What Does Hypoglycemia Feel Like and What Should You Do?

What Does Hypoglycemia Feel Like and What Should You Do?

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can be a frightening experience. It occurs when your blood glucose levels drop too low, typically below 70 mg/dL. Understanding what hypoglycemia feels like and knowing how to respond effectively is crucial, especially for individuals with diabetes. This article will guide you through the symptoms of hypoglycemia, potential causes, and the steps you should take to treat it.

Recognizing the Signs: What Does Hypoglycemia Feel Like?

The symptoms of hypoglycemia can vary from person to person, and even from episode to episode. It’s important to be aware of your own personal warning signs. Initial symptoms often appear before blood sugar drops critically low, serving as a warning to take action.

Here’s a breakdown of potential symptoms, categorized by severity:

Mild to Moderate Symptoms:

  • Shakiness and Trembling: A feeling of instability or involuntary shaking is a common early sign.
  • Sweating: Excessive sweating, even in cool environments, can indicate a drop in blood sugar.
  • Dizziness or Lightheadedness: A feeling of imbalance or feeling faint can be a precursor to a more serious episode.
  • Hunger: Paradoxically, low blood sugar can trigger a feeling of intense hunger.
  • Irritability or Confusion: Changes in mood, increased irritability, or difficulty concentrating are frequently reported.
  • Headache: A throbbing or dull headache can occur.
  • Rapid Heartbeat: A sensation of your heart racing or pounding.
  • Blurred Vision: Changes in your eyesight.

Severe Symptoms (Requires Immediate Assistance):

  • Confusion and Disorientation: Severe difficulty thinking clearly or understanding your surroundings.
  • Seizures: Uncontrolled muscle contractions and loss of consciousness.
  • Loss of Consciousness (Passing Out): Complete loss of awareness.
  • Inability to Speak: Difficulty forming words or communicating.

Important Note: Some individuals, especially those who frequently experience hypoglycemia, may lose the ability to recognize their symptoms (hypoglycemia unawareness). This is why regular blood sugar monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider are essential.

Causes of Hypoglycemia

Several factors can contribute to hypoglycemia. Understanding these causes can help you prevent episodes.

  • Medication: Taking too much insulin or certain diabetes medications is a common cause.
  • Missed or Delayed Meals: Skipping meals or waiting too long between them can lead to low blood sugar.
  • Insufficient Carbohydrate Intake: Not consuming enough carbohydrates can deplete your body's glucose supply.
  • Excessive Exercise: Strenuous physical activity without adequate carbohydrate intake can lower blood sugar.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can interfere with the liver's ability to release glucose.
  • Certain Medical Conditions: Conditions like kidney disease or liver disease can affect blood sugar regulation.
  • Rebound Effect: Overcorrecting a high blood sugar with too much insulin can lead to a subsequent drop.

What to Do When You Experience Hypoglycemia: The Rule of 15

The "Rule of 15" is a widely accepted and effective guideline for treating mild to moderate hypoglycemia.

  1. Check Your Blood Sugar: If possible, confirm your low blood sugar with a glucose meter.
  2. Consume 15 Grams of Fast-Acting Carbohydrates: Examples include:
    • 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of juice or regular soda (not diet)
    • 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar
    • 4-5 hard candies
    • Glucose tablets or gel (follow package instructions)
  3. Wait 15 Minutes: Allow the carbohydrates to begin raising your blood sugar.
  4. Recheck Your Blood Sugar: After 15 minutes, check your blood sugar again.
  5. Repeat if Necessary: If your blood sugar is still below 70 mg/dL, repeat steps 1-4.
  6. Eat a Small Snack: Once your blood sugar is above 70 mg/dL, eat a small snack containing both carbohydrates and protein to help stabilize your blood sugar and prevent another drop. Examples include:
    • Crackers with peanut butter
    • Apple slices with cheese
    • Yogurt

Severe Hypoglycemia (Requires Immediate Assistance):

If you are experiencing severe hypoglycemia (loss of consciousness, seizures, inability to swallow), do not attempt to give yourself anything by mouth.

  • Call for Help Immediately: Have someone call 911 or your local emergency number.
  • Glucagon Injection: If you have been prescribed glucagon, a caregiver should administer it according to the instructions. Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood sugar levels.
  • Turn the Person on Their Side: If the person is unconscious, position them on their side to prevent choking.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing hypoglycemia is key to managing diabetes effectively.

  • Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring: Check your blood sugar levels frequently, especially before meals, exercise, and bedtime.
  • Consistent Meal Schedule: Eat meals and snacks at regular intervals to maintain stable blood sugar.
  • Adjust Medication as Needed: Work with your healthcare provider to adjust your medication dosage if necessary.
  • Plan Ahead for Exercise: Increase carbohydrate intake before and during exercise.
  • Educate Caregivers: Ensure that family members and friends know how to recognize and treat hypoglycemia.
  • Wear Medical Identification: Carry a medical identification card or bracelet indicating that you have diabetes.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance on managing your diabetes.