Hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar, happens when blood glucose levels drop below normal. The condition occurs in people with and without diabetes.Severe hypoglycemia is more likely to occur in people with type 1 diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes must take special care when they exercise. Exercise, especially a long-lasting or strenuous workout, can deplete glucose and bring on a hypoglycemic attack. There are ways to prevent this from happening.
Symptoms
Several symptoms can be indicative of hypoglycemia, including shakiness, hunger, nervousness, sweating, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, confusion, anxiety, weakness, and difficulty speaking. Hypoglycemia can happen while you are sleeping. You might have nightmares or cry out during the night, find your sheets or pajamas damp from perspiration, or feel tired, irritable or confused after you awaken.
Diabetes and Physical Activity
Exercise is actually a part of diabetes treatment. People with diabetes know that being physically active is a necessary component of leading a healthy life. Exercise helps with weight loss, better glucose control and heart health. However, with diabetes it is especially important that you review your exercise plan with your doctor before you begin. You will need to take precautions.
Exercise Effects
When enough insulin is present, physical activity lowers blood glucose levels during, immediately after and sometimes several hours after exercise. This effect is varies among individuals, and depends on their age, size, personal experience and sometimes trial and error. If you plan to exercise and take insulin, you should test your blood sugar before you work out, and possibly eat a light snack. Some effective snacks include a banana and a serving of peanut butter, an apple and a serving of cheese or a small juice box. If you plan to do intensive or prolonged exercise, you must carefully monitor your glucose levels and consider reducing the amount of insulin you use. Extra slowly absorbed carbohydrate will be necessary at bedtime after strenuous exercise in the afternoon or evening to prevent nocturnal hypoglycemia.
Cautions
High-risk exercises or sports where hypoglycemia could be potentially dangerous include climbing, skiing, diving and other water sports. Riding bicycles in traffic or driving vehicles are instances in which it is important to prevent hypoglycemia. Blood glucose monitoring is necessary and extra rapidly absorbed carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets, need to be available at all times during the exercise period. You may need to reduce your insulin dose and increase snacks before bedtime. Do not drink alcohol after exercising without food intake, due to its ability to further lower blood sugar. Avoid hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms after exercising, because they increase heart rate and could lower glucose levels.
