Hypoglycemia is the medical term for low blood sugar levels. This occurs when the body does not get enough glucose, or blood sugar, which is an important energy source for the body. We get our supply of glucose from the food we eat, mainly from carbohydrate-rich foods such as rice, potatoes, breads, cereals, and the like.
A carbohydrate-rich meal provides the body with adequate blood sugar that the cells then use for energy. Extra glucose is stored in the liver and in the muscles in the form of glycogen. Any excess in glucose supply is converted into fat, which is also used as an energy source and stored in fat cells.
Normally, when blood glucose levels drop, the pancreas secretes the hormone glucagon, which tells the liver to release its stored glucose. Unfortunately, for some people with diabetes, this signaling system is impaired. Hypoglycemia may happen suddenly, but it can be remedied by eating a piece of candy or drinking and eating even a small portion of glucose-rich foods or beverages. If left untreated, this can lead to confusion, clumsiness, fainting, coma, and even death.
Signs and symptoms
Typical symptoms of hypoglycemia include hunger, shakiness, sweating, nervousness, anxiety, weakness, difficulty speaking, and dizziness. This condition can also occur even if the person is asleep and can manifest through crying out and having nightmares, excessive sweating, and feeling irritable, tired and confused after waking up.
Preventing hypoglycemia attacks
Meal plans
People who are prone to hypoglycemia should have a regular meal plan to follow. It is important that they do not skip meals and have regular snacks in-between. For people with diabetes, snacks are very important, especially before sleeping and before exercising.
Eating small, regular meals is important for people with diabetes. Experts advise that it should not take them more than three or four hours before they have another snack or meal in order to prevent the blood sugar levels from falling too fast. Unlike overeating, which tends to overload the body with sugar, spacing out meals and eating smaller but more frequent portions will allow the body to digest food well.
Experts say that sugar-y foods are not good for an empty stomach. This is because of the rapid rise in blood sugar, which causes the body to produce too much insulin, leading to the quick drop in blood sugar levels later on. They should also avoid taking alcohol with an empty stomach. Alcohols are made of simple carbs and can cause abrupt highs and lows in blood sugar levels. The same is true for coffee and other caffeine-containing drinks. These produce more insulin, which aggravates sugar sensitivities and promotes the symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Those who are prone to hypoglycemia are advised to take chromium supplements, as these can help prevent low levels of blood sugar in the body. The mineral can also be found in whole wheat products, scallops, clams, cheese, and baked beans.
Daily activities
For those who lead very active lifestyles, it is best to take a reading of the blood sugar level before each activity such as sports or exercise, and to have a snack if the reading falls below 100 mg/dL. They should also check their blood glucose levels in-between long periods of physical exertion.
Changes in lifestyle are also another way to help reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. Quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight are important, while crash dieting is a no-no for those who are suffering from hypoglycemia, as this can lead to hypoglycemic episodes. Smoking should be avoided at all cost because it increases the production of insulin and decreases the production of glucagon, which is naturally produced by the body in response to low blood sugar levels. Glucagon is also important in the release of stored glucose in the body, useful during times when the blood sugar is low.
Other ways of treating hypoglycemia
There are glucose tablets that are given to patients in order to restore the normal blood sugar level. Glucose gel, fruit juice, milk, hard candy, as well as sugar and honey are also used as immediate remedies for symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Preparing for hypoglycemia
Preparation is important because hypoglycemia can strike anytime. Those who suffer from this condition should know what triggers low blood sugar levels and they should have a portable glucose meter nearby to test blood sugar levels as needed. They should know their current blood sugar readings prior to doing certain activities like work-outs or driving.
People who are prone to hypoglycemia should also have a store of food and drinks handy in case hypoglycemia hits. They are also advised to wear medical ID bracelets that identify the condition. They should inform their friends and family how to deal with the symptoms of hypoglycemia so they can help them when needed.
Help for severe hypoglycemia
Severe hypoglycemia occurs with very low blood sugar and this is often characterized by such symptoms as passing out. This condition often occurs in people with type 1 diabetes and can be life-threatening. An injection of glucagon can raise blood sugar levels and help the person regain consciousness.