Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, occurs when blood glucose levels fall below normal. For diabetics, symptoms may occur because of insulin reactions or from medication used to stimulate insulin production. Diabetics need to monitor their blood sugar levels on a regular basis. But even people without diabetes can suffer from low blood sugar. Various symptoms can signal a drop in blood sugar.
Irritability
Low blood sugar can cause irritability that can lead to physical symptoms. Nervousness is often a problem for people with hypoglycemia. The results can be as simple as a headache and sweating or more severe such as shaking, sweating and tingling, according to the Diabetes Network website.
Hunger
A drop in blood sugar indicates there is not enough glucose to provide cells with energy. When blood glucose levels are low, the body also stops releasing the stress hormone epinephrine, which causes early warning symptoms, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC). Without those signs, a hypoglycemic is unaware of hunger and other needs. Sometimes low blood sugar can have more serious consequences in which a diabetic or hypoglycemic needs glucose tablets or fast carbohydrates to avoid passing out or further complications that need medical attention. Often, sweet snacks are needed immediately to raise blood sugar levels.
Blurred Vision
Blurred vision or an inability to focus the eyes may be a sign of low blood sugar, according to the National Institutes of Health. The loss of hormonal production caused by falling glucose levels can cause temporary problems in the eyes that can lead to permanent problems, especially for diabetics, if the underlying cause of hypoglycemia is not treated.
Weakness
Sudden tiredness may develop from low blood sugar conditions. A person may feel a numbness of the lips or other parts of the body. Paleness can occur. The interrupted release of epinephrine because of low glucose levels is another reason diabetics and others with low blood sugar are not aware of physical needs, according to the NDIC. Weakness may result before the person can take action.
Confusion
Dizziness or an inability to concentrate may stem from the weakness caused by low blood sugar. Anxiety and difficulty speaking may disturb a person with low blood sugar, according to the NDIC. Memory loss or hallucinations may be other problems.
Seizures
Seizures or loss of consciousness may occur if blood sugar levels cannot be corrected. Symptoms of low blood sugar are created by the effects low-sugar levels have on organs throughout the body, including the brain. Brain cells can die if they go too long without glucose, according to the University of Washington. That can result in loss of consciousness or seizures.
Heart Palpitations
Palpitations of the heart, a fast heart rate, or pounding of the heartbeat can indicate low blood sugar problems. Low blood sugar can causes the body to release fewer adrenaline hormones and glucose to help raise blood sugar levels, the Diabetes Network notes. That affects the heart and other organs of the body.
Nausea
Hypoglycemia can cause nausea and vomiting, the NIH says. The hormonal levels that are suppressed by low blood sugar levels can lead to hunger or weakness that causes overall feelings of nausea.
Personality Change
The weakness that may overcome a person with low blood sugar can cause neurological changes in personally, such as moodiness or frequent sighing, according to the NDIC. The lack of hormonal levels to warn hypoglycemics of low blood sugar can cause weakness and uncertain feelings that can result in negative moods.
Sleeping Problems
Nightmares may occur for people with low blood sugar, the NDIC notes. Restlessness and an inability to go back to sleep may occur. The person does not always get a sound night's sleep and may awake very alert. Night sweats may occur. The person may awake with a fast heart rate, headache or feeling foggy-headed.
