Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when glucose levels are below normal levels. The body transforms glucose into fuel using insulin, a hormone created by the pancreas. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include hunger, shakiness, dizziness and confusion, according to MedlinePlus. Hypoglycemia often appears suddenly and symptoms are mild, advises the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. When blood sugar readings are 70 mg/dL or lower, a diabetic will be diagnosed with hypoglycemia. Treatment includes quickly drinking a juice beverage or eating foods high in sugar, such as a hard candies. Long-term treatment involves medication management and identifying and treating the underlying causes. Hypoglycemia is uncommon for people without diabetes.
Insulin
Diabetic patients often take drugs to lower blood sugar levels. However, occasionally too much medication is administered and glucose levels fall below the normal range, causing a person to experience hypoglycemia. Common diabetes medications include injected insulin and oral glucose-lowering medications. Correctly managing diabetes and avoiding hypoglycemia involves taking the prescribed doses of insulin at the recommended time.
Eating Less
Eating less causes a smaller amount of glucose to be ingested, resulting in hypoglycemia. Diabetics should not skip meals. They eat on a regular schedule to keep blood sugar levels consistent. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse suggests diabetic patients meet with a registered dietitian to create a personal meal plan, so skipping meals or not eating enough doesn't become a regular habit. Hypoglycemia occasionally occurs while a person is sleeping. A dietitian can recommend specific snacks to eat before bedtime according to a person's preferred foods.
Increased Exercise
Physical activity decreases blood sugar levels and is often recommended for patients who suffer from hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar levels. Still, some patients may overexert themselves during exercise and cause glucose levels to severely drop. The National Diabetes Association suggests a diabetic check blood sugar levels before and after exercising to avoid complications. A diabetic participating in extended lengths of physical activity should consume glucose rich snacks during breaks and check blood sugar on regular intervals to avoid hypoglycemia.
Alcohol Consumption
Drinking alcohol causes hyperglycemic episodes, even one to two days after consuming the beverages, according to The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. Alcohol directly affects the pancreas where insulin is produced causing increased insulin to be released, suggests MedicalNewsToday.com. The condition commonly occurs in diabetics who drink on an empty stomach. Consuming a snack or meal while drinking alcohol is recommended.
