1. They Are Not Uniform
One reason low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is difficult to diagnose is because the symptoms vary across gender and age. Men may be prone to becoming angry or aggressive because higher levels of testosterone accompany diminishing levels of blood sugar. Women, however, may experience symptoms of anxiety and nervousness as a result of the release of stress hormones cortisone and epinephrine. Youngsters are affected differently too, with symptoms resembling drug toxicity or mental illness as opposed to hypoglycemia in the elderly, which may mimic a stroke.
2. The Onset Can Be Sudden
You are out for a morning jog when out of nowhere you feel dizzy, your vision is blurred and you feel too weak to continue working out. Symptoms of low blood glucose can appear suddenly or take hours, or even days, to manifest. To avoid hypoglycemic attacks eat snacks throughout the day and carry food with you. Avoid intense physical activity or exercising right after a meal, since working up a sweat lowers blood glucose levels. Exercise with a partner and inform people of your condition and the time you expect to return home.
3. Your Diabetes Meds Could Be the Culprit
Symptoms could actually be a sign that your diabetes medication is expired, or you need a new dosage. Most incidences of hypoglycemia are a result of a problem with the diabetes medication insulin. Diabetics cannot properly metabolize sugar, which is why they inject insulin. The hormone, which is secreted by the pancreas, stimulates the body to absorb glucose into the cells and convert it into energy. Too little insulin means diabetics need to get the hormone by other means- such as injections. If too much is injected, larger amounts of sugar will be absorbed in the cells, leading to a low blood sugar level.
4. They Are Often Confused With Other Illnesses
Many doctors dismiss patient's claims of low blood sugar because the symptoms resemble daily stressors like lack of sleep and too much caffeine. In fact, it's estimated that hypoglycemia, defined as blood glucose levels less than 50 mg of glucose per deciliter of blood, only appears in 5 to 10 percent of people who claim to have symptoms of the condition. Hypoglycemia can also resemble more serious illnesses like sepsis, heart failure, and neurological problems. Doctors typically make their diagnosis by measuring the level of blood glucose and insulin.
5. They Can Help Prevent a Serious Attack
Listening to your body and understanding how it reacts to low blood sugar can help you prevent major hypoglycemic attacks. If blood sugar gets too low it may result in unconsciousness, seizure, or even a coma. Taking steps to raise your blood glucose levels at the first signs of symptoms can keep you healthy. Keep snacks nearby and check your blood sugar levels regularly, especially if you start to feel dizzy, anxious, or extremely hungry. Low blood sugar can be managed without medication by carefully monitoring diet and exercise.
