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Contents
  • What Causes Hypoglycemia in Diabetes?
  • Recognizing the Signs
  • Prevention and Management

Hypoglycemia: The Hidden Danger for Diabetes Patients

Hypoglycemia: The Hidden Danger for Diabetes Patients

What's This About?

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a common but serious side effect of some diabetes treatments. Understanding this risk is crucial for patients and caregivers managing diabetes.
Contents
  • What Causes Hypoglycemia in Diabetes?
  • Recognizing the Signs
  • Prevention and Management

What Causes Hypoglycemia in Diabetes?

Hypoglycemia often occurs when diabetes medications lower blood sugar too much. This is especially common with insulin and drugs that increase insulin production, like sulfonylureas. Other factors can increase the risk, such as skipping meals, exercising more than usual, or drinking alcohol. Think of it like overshooting the target - aiming for good blood sugar control, but accidentally going too low.

Recognizing the Signs

Early symptoms of hypoglycemia can include shakiness, sweating, hunger, and irritability. If blood sugar drops further, confusion, seizures, or even loss of consciousness can occur. It's crucial for patients and their loved ones to recognize these signs. Some people may develop 'hypoglycemia unawareness' over time, making regular blood sugar checks even more important.
Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels, often resulting from diabetes treatments. It presents symptoms like shakiness, sweating, and irritability.

Prevention and Management

Preventing hypoglycemia starts with proper medication management and regular meals. Patients should always carry fast-acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets. For those at high risk, doctors may recommend less aggressive blood sugar targets. Some newer diabetes medications have a lower risk of causing hypoglycemia. Always discuss any concerns about low blood sugar with your healthcare provider.

FAQs

How low is too low for blood sugar?

Generally, below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) is considered low.

Can hypoglycemia occur during sleep?

Yes, nighttime hypoglycemia is a significant concern for some patients.

Are some people more at risk for hypoglycemia?

Yes, including older adults and those with kidney problems.

Can exercise cause hypoglycemia?

Yes, physical activity can lower blood sugar levels.

How often should I check my blood sugar?

It varies, but those at risk may need to check several times daily.

The Bottom Line

While hypoglycemia is a serious risk, proper education and management can help diabetes patients stay safe and healthy.
Concerned about your risk of hypoglycemia? Talk to Doctronic about creating a personalized prevention plan.
Additional References
  1. Cryer PE. Hypoglycemia in type 1 and type 2 diabetes: physiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management. American Diabetes Association, 2016.
  2. Schopman JE, Simon AC, Hoefnagel SJ, et al. The incidence of mild and severe hypoglycaemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with sulfonylureas: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2014; 30:11.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.