What Is Low Blood Sugar?
Low blood sugar is a condition of having lower-than-normal levels of sugar in the circulating blood. Also known as hypoglycemia, having low blood sugar is a pathological condition that has mild to severe effects. Monitoring blood sugar levels and maintaining a healthy diet may prevent the occurrence of low blood sugar levels below 60 mg/dL.
Identification
Under normal conditions, the body is capable of maintaining normal blood sugar levels. Low blood sugar, however, is caused by several factors. It is caused by consuming an increased amount of insulin and other medications. Alcohol is known to lower blood sugar levels. Skipping a meal or eating inadequately will also lower blood sugar levels.
Infections, adrenal malfunction, cancers, liver or kidney failure, or even a tumor that produces insulin are additional causes of hypoglycemia. Low blood sugar is a very common symptom in patients with diabetes mellitus. It can occur from an imbalance in their medication program, as well as from their complimentary diet and exercise programs.
Significance
When blood levels fall below 60mg/dL, the person may experience several physiological changes, such as headache, mood changes, vision problems, tachycardia or a fast heart rate, and hunger. Dangerous levels of low blood sugar produce the more serious symptoms of behavioral fluctuations, confusion and even seizures or unconsciousness. Any changes caused by low blood sugar command immediate medical attention.
Prevention/Solution
Low blood sugar levels can be avoided when protective measures are in place. The first moment that any symptom occurs, address the blood sugar levels immediately. Take special care to check blood sugar levels several times a day. Also, keep on hand immediate food sources of sugar to combat a bout of low blood sugar at its onset. Remember that low blood sugar levels can also be caused by certain medications. Pay close attention to your own body, and contact your health care provider when you become concerned about your sugar levels. Others can provide support by being aware of low blood sugar's signs and symptoms.
Considerations
If you are at risk for low blood sugar, someone close to you should be trained in handling a glucagon emergency kit. Glucagon is a medication prescribed by doctors, which stimulates the immediate release of sugar from the liver. Should an emergency occurrence of low blood sugar take place, call 911 and immediately administer an emergency glucagon kit with the aid of a trained person. Talk with your health care professional about obtain a glucagon emergency kit.
Warning
Low blood sugar levels occur more frequently in females and it mainly affects older adults. Early detection and a quick treatment response usually results in a good prognosis. On the contrary, untreated hypoglycemia can cause severe damage to the nervous system and even lead to death.
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