Low Blood Sugar

Hypoglycemia occurs when your blood glucose level is lower than normal. When blood glucose drops below 70 mg/dL, failure to bring it back up quickly can lead to potentially dangerous side effects including passing out, coma, and death. If you experience low blood glucose levels a few times a week, you need to talk to your doctor or diabetes educator. There are many things that can cause low blood glucose including diet, exercise, medication, and even supplements. An adjustment might be necessary to ensure proper blood glucose management.

Signs of low blood glucose include:

• Blurry Vision
• Rapid Heartbeat
• Sudden Mood Change
• Nervousness
• Unexplained Fatigue
• Pale Skin
• Headache
• Hunger
• Shaking
• Sweating
• Trouble Sleeping
• Tingling Skin
• Trouble Concentrating
• Loss of Consciousness

If you or anyone else is exhibiting signs of hypoglycemia eating about 15 grams of a carbohydrate that can be quickly digested as soon as possible is recommended. Some examples of carbs that might be readily available include:

• Glucose tablets
• Glucose gel
• A half cup of juice or soda
• 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar
• 5 Saltine crackers
• Hard candy
• 1 cup milk

If you have diabetes, it is important that the people around you regularly are aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia and what needs to be done in an emergency situation. Wearing a medical id bracelet is also a good idea. In case of an emergency, responders will be better able to get you the care you need faster.  

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