Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a condition that can impact anyone, though it is most often observed in those with diabetes. It can occur abruptly and, without treatment, may result in severe complications such as seizures, loss of consciousness, or death. It is essential for those at risk of hypoglycemia and their caregivers to understand the signs, causes, and appropriate first aid measures for this condition.
When blood glucose levels drop below normal, hypoglycemia occurs. Generally, for the majority of people, this threshold is seen as being under 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L). The body’s main energy source is glucose, particularly for the brain. When glucose levels fall below a certain threshold, the brain and body cannot operate correctly.
Although hypoglycemia is often linked to diabetes, it can also happen in individuals without diabetes as a result of excessive alcohol consumption, extended periods of fasting, or uncommon hormonal or metabolic disorders.
Although diabetes is the most common connection to hypoglycemia, its root causes can differ based on a person's health condition, lifestyle choices, and medications. It is essential to comprehend the most frequent triggers—regardless of whether individuals have diabetes or not—for effective prevention and control of this condition, which can pose a danger.
It is essential to identify the initial signs of hypoglycemia in order to avert serious consequences. Symptoms are typically classified into three categories: mild, moderate, and severe.
Significant Note: Symptoms can differ from individual to individual. Certain people may experience hypoglycemia unawareness, meaning they do not recognize the initial symptoms until the situation worsens.
Children suffering from diabetes might not acknowledge or express their symptoms in a clear manner. It is important for caregivers to be attentive and on the lookout for changes in behavior, increased irritability, or a lack of energy.
Older adults might experience less pronounced symptoms or confuse hypoglycemia with other health conditions such as dementia, which raises their risk of receiving treatment too late.
When an individual demonstrates indications of mild to moderate hypoglycemia and is aware, adhere to the 15-15 Rule:
Step 1: Provide 15 grams of quick-acting carbohydrates, like: ½ cup (120 ml) of fruit juice or non-diet soft drink
Step 2: After a 15-minute wait, check their symptoms or blood sugar level again.
Step 3: Should blood sugar remain low (<70 mg/dL), carry out Step 1 again.
Step 4: After returning to normal, consume a snack or meal to help stabilize blood sugar levels (options include a sandwich, banana with peanut butter, or a bowl of cereal).
Call for help if:
It may cause choking if you attempt to push food or drink into someone who is unconscious.
Doctors may recommend a glucagon emergency kit for those with diabetes. Glucagon, a hormone that elevates blood glucose levels quickly, is injected when an individual cannot eat or drink or is unconscious.
Nasal glucagon sprays of more recent design are also on the market and can be administered with greater ease.
It is always better to prevent than to cure. Learn to lower the risk:
Don’t miss meals and make sure to eat at regular intervals. To stabilize glucose levels, it is beneficial to consume complex carbohydrates and protein-rich snacks.
Frequent checks of glucose levels assist in identifying trends and managing insulin or medications as needed.
Since physical activity reduces blood sugar levels, it is advisable to consult a doctor for adjustments to insulin or medication dosages prior to exercising.
Alcohol can reduce blood sugar levels for hours after it has been consumed. When consuming alcohol, ensure to have a meal and keep a closer watch on blood sugar levels.
Ensure that those in your circle can identify the signs and are aware of how to assist in crisis situations.
Untreated severe hypoglycemia can result in:
That is the reason why swift acknowledgment and remedying are vital. In certain instances, particularly following multiple occurrences, it may be necessary to observe the patient in a hospital setting.
A person can experience nighttime hypoglycemia without being awakened. Indicators that could suggest nocturnal hypoglycemia include:
Preventive actions consist of:
Related: Here Are the Most Common Diabetes Medicines
When identified in due time and treated correctly, hypoglycemia is a serious condition but can be managed. Whether you have diabetes, are a caregiver for someone with the condition, or just want to be ready, knowing the symptoms and the appropriate first aid measures can be lifesaving.
Always keep yourself updated, have a quick source of sugar at hand, and let those nearby know about your condition. If episodes occur often or are serious, seek immediate advice from your healthcare provider to assess the situation and adjust treatment as necessary.
The expert team at L H Hiranandani Hospital is available to assist if you or someone close to you is dealing with diabetes or suffering from frequent hypoglycemic episodes. The hospital guarantees thorough and compassionate care with the help of advanced diagnostic tools, individualized treatment plans, and 24/7 emergency services. Rely on the knowledge of our specialists in endocrinology and diabetes care to lead you toward improved health and better blood sugar management.
Yes. Although it is most prevalent among individuals with diabetes, hypoglycemia can also occur in those with other medical conditions, following alcohol intake, or as a result of rare insulin-related tumors.
Yes. If it is not treated, it can result in seizures, loss of consciousness, and death in rare instances. This is the reason why swift acknowledgment and therapy are crucial.
When you're on the go, glucose tablets, hard candies, juice boxes, or a tube of glucose gel are excellent choices for quick sugar correction.
