Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when your blood glucose level drops too low for your body to function properly. Several factors can contribute to this:
Causes of Hypoglycemia
In People with Diabetes:
- Insulin Overdose or Improper Timing: Taking too much insulin or taking it at the wrong time relative to meals can lead to a significant drop in blood sugar. This is especially true if meals are skipped or delayed. (Reference: "There are many reasons why you may have low blood sugar, including: Taking too much insulin. Not eating enough carbohydrates for how much insulin you take. Timing of when you take your insulin.")
- Insufficient Carbohydrate Intake: Not consuming enough carbohydrates to balance insulin levels or medication can cause blood sugar to plummet. (Reference: "What causes low blood glucose in people with diabetes? · Not eating or drinking enough carbohydrates (carbs).")
- Increased Physical Activity: Strenuous exercise can deplete glucose stores faster than expected, leading to hypoglycemia, especially without proper carbohydrate intake beforehand. (Reference: "What causes low blood glucose in people with diabetes? · Increasing physical activity.")
- Fasting: Prolonged periods without eating can result in low blood sugar levels. (Reference: "What causes low blood glucose in people with diabetes? · Fasting.")
In People Without Diabetes:
While less common, hypoglycemia can also occur in individuals without diabetes due to:
- Pancreatic Tumors: Certain tumors in the pancreas can overproduce insulin, resulting in low blood sugar.
- Hormonal Disorders: Conditions affecting hormone production, such as adrenal insufficiency or pituitary disorders, can influence blood sugar regulation.
- Certain Medications: Some medications can have hypoglycemia as a side effect.
- Severe Liver or Kidney Disease: These conditions can impair the body's ability to regulate blood sugar.
- Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can interfere with glucose production.
Recognizing Hypoglycemia:
Symptoms of hypoglycemia vary in severity but can include:
- Shaking or trembling
- Fast heartbeat
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Extreme hunger
- Confusion or irritability
- Nervousness or anxiety
In severe cases, symptoms can progress to seizures, loss of consciousness, or coma. (Reference: "During a severe hypoglycemia incident, you may lose consciousness or be unable to eat or drink on your own.")
Seeking Medical Attention:
If you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, especially if they are severe or recurring, consult a doctor immediately. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent serious complications. (Reference: "If you get symptoms of low blood sugar such as shaking, sweating, a fast heartbeat and feeling confused.")
