Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, occurs if the blood glucose levels fall below the normal range. Glucose is the main sugar that the body uses as an energy source. Carbohydrates, such as those found in pasta, fruits, vegetables, and sweets, provide the main source of glucose for children. Hypoglycemia in children can happen as a result of treatment of diabetes, as well as from other medical conditions.
Causes
According to the Children's Hospital of Boston, common causes of hypoglycemia in children include diabetes and its treatments; hyperinsulinism, a condition in which the pancreas secretes too much insulin, the hormone responsible for lowering blood glucose levels; and congenital conditions that make it difficult for a child to maintain appropriate glucose levels in the bloodstream. Newborns can have hypoglycemia if they are born to a mother with diabetes, if they have inadequate nutrition, if they are sick, or are unable to convert glycogen, the sugar stored in the liver, into glucose.
Symptoms
Babies with low blood sugar may appear jittery and irritable, and have a deceased activity level. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, other symptoms of diabetes in children include hunger, nervousness, dizziness, and sweating. As the sugar levels drop further, children may become confused, have difficulty speaking, become weak, and lose consciousness. Low blood glucose can also lead to seizures. If the levels of blood sugar drop in their sleep, children may cry out or have nightmares, have night sweats, and feel tired or confused when waking up.
Treatment
In children with diabetes who are old enough to recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia, it is important to measure the actual blood sugar level with a glucometer. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, if the blood glucose level falls below 70 mg/dl, the child should take a quick-fix oral glucose solution, for example, half a cup of fruit juice, a cup of milk, or five to six pieces of hard candy. For children who have lost consciousness or exhibit worsening symptoms of hypoglycemia, intravenous glucose may be necessary to correct blood sugar levels.
Prevention
Children with diabetes and other chronic conditions that can cause low blood sugar benefit from having a meal plan to prevent fluctuations in the glucose levels. Frequent monitoring of glucose levels with a glcuometer can also prevent sudden decreases in the blood sugar. Periods of rapid growth, physical activity, and changes in medications can all affect blood glucose levels.
