The Hidden Dangers of Low Blood Sugar

What Causes Low Blood Sugar?

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when blood sugar levels dip below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). This can happen due to various reasons, including:

• Diabetes medication
• Kidney disorders
• Hepatitis
• Eating disorders
• Pancreatic tumors
• Hormone deficiencies

For people without diabetes, hypoglycemia can be caused by:

• Skipping meals
• Binge drinking
• Having a disrupted eating schedule

The Short-Term Symptoms of Hypoglycemia

When blood sugar levels drop, you may experience a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Hunger
• Shakiness
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Sweating
• Chills
• Drowsiness
• Sudden paleness
• Headaches
• Nightmares
• Blurred vision

The Long-Term Effects of Hypoglycemia

Frequent low blood sugar episodes can have serious consequences, including:

1. Hypoglycemia unawareness, where the body becomes accustomed to low blood sugar levels and fails to respond to symptoms
2. Seizures, particularly in people with diabetes who take insulin
3. Loss of consciousness, coma, or even death due to prolonged glucose deprivation
4. Falls and fractures resulting from blackouts
5. Increased risk of dementia, especially in older diabetic patients

Treating Hypoglycemia

If you’re experiencing low blood sugar, it’s essential to act quickly. Here are some tips to help you recover:

1. Consume 15 grams of carbohydrates, such as orange juice, sugary soda, or honey, to raise blood sugar levels gradually
2. Wait 15 minutes before re-checking blood sugar levels
3. Repeat the process until levels return to normal
4. Inform your doctor about any hypoglycemic incidents to adjust medication or diet accordingly

Preventing Hypoglycemia

The best way to manage low blood sugar is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some strategies to help you avoid hypoglycemia:

• Eat frequent, nutritious meals and snacks to maintain stable blood sugar levels
• Focus on a diet rich in complex carbohydrates and low in sugar content
• Avoid skipping meals and binge drinking
• Monitor blood sugar levels regularly, especially if you have diabetes

Remember, hypoglycemia is a treatable condition, but it requires attention and care. By being aware of the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, you can take control of your blood sugar levels and prevent serious complications.