Having low glucose levels in the blood is also known as low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia, efined as blood glucose levels less than 70 mg/dl, can occur in people with diabetes or in people with an error in processing sugars and starches, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Low blood glucose can be dangerous. Fortunately, certain warning signs usually occur when blood glucose levels start to fall.
Physical Signs
Hypoglycemia causes physical changes due to the body's effort to raise the blood sugar by releasing epinephrine, or adrenaline. These include feelings of weakness, sweating, shakiness, sweating, dizziness, lightheadedness and feeling hungry. The American Diabetes Association also lists pale color, clumsiness and a tingling feeling around your mouth. Visual disturbances such as double vision or blurred vision may also occur, according to the Mayo Clinic. Heart palpitations or a sensation that your heart is pounding may also occur. Hypoglycemia that occurs during sleep can cause nightmares, poor sleep or night sweats, according to the NIDDK.
Mental Signs
Hypoglycemia causes mental difficulties due to the lack of glucose to the brain. These include confusion, abnormal behavior, inability to speak clearly, nervousness and anxiety, according to the Mayo Clinic. The American Diabetes Associations also lists mood swings, crying without cause and trouble paying attention.
Life-Threatening Signs
If not treated promptly, hypoglycemia can lead to life-threatening complications. Seizures and coma, although rare, are possible, according to the Mayo Clinic. Death may occur, according to the NIDDK. Some longstanding diabetics may have hypoglycemia without any symptoms, called hypoglycemic unawareness, according to the ADA. This can cause a loss of consciousness without warning and can be extremely dangerous. People who have hypoglycemic unawareness should do frequent blood glucose checks.
