Hypoglycemia: What You Need to Know

I remember quite vividly how confusion reigned over me the first time I

visited a local hospital in my area. The doctor had informed me that I had been officially diagnosed with hypoglycemia (low blood glucose), sending me into an almost quiet panic. In an instant, my legs began to shake as the possibility of horrible health, or even death came into my mind. Back then I wasn't quite familiar with the disease, nor what it meant for my future. But then again I am still here today, despite my diagnosis long ago. Hypoglycemia fortunately isn't as deadly as it sounds, and can very well be easily treated. Had I known that during my appointment, I would have been more at ease, but hopefully this article saves a few headaches for anyone else in a similar situation. In this article, we will enlighten you on this simple-but-killable disease, hypoglycemia, its causes, symptoms, treatment and how to prevent it.

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Written By: Chisom Joshua

June 7th, 2022

What is hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia is a health condition that occurs when the level of glucose in the

blood becomes lower than the normal range. Most times the decrease of the blood

glucose level is not noticeable until it falls below 70 mg/dl. At this point, trouble is

imminent and should be closely monitored and treated.

What happens when your blood-glucose level becomes lower than normal?

Individuals react differently to the decrease of glucose in the blood, and so

provides the need to learn how your body reacts when your blood glucose is low.

However, these are common signs and symptoms of low blood glucose:

● Fast heartbeat

● Nausea

● Feeling sleepy

● Weakness

● Seizures

● Nervousness

● Hunger

● Dizziness

● Shakiness

As hypoglycemia worsens, signs and symptoms may include:

● Loss of coordination

● Slurred speech

● Blurry vision

● Nightmare

What can cause low blood glucose?

Low blood glucose is usually noticed in people suffering from diabetes. Who, in a

way of helping themselves, take insulin, which is a hormone produced by the

pancreas that controls the blood glucose by converting excess glucose to glycogen.

Insulin

Taking too much insulin is a sure cause of low blood glucose. Injecting

the wrong type of insulin or injecting insulin directly into the muscle

instead of just under the skin, can cause low blood glucose.

Diet

Surprisingly, the food we eat can also cause our blood glucose to go

below normal. These are how food can cause low blood glucose:

● Not eating enough carbohydrates

● The composition of the meal- how much protein, fat, and fiber are

present-can as well affect the absorption of carbohydrates.

● Eating food that contains less carbohydrate than the amount of

insulin taken.

● Drinking alcohol without eating any food.

How can an individual with hypoglycemia be treated?

It’s a great news that hypoglycemia can be treated. The American Diabetes Association recommends a smart method of treatment known as the “15-15” rule, which suggest that whenever you check your blood sugar and notice it’s below 70mg/dl, take juice, glucose tablets or hard candy to boost your glucose level, then check it again after another 15 minutes. Repeat this procedure until your blood glucose gets back to normal. Once your blood glucose is back to normal, try eating a meal or snack to ensure it doesn’t get down again.

How to Prevent Hypoglycemia

Prevention of hypoglycemia is not as easy as the procedures seem. Most times they are difficult to follow, but you can prevent it by following the following procedures:

● Monitor your blood sugar from time to time.

● Do not skip or delay meals.

● Adjust your medication or make sure you eat additional snacks

after your physical activity

● Do not drink alcohol without eating.

Conclusion

Hypoglycemia is a condition that affects both adults and children, the if you notice any signs mentioned in this article, do not hesitate to visit your doctor, ad consult with a professional before making any changes to your lifestyle.

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Works Cited:

-WebMD. Mary. J. DiLonardo (2021). Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

-Mayo clinic (n.d). Hypoglycemia

-American Diabetes Association (n.d). Blood glucose testing and management.

-https://www.endocrine.org/patient-engagement/endocrine-library/hypoglycemia