LOW BLOOD SUGAR (HYPOGLYCEMIA)

LOW BLOOD SUGAR (HYPOGLYCEMIA)

CAUSES

·         Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can occur in insulin-dependent diabetics at some point.

·         It develops if the blood glucose level dips below the normal level of 70 mg/dl.

·         This may be caused by insufficient intake of food, too much exercise, or excessive alcohol.

·         People who inject insulin, or consume oral pills, are at a greater risk of developing hypoglycemia.

·         Although the condition is manageable, occasionally it can become severe or life-threatening.

SYMPTOMS

·         Mild symptoms usually include sweating, trembling, hunger and rapid heartbeat.

·         Severely low blood glucose levels can also cause neurological symptoms such as confusion, weakness, disorientation and aggressiveness.

·         People with hypoglycemia may have trouble concentrating or seeing clearly behind the wheel.

·         They may not be able to react quickly to road hazards or to actions of other drivers.

·         In rare, worst-case scenarios, hypoglycemia can lead to coma, seizure and death.

PRECAUTIONS

·         As hypoglycemia can appear without warning, diabetics should check the blood glucose level before starting out at work, or on the road, as a preventive measure.

·         During long road trips, check the blood glucose levels frequently and eat carbohydrate snacks, glucose tablets, candy and fruit juice so as to keep the level at 70mg/dl or above.

·         Take regular snack breaks in your office, and a walk every once in a while to release stress.

·         Keep yourself hydrated and make sure you come to office with a fresh mind, with good sleep.

·         Eat some carbohydrates before and during exercising to prevent fatigue and hypoglycemia.

·         Make sure that your diet includes wholegrain, fibre and green vegetables at frequent intervals.

·         Plan smaller meals and avoid alcohol.

NEW DRUGS

·         Insulin shots and oral medications in excess increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

·         A new class of drugs such as GLP 1 can minimize the risk of hypoglycemia besides controlling blood sugar in Type 2 diabetics, after consultation with your doctor.

·         These drugs enhance insulin secretion from the pancreas only in the presence of high sugar, thus minimizing the risk for hypoglycemia. 

·         Diet, exercise and medication are the three main pillars of effective diabetes management.