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Contents
  • What is Hypoglycemia?
  • Who is at Risk?
  • Long-Term Effects of Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia: What You Need to Know About This Diabetes Complication

Hypoglycemia: What You Need to Know About This Diabetes Complication

The Big Picture

Hypoglycemia is a common complication for people with diabetes, characterized by dangerously low blood sugar levels. Understanding its causes and symptoms is key to managing it effectively.
Contents
  • What is Hypoglycemia?
  • Who is at Risk?
  • Long-Term Effects of Hypoglycemia

What is Hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels fall below normal, typically less than 70 mg/dL. It can happen when there is too much insulin or not enough glucose in the body. Managing diabetes medications and diet can help prevent these episodes.

Who is at Risk?

People with diabetes taking insulin or other glucose-lowering medications are at higher risk. Factors such as skipped meals, excessive exercise, and medication errors can increase the likelihood. Understanding these triggers helps in taking preventive measures.
Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by an abnormally low level of blood sugar, a complication commonly associated with diabetes. It can cause symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, and confusion.

Long-Term Effects of Hypoglycemia

Frequent episodes of hypoglycemia can lead to impaired awareness of low blood sugar, increasing the risk of severe events. Long-term effects may include cardiovascular issues and cognitive impairment. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for long-term health.

FAQs

What causes hypoglycemia?

It's caused by too much insulin or low glucose intake.

Who is most at risk?

People on insulin or glucose-lowering medications are at higher risk.

What are the long-term effects?

It can lead to cardiovascular issues and cognitive problems.

How can I prevent hypoglycemia?

Managing medications, diet, and recognizing triggers can help.

Key Takeaways

Understanding and managing hypoglycemia is essential for those with diabetes to maintain overall health.
Talk with Doctronic to learn more about managing hypoglycemia and safeguarding your health.
Additional References
  1. Seaquist ER, Anderson J, Childs B, et al. Hypoglycemia and diabetes: a report of a workgroup of the American Diabetes Association and the Endocrine Society. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2013; 98:1845.
  2. Cryer PE. Hypoglycemia in Diabetes. Pathophysiology, Prevalence, and Prevention, 3rd ed. American Diabetes Association. Alexandria 2016
  3. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. 6. Glycemic Goals and Hypoglycemia: Standards of Care in Diabetes-2024. Diabetes Care 2024; 47:S111.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.