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Indicators and Manifestations of Low Blood Sugar

In case of not being treated promptly, low blood sugar can become a potentially dangerous situation. Familiarize yourself with the indications of hypoglycemia.

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Hypoglycemia is a potentially harmful state that occurs when the level of glucose in your bloodstream decreases, resulting in symptoms like dizziness, trembling, lightheadedness, and a fast heartbeat. Glucose is a form of sugar necessary for fueling your body. After consumption, it is absorbed and any excess is stored in your muscles and liver. This stored glucose acts as a backup that can be utilized when additional energy is required in your blood.

Hypoglycemia is characterized by having blood glucose levels lower than 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).2 To determine your blood glucose reading, it is necessary to conduct a blood test.

Individuals who have diabetes are well-acquainted with the procedure of monitoring their blood to ensure that their glucose levels are within the appropriate range, avoiding hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Although hypoglycemia is more common among those with type 1 diabetes, it can also occur in those with type 2 diabetes. People who take insulin (a hormone naturally produced by the pancreas and injected as a medication for diabetes) and certain other diabetes medications must be cautious of their blood sugar dropping too low.

According to the article on Health.com, experiencing low levels of blood sugar is not uncommon in individuals who do not have diabetes. While it is not a frequent occurrence, it is still possible. Various factors such as diet, physical activity, and environmental conditions can play a role in regulating the amount of sugar in the bloodstream.

The likelihood of experiencing hypoglycemia is greater for those aged 65 years and above, or for those who have previously had hypoglycemia. Additionally, individuals with conditions such as kidney disease, heart disease, or cognitive impairment may also have an increased risk of hypoglycemia.

Identify the indicators and indications that will indicate if an individual's or another person's blood sugar is excessively low.

Rapid Pulse

If the level of glucose in your bloodstream drops, your body will detect that there is an issue. It will react as if it is facing a hazardous or tense circumstance - and this reaction is justified. Without prompt treatment, hypoglycemia can pose a serious risk to one's life.

When the body perceives a potential threat, it triggers the sympathoadrenal system as a protective response. This causes the adrenal glands located above the kidneys to secrete norepinephrine, a hormone that increases heart rate.

A rapid heart rate enables increased blood flow to the brain and other organs, allowing the cells to absorb a greater amount of the essential energy source, glucose, which is typically in limited supply.

Trembling and Uneasiness

The substance responsible for both increasing heart rate and causing trembling and restlessness is the same. Norepinephrine serves not only as a hormone but also as a neurotransmitter, aiding in the transmission of signals between nerves and facilitating movement, cognition, and overall bodily function. Due to its role as a chemical messenger, it has an impact on the brain that can lead to feelings of shakiness and jitteriness.

The Feeling of Nervousness and Anxiety

The hormone norepinephrine has been linked to both nervousness and anxiety (https://www.health.com/condition/anxiety/things-that-can-cause-anxiety). If you experience anxiety, do not panic. Instead, take deep breaths and assess your body for any other potential causes.

Confusion and Irritability

Our body must maintain a specific amount of glucose in our bloodstream as it provides energy to our organs. In cases where the central nervous system, comprising of the brain, does not receive sufficient glucose, various consequences can arise, including alterations in behavior.

There are various manifestations of behavior alterations. One may experience heightened confusion and increased irritability. Although some level of impatience is expected, uncharacteristic aggravation or frustration could indicate low blood sugar, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms. This feeling is often described as "hangry," a clever combination of the words "hungry" and "angry."

Sensation of Dizziness

Insufficient glucose in the blood can lead to feelings of dizziness or wooziness, as explained by Health.com. This is because when there is not enough glucose in the bloodstream, the brain also lacks an adequate supply. This absence of the brain's primary source of energy is what causes the sensation of lightheadedness.

It is important to exercise caution as experiencing dizziness, wooziness, and hypoglycemia may result in fainting. Fainting can be frightening, and it may also lead to injuries such as hitting your head. Therefore, it is crucial to find a secure place to sit and seek help if you are feeling lightheaded.

What Can Lead to Dizziness?

Migraine

A lack of glucose in your brain can also result in headaches. This is because the cells in your brain are constantly active and require a significant amount of glucose to function properly. Despite only accounting for about 2% of your body weight, the brain is the primary consumer of glucose.

The Feeling of Starvation

When discussing the feeling of hunger, it is important to note that hunger can also be a sign of low blood sugar. It is natural for the body to experience hunger in these situations. Consuming foods that contain carbohydrates can help increase blood sugar levels, as explained by Health.com.

Acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, is released by your blood when experiencing hypoglycemia. This chemical then signals your brain to activate the circuits responsible for inducing hunger.

Fortunately, consuming a snack or a speedy meal can aid in improving your well-being. Individuals who have diabetes are aware of the importance of not overeating when their blood sugar levels are low. Typically, they adhere to the "15-15 Rule," which entails consuming 15 grams of carbohydrates and then waiting for 15 minutes to monitor any changes in their blood glucose levels.7

Fatigue

The mentioned symptom is caused by the insufficient supply of glucose from the bloodstream to the central nervous system. This can result in a feeling of exhaustion as the brain is not receiving its necessary source of energy. If you are experiencing unusual fatigue and other accompanying symptoms, a basic blood glucose test can determine if low glucose levels are the underlying cause.

Speaking Challenges

The brain is responsible for controlling speech. Insufficient energy supply to the brain can lead to impairments in speech.

It is important to be aware that having trouble speaking may not only be a symptom of hypoglycemia but also a potential indication of other neurological disorders such as a stroke. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the signs of a stroke so that you can differentiate it from hypoglycemia.

Perspiration

One indication of decreased blood sugar levels is perspiration, which is a result of the release of acetylcholine. If excessive sweating occurs along with other symptoms, it may signal low blood sugar. Sweating can occur at any time, including during sleep at night (https://www.health.com/condition/cold/cold-sweats).

Low Quality of Sleep

During periods of sleep, it is common for blood glucose levels to decrease and remain low for a prolonged period. This can lead to various issues and is generally not ideal.

During sleep, these symptoms can occur, whether you or someone near you are aware of them.

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• Experiencing crying spells while sleeping
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• Being haunted by bad dreams
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• Awakening to a damp bed and pajamas due to sweating
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• Feeling fatigued, agitated, or disoriented upon waking in the morning
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Serious Indications

Based on the aforementioned indications, it can be observed that the body enters a state of emergency when the blood sugar levels decrease significantly. This is for a valid reason, as Hypoglycemia can pose serious risks and must be promptly addressed.

When the amount of glucose in the blood decreases to less than 54 milligrams per deciliter, it can be considered as a severe drop. At this low level, the brain is not receiving sufficient fuel which can result in difficulties with walking or vision.

If the brain is not provided with enough fuel for a prolonged period, it can cease to function. In severe cases, there can be a loss of consciousness or a seizure. The level of blood glucose can drop to a dangerous level, potentially resulting in death.3

Appropriate Time to Consult a Medical Professional

If you are experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia, it is important to seek immediate treatment (https://www.health.com/condition/type-2-diabetes/what-to-do-if-your-blood-sugar-is-too-low). Consult a healthcare professional if you believe you have low blood glucose levels. Once the cause of your low glucose levels is identified, a treatment plan can be developed.

Individuals with diabetes, particularly those who are prescribed insulin or specific diabetes drugs, are likely aware of the significance of carrying glucose sources at all times. Fruit juices are a suitable option for easily accessible carbohydrates. Additionally, glucose gel, glucose tablets, and hard candy are also viable alternatives.

If your blood glucose levels are not being effectively managed with these solutions, you may require glucagon. This hormone can be prescribed by healthcare professionals to address dangerously low blood glucose levels. In cases where your blood glucose remains consistently low, your healthcare provider may also suggest carrying an emergency glucagon kit with you.

Factors That Influence the Frequency of Blood Sugar Testing

Summary of Key Points

The prompt treatment of low blood sugar is crucial. It is important to take the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia seriously as this condition can have fatal consequences if not addressed promptly.

It is important to be mindful of the condition known as hypoglycemia unawareness, where one experiences symptoms but is unable to identify them. Failure to recognize these symptoms can lead to a dangerous drop in blood glucose levels if not addressed promptly.

If you are prone to hypoglycemia and have difficulty recognizing its symptoms, it is important to develop a routine of regularly monitoring your blood glucose levels. It may also be beneficial to test your levels in specific situations, such as before operating a vehicle. Additionally, if you frequently experience low blood sugar, it is recommended to seek medical advice to receive appropriate treatment tailored to your individual needs.

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