Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

What is Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar?

When blood sugar falls below 70 mg/dL you may have hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). When this happens, most people experience unpleasant symptoms that can be both physical and emotional and if it not dealt with quickly, serious reactions may result, including passing out or having convulsions. Because these symptoms can come on quite suddenly it is highly desirable to learn how to avoid hypoglycemia.

• feel shaky
• be sweaty
• feel tired
• be hungry
• have a fast heartbeat
• become crabby or confused
• have blurred vision or a headache
• have no symptoms at all

Having no symptoms at all is a dangerous situation! First treat the low blood sugar level, then call your doctor if you ever had a blood sugar reading below 60 mg/dL, without experiencing symptoms. A blood sugar level this low needs treatment, even if you’re feeling fine.

Low blood sugar feels different to different people. Learn to recognize your own particular symptoms.

What causes hypoglycemia?
The most common causes of hypoglycemia are:

• skipping or not finishing meals or snacks
• taking too much diabetes medication
• eating foods that do not provide a sustained supply of glucose
• eating at the wrong time for the medicine you take
• getting more exercise than usual
• getting stressed
• drinking alcoholic beverages

Skipping or delaying meals can cause low blood sugar in people who take sulfonylurea, meglintide or insulin. These drugs increase the body’s insulin level. Unless insulin in the blood is balanced by food, it can cause your blood sugar level to fall too low.

How to prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Low blood sugar can be prevented if you:

• eat your meals on time
• don’t skip meals or snacks
• learn to adjust your food and diabetes medicine for exercise
• test your blood sugar on schedule
• take ExtendBar; Click here to learn how ExtendBar can prevent Hypoglycemia

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