Hypoglycaemia (Low Blood Sugar): Symptoms & Treatment

Hypoglycaemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when blood glucose levels drop below the normal range. Symptoms include dizziness, sweating, confusion, and, in severe cases, unconsciousness. Managing hypoglycaemia involves consuming fast-acting carbohydrates, adjusting hypoglycaemia medication, and identifying underlying causes.

Understanding Hypoglycaemia

Hypoglycaemia refers to a condition where blood sugar levels fall too low, typically below 70 mg/dL. While it is most commonly seen in individuals with diabetes, it can also affect people without diabetes due to various medical conditions, prolonged fasting, or excessive physical activity.

A quick check of blood sugar levels can confirm if symptoms are due to hypoglycaemia. If untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including seizures and loss of consciousness.

Symptoms of Hypoglycaemia

The signs of low blood sugar symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to severe neurological impairment.

Mild to Moderate Symptoms

Dizziness & Light-headedness

A sudden drop in blood sugar levels can reduce oxygen supply to the brain, making you feel dizzy or unsteady. In severe cases, it may even lead to fainting.

Sweating

Even in cool environments, excessive sweating—especially on the forehead, neck, or palms—can indicate hypoglycaemia as the body reacts to low glucose by activating the nervous system.

Shakiness & Weakness

When blood sugar drops, the body releases adrenaline, triggering symptoms like trembling, muscle weakness, and a general sense of instability.

Hunger

An intense craving for food, particularly sweets or carbohydrates, is your body’s way of signalling that it needs more glucose to function properly.

Irritability & Mood Swings

Sudden emotional changes, including anxiety, confusion, or aggression, can occur when the brain isn’t receiving enough glucose to regulate mood and cognitive function.

Severe Symptoms

Blurred Vision

Low blood glucose levels can affect the brain and the eyes, leading to temporary blurred or double vision. This occurs because the body struggles to supply enough energy to the optic nerves.

Confusion & Difficulty Concentrating

Since glucose is the brain’s primary fuel source, a drop in blood sugar can lead to mental fog, difficulty processing information, and forgetfulness. Simple tasks may feel overwhelming.

Seizures or Unconsciousness

Severely low blood glucose levels can disrupt normal brain function, leading to seizures, fainting, or even coma. Immediate treatment is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications.
Regularly monitoring blood glucose levels and recognising early signs can prevent severe complications.

What Causes Hypoglycaemia?

Several factors can contribute to low blood sugar, including medical conditions and lifestyle habits.

1. Diabetes & Medications

People with diabetes who take hypoglycaemia medication such as insulin or sulfonylureas are at higher risk, especially if they take too much medication or skip meals.

2. Skipping Meals or Prolonged Fasting

Not eating for extended periods can deplete glucose stores, leading to hypoglycaemia, particularly in individuals on blood sugar-lowering medications.

3. Intense Physical Activity

Excessive exercise without proper carbohydrate intake can lower blood sugar levels, especially in individuals prone to hypoglycaemia.

4. Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol, especially on an empty stomach, can disrupt glucose production in the liver and lead to dangerously low blood sugar.

5. Hormonal Imbalances & Medical Conditions

Certain hormonal disorders, liver diseases, and rare pancreatic tumours (insulinomas) can also cause hypoglycaemia in individuals without diabetes.

Hypoglycaemia Treatment: How to Manage Low Blood Sugar

Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms.

Immediate Treatment: The 15-15 Rule

For mild to moderate hypoglycaemia, follow the 15-15 Rule:

• Consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates, such as:
  • Glucose tablets or gel
  • A small glass of fruit juice or regular soda
  • A tablespoon of honey or sugar
• Wait 15 minutes and recheck blood sugar levels. If still low, repeat until normal.

Long-Term Management

For individuals who experience frequent hypoglycaemia, long-term strategies include:

Adjusting Medications

If you are taking hypoglycaemia medication, your doctor may adjust the dosage or timing to prevent sudden drops in blood sugar levels. This is especially important for people with diabetes.

Dietary Modifications

A well-balanced diet with complex carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats helps maintain stable blood glucose levels. Eating small, frequent meals can prevent blood sugar crashes.

Exercise Management

Since physical activity affects blood sugar levels, monitoring before and after workouts is essential. Adjusting carbohydrate intake based on activity levels can help prevent hypoglycaemia.

Medical Devices

Devices like Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) provide real-time data, allowing individuals to track blood sugar fluctuations and receive alerts before levels drop too low.

If hypoglycaemia is caused by an underlying condition, further treatment may be necessary.

When to See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention if you:

• Experience frequent episodes of hypoglycaemia despite following preventive measures.
• Have severe symptoms like confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
• Suspect an underlying health issue, such as a hormonal imbalance or liver disease.

For those in Bangalore, consulting an expert at the Best Endocrinologists and Diabetologists in Bangalore can help identify the cause and create an effective management plan.

Conclusion

Hypoglycaemia is a manageable condition, but recognising blood sugar symptoms early and responding quickly is essential to prevent severe complications. Keeping a check on blood sugar levels, following a balanced diet, and adjusting hypoglycaemia medication under medical supervision can help maintain stable blood glucose levels. If you experience frequent episodes, seeking professional advice from a specialist is crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you treat hypoglycaemia quickly?

If your blood sugar drops too low, the best way to raise it quickly is by consuming fast-acting carbohydrates. A small glass of fruit juice, a teaspoon of honey, or glucose tablets can help restore balance. Wait 15 minutes, then check your levels again—repeat if necessary.

Can hypoglycaemia go away on its own?

Mild cases can improve once you eat, but if you experience frequent episodes, it could signal an underlying issue. It’s essential to monitor your blood glucose levels and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

What foods help prevent hypoglycaemia?

A diet rich in complex carbs, protein, and healthy fats can keep blood sugar stable. Whole grains, lean meats, nuts, and dairy products provide steady energy and help prevent sudden drops.

When should I check my blood sugar for hypoglycaemia?

If you’re prone to low blood sugar symptoms, monitor your levels before meals, after exercise, and at bedtime to catch fluctuations early and adjust your food intake accordingly.