Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar (glucose), usually less than 70 mg/dL.
Any patient with diabetes can get low sugar. The risk increases when the patient is on insulin or drugs which increases insulin secretion from the Pancreas. Elderly diabetic patients are at increased risk.
The concurrent illnesses, poor food intake, prolonged fasting, additional medicines, and increased exertion increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
You need to contact your doctor if you are getting low sugar.
What are the symptoms of low sugar?
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia include- Feeling shaky and/or sweaty, nausea, extreme hunger, confusion, not able to think clearly, heart pounding or racing, blurred vision, having no energy, feeling “not right”
What to do when one gets these symptoms?
Remember the “Rule of 15”:
Check your blood glucose.
If your blood glucose level is less than 70 mg/dL - Treat with 15 grams of carbohydrate.
If your sugar is less than 50 mg/dL- Treat it with 30 grams of carbohydrate.
Check your blood glucose again after 15 minutes.
If your blood glucose level is still less than 70 mg/dL, repeat treatment.
Once your blood glucose returns to normal, eat a small snack
with protein if your next meal is more than 1 hour away.
Cautions About Driving
Always check your blood glucose before driving.
Hypoglycemia can be extremely dangerous if it occurs while you are driving.
What are the sources of 15 gm carbohydrate?
Avoid treating hypoglycemia with high-fat foods such as chocolate and ice cream. Fat slows how quickly your body can
use carbohydrates.
Some easily available substances with 15 gm of carbohydrates are
Disclaimer: The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. The information is provided solely for educational purpose and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice.
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