Diabetic seizures can happen when blood sugar levels are too low (hypoglycemia). According to the American Diabetes Association, hypoglycemia can happen quickly, to any diabetic, even if her diabetes is under good control. Physical symptoms can precede a diabetic seizure, offering a warning that blood sugar has dropped to a dangerous level. Recognizing symptoms early and getting immediate medical intervention can help prevent diabetic seizures and other complications.
Low Blood Sugar Reading
The American Academy of Family Physicians encourages every diabetic to have a frank discussion about acceptable blood glucose levels with his physician, and to check blood sugar levels anytime hypoglycemia symptoms occur or are suspected. Low blood sugar that isn't reversed quickly can trigger a waterfall of additional complications and symptoms, which can lead to diabetic seizure.
Feeling Unsteady
Diabetics suffering from hypoglycemia lack enough blood sugar to fuel body movements and functions, resulting in awkward or difficult muscle control. A feeling of unsteadiness, weakness or having clumsy body movements can accompany a low blood sugar level and might be accompanied by mood changes, as well.
Sweating
Sweating might occur suddenly and can be mild or drenching. While sweating is most often associated in the armpits, sweats caused by hypoglycemia could begin on the face and can occur over the entire body. Sweating also can induce cool, clammy skin and the feeling of being either hot or cold.
Mood Change
The brain uses glucose as fuel for normal functioning. When blood sugar drops too low, brain activity becomes jumbled and can result in sudden mood changes. "Coma and Impaired Consciousness: A Clinical Perspective," a 1998 book by G. Bryan Young, Allan H. Ropper, Charles F. Bolton and other researchers, notes that these sudden mood changes can mimic alcohol intoxication or even mental illness. Combativeness, extreme moodiness, forgetfulness or confusion all might prelude diabetic seizures.
Hunger
Hunger is the body's way of signaling that it is time to eat, and for diabetics, this can be a critical sign that blood sugar needs to be raised. Ignoring hunger, or delaying a meal, can cause blood sugar levels to drop rapidly. According to the website Diabetesselfmanagement.com, waiting too long to eat can cause a diabetic to binge on foods that may not raise blood sugar effectively, essentially enabling hypoglycemia to continue.
Visual Disturbance
Visual disturbances can occur if blood sugar has been low for a longer period, thus increasing the chance of further complications. Visual changes, which may be accompanied by a headache, can occur as blurry or double vision, or the inability to focus, and can produce a feeling of "tunnel vision."
