without cause, according to the National Institutes of Health. In some cases, you may begin to feel woozy or confused or you may have difficulty paying attention. When hypoglycemia develops when you are sleeping, you may have trouble waking up or may feel tired even though you are well-rested.
Sweat
Some people begin to sweat profusely when their blood sugar level drops. You may sweat even when you are not exercising or exerting yourself. If the condition develops while you are sleeping, you may wake to find your sheets or pajamas soaked by sweat.
Hunger
People often experience excessive hunger when blood sugar levels drop too low, according to the New York University Medical Center. This is often one of the earliest symptoms of hypoglycemia and can be accompanied by numbness or tingling in the mouth and lips.
Loss of Consciousness
In severe cases, your blood sugar level can fall dangerously low, a condition that can be life-threatening. In these cases, people can lose consciousness, experience seizures or go into a coma. If the condition is left untreated, a person can suffer permanent and debilitating neurological damage, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In the worst cases, the condition can be fatal.
