1. Sugar as Energy
We get our energy from the sugar in our food. After a meal the body breaks down food molecules into glucose and absorbs them into cells where they are converted to energy. Glucose enters cells with the help of the hormone insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. If the body produces too much glucose, it will store the hormone as fat until it is needed for energy later. It's the job of another hormone produce by the pancreas, called glucagons, to signal the liver to release glucose when blood sugar is low again. In people with hypoglycemia, this last step malfunctions, which prevents the levels from becoming normal and leads to symptoms like hunger, nervousness, dizziness and confusion.
2. They Vary Per Person
Although hunger and dizziness are commonly known elements of hypoglycemia, not every case is defined by those symptoms. In fact, symptoms can vary dramatically according to age, intensity of the illness and circumstances. In teens and young adults the illness may take on the appearance of drunkenness or mental illness whereas older sufferers may appear to be having a stroke. If the illness is recurring, try to be aware of the time of day that symptoms strike. Noting the time of your last food intake and what you ate may help understand what is triggering hypoglycemia and help you control it.
3. They Resemble Other Disorders
Because of a vast range of symptoms that include everything from fatigue to anxiety to neurological disorders and even amnesia, it's easy to understand why there may be some confusion when it comes to diagnosing hypoglycemia. Discuss your health history with your doctor, especially if you are diabetic. Wearing a bracelet or carrying an ID card is a great way to let doctors know about diabetes, so they will understand you may be more likely to become hypoglycemic. Some common conditions that resemble hypoglycemia include asphyxia, sepsis, hearth failure, and hypocalcemia. Measuring the levels of blood glucose and insulin are typically the way doctors diagnose the disease.
4. They Can Be Reversed
Even if hypoglycemia is severe enough to cause seizures or unconsciousness, the illness can do an about-face without major damage to the brain. Hypoglycemia becomes fatal and causes brain damage when it goes untreated and if symptoms like unconsciousness and difficulty breathing last long enough to prevent oxygen from reaching the brain. With proper monitoring, balanced diet, and understanding of target glucose levels, hypoglycemia can be managed and reversed.
5. Catch Them Early
Since problems associated with Low blood sugar can be frightening, it's best to be aware of how your body reacts to certain foods and exercise, so you can tell when a hypoglycemic attack is starting. Knowing the first signs of weakness and fatigue can help you prevent an attack. Drink water and eat a snack if you feel shaky. Then check your blood sugar to make sure your levels are in balance.
