Low Blood Sugar: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a medical disorder that arises when the blood glucose level drops below the usual range. The body uses glucose as its primary energy source, and low blood sugar can result in a number of symptoms and issues, including shakiness, sweating, disorientation, and even coma. Numerous things, including diabetes therapy, drugs, infections, and dietary practices, can result in low blood sugar. Low blood sugar can be treated with glucose, medicine, or lifestyle modifications, depending on the underlying cause and severity. The causes, signs, diagnosis, course of therapy, and avoidance of low blood sugar will all be covered in this article.
Causes
Low blood sugar can be caused by several factors, such as the following:
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Diabetes treatment, especially insulin or oral medications that lower blood sugar, such as sulfonylureas or meglitinides. These medications can cause low blood sugar if they are taken in excess, skipped or delayed meals, or exercised too much.
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Other medications, such as antibiotics, antihistamines, antidepressants, antipsychotics, or diuretics, that can affect the blood sugar levels or interact with diabetes medications.
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Infections or illnesses, such as viral or bacterial infections, that can increase the body’s demand for glucose or impair the liver’s ability to produce glucose.
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Hormonal disorders, such as adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, or pituitary deficiency, that can reduce the production or action of hormones that regulate blood sugar, such as cortisol, thyroid hormone, or growth hormone.
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Alcohol consumption, especially on an empty stomach, that can inhibit the liver’s ability to produce glucose and increase the risk of low blood sugar.
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Dietary factors, such as fasting, skipping meals, eating too few carbohydrates, or having a gastric bypass surgery, that can reduce the intake or absorption of glucose.
Symptoms
The symptoms of low blood sugar can vary depending on the individual, the cause, and the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:
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Shakiness, nervousness, or anxiety
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Sweating, chills, or clamminess
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Hunger, nausea, or vomiting
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Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
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Headache, blurred vision, or difficulty focusing
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Palpitations, rapid heartbeat, or irregular heartbeat
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Fatigue, weakness, or sleepiness
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Irritability, mood swings, or confusion
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Seizures, loss of consciousness, or coma
Diagnosis
A laboratory test or the use of a glucose meter to measure blood glucose levels can be used to detect low blood sugar. When blood glucose falls below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L), it is deemed low and has to be treated right away. Nonetheless, some individuals could have varying thresholds for hypoglycemia and might exhibit symptoms at either greater or lower levels. As a result, it's critical to speak with a physician and establish a personalized blood glucose goal range. Other tests, such an A1c hemoglobin test, a fructosamine test, or a C-peptide test, may also be prescribed by the doctor to monitor the pancreatic production of insulin, the average blood glucose level over time, or the efficacy of diabetes medication.
Treatment
The treatment of low blood sugar depends on the cause, the symptoms, and the blood glucose level. The main goal of the treatment is to raise the blood glucose level to within the normal range and prevent further episodes of low blood sugar. The treatment options may include:
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The quickest and most efficient technique to treat low blood sugar is with glucose. There are several ways to consume glucose, including pills, gels, drinks, and sweets with 15–20 grams of carbs. Fifteen minutes after ingesting glucose, the blood glucose level should be monitored again and again until it returns to the normal range. In the event that the symptoms worsen or the blood glucose level stays low, get medical attention right once.
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Drugs like glucagon, a hormone that causes the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream. A skilled individual, such as a family member or friend, can provide glucagon injections in cases of extreme hypoglycemia that result in seizures or loss of consciousness. As soon as possible after taking glucagon, a snack or meal high in carbohydrates should be had to stop the blood glucose level from falling once more.
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Changes in lifestyle include eating regular meals and snacks that are high enough in fat, protein, and carbohydrates; abstaining from alcohol or consuming it in moderation; regularly checking blood glucose levels and modifying diabetes treatment; and always carrying a glucagon kit or source of glucose.
Prevention
Some cases of low blood sugar can be prevented or reduced by taking some preventive measures, such as the following:
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Following the doctor’s instructions and dosages for diabetes medications and other medications that can affect blood sugar levels
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Checking the blood glucose level before and after meals, exercise, or other activities that can affect blood sugar levels
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Eating a balanced and nutritious diet that provides enough carbohydrates, protein, and fat, and avoiding foods that are high in sugar, salt, or fat
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Exercising regularly and moderately, and adjusting the diabetes treatment or the carbohydrate intake before, during, or after exercise
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Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated, especially during hot weather or illness
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Managing stress and practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises
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Educating yourself and others about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of low blood sugar, and wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace that identifies you as having diabetes
