Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is a medical disorder defined by low glucose levels in the blood. Glucose is the major source of energy for the cells of the body, and untreated hypoglycemia can result in a variety of symptoms and consequences. This article will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and management of hypoglycemia.

Glucose test

Overview

Hypoglycemia, commonly referred to as "'low blood sugar"', occurs when the glucose concentration in the blood goes below the usual range. When fasting, blood glucose levels are normally kept within a narrow range of 70 to 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), but they can rise to 140 mg/dL after a meal. Individual thresholds may vary, but hypoglycemia is commonly diagnosed when blood glucose levels fall below 70 mg/dL.ref>Cite journal |title=Hypoglycemia |journal=American Family Physician |date=2013-10-01 |volume=88 |issue=8 |pages=525–530 |pmid=24364635/ref>

Causes

Hypoglycemia has numerous potential causes, including:

• People with type 1 or type 2 who take insulin or other glucose-lowering medications are at risk for hypoglycemia if their glucose levels are not properly managed.
• Fasting or skipping meals: Extended fasting or skipping meals can result in hypoglycemia due to a decline in blood glucose levels.
• Alcohol can inhibit the ability of the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream, resulting in low blood sugar levels.
• Several drugs can cause hypoglycemia as a side effect, including quinine and sulfonylureas.
• Hypoglycemia can be caused by a number of medical disorders, including adrenal or pituitary insufficiency, hypothyroidism, and liver or kidney illness.

Symptoms

Depending on the severity of the ailment and the individual's response, hypoglycemia symptoms might vary. Typical symptoms include:

• Tremor or shaking
• Chilly sweats
• tachycardia is a condition characterized by a rapid heart rate.
• Headaches
• Vertigo and/or lightheadedness
• impaired vision
• Confusion or concentration issues
• irritability or alterations in mood
• Weakness or weariness
• Seizures or loss of consciousness are symptoms of epilepsy.

Diagnosis

Hypoglycemia is diagnosed by observing clinical signs and measuring blood glucose levels. Typically, a blood glucose test is conducted with a fingerstick blood sample and a glucose meter. The diagnosis of hypoglycemia is verified if the blood glucose level is below the normal range and the individual is having symptoms consistent with low blood sugar.

In certain instances, additional tests, including as hormone level testing, liver or kidney function tests, or imaging examinations, may be performed to diagnose the underlying cause of hypoglycemia.

Treatment

The basic objective of hypoglycemia treatment is to restore normal blood glucose levels. Depending on the degree of hypoglycemia and the individual's overall health, various treatment options exist:

• Moderate to moderate hypoglycemia can be treated by consuming 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbs, such as glucose gel, fruit juice, or ordinary soda. Blood glucose levels should be retested after 15 minutes, and if levels remain low, additional carbohydrates should be consumed.ref>Cite journal |title=Treatment of Hypoglycemia in Nondiabetic Adults |journal=The Journal of Family Practice |date=2016-07-01 |volume=65 |issue=7 |pages=467–473 |pmid=27474823/ref>
• If the individual is unconscious or unable to consume carbohydrates in a safe manner, a healthcare professional may provide an injection of glucagon or intravenous glucose.
• Hypoglycemia can be prevented by regularly monitoring blood glucose levels, modifying medication dosages, eating balanced meals, and avoiding excessive alcohol intake.

Complications

If left untreated, hypoglycemia can lead to serious complications, including:

• Seizures
• Coma
• Brain damage
• Death

It is essential for individuals at risk of hypoglycemia to recognize the early symptoms and seek prompt treatment to avoid severe consequences.

See also

• Diabetes mellitus
• Hyperglycemia
• Glucose meter
• Glucagon

Hypoglycemia Resources
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