Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs frequently in diabetics, particularly insulin-dependent diabetics. Hypoglycemia can cause serious problems in diabetics, who must always be aware of the possibility of developing low blood sugar levels. Taking measures to prevent hypoglycemia, recognizing symptoms early and treating them promptly helps prevent serious consequences.
Causes
A drop in blood sugar normally signals the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream. In diabetics, the normal response to a drop in blood sugar is impaired, and responses occur slowly or not at all. Taking too much insulin and not eating enough food can cause hypoglycemia. Missing meals or increasing physical activity without taking in extra food can also cause hypoglycemia. When diabetics have an infection or other illness, metabolic needs increase, and hypoglycemia is more likely to occur. Excess alcohol intake can block the release of glucose from the liver, also causing hypoglycemia, as MayoClinic.com explains.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hypoglycemia often come on suddenly and include shakiness, sweatiness, confusion, lightheadedness, blurred vision, a rapid and pounding heartbeat, headache, tremor or anxiety. Clumsiness, tingling around the mouth and pallor may also occur. If not promptly treated, hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, coma and death.
Risks
Some people with hypoglycemia may not have any noticeable symptoms until they pass out, a dangerous condition called hypoglycemia unawareness, the American Diabetes Association reports. Hypoglycemia unawareness most often affects people with longstanding diabetes or those with neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that decreases sensation. Once a person with diabetes passes out, immediate medical treatment in a hospital and administration of glucose is essential.
Treatment
Treatment of hypoglycemia depends on how far the symptoms have progressed. If symptoms are recognized immediately, the person can prevent further symptoms by eating a piece of hard candy, drinking juice containing sugar or taking specially sold glucose tablets, all of which raise blood sugar, until food can be consumed. If the person has lost consciousness, an injection of glucagon or intravenous glucose may be necessary.
Prevention
While not every instance of hypoglycemia is preventable, many are. Checking blood sugar levels regularly, monitoring food intake, adjusting insulin and diet when increasing physical activity and never taking insulin without eating all help prevent sudden drops in blood sugar. Recognizing symptoms quickly and educating family and friends about possible symptoms and what to do if they occur also help prevent hypoglycemia.
