Hypoglycemia, commonly known as low blood sugar, happens when blood glucose levels fall below the normal range, typically under 70 mg/dL. Glucose is the body’s main energy source, vital for brain function and overall metabolism. When levels drop, individuals may experience symptoms like shakiness, sweating, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, hunger, or confusion. In severe cases, hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, unconsciousness, or other life-threatening complications. Causes include skipped meals, excessive insulin or oral hypoglycemic medication, alcohol consumption, hormonal imbalances, liver or heart conditions, and certain infections. Early recognition, proper monitoring, and timely intervention with fast-acting carbohydrates or medical treatment are crucial to prevent serious consequences and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
What is Hypoglycemia: How blood sugar drops
Blood glucose is tightly regulated by hormones, liver function, and dietary intake. Hypoglycemia occurs when the balance between glucose supply and demand is disrupted. The body relies on glucose for energy, and the brain is particularly sensitive to shortages. When glucose levels drop, the body responds with a series of warning signs such as sweating, tremors, rapid heartbeat, and mental confusion. Long-term or severe hypoglycemia can lead to neurological damage, making early detection critical.
Key causes of Hypoglycemia : Drugs, alcohol, hormones, illness, heart, and infections
How diabetes medicines can trigger hypoglycemiaOne of the most common causes of hypoglycemia in adults is medication use, particularly in people with diabetes. Insulin, which lowers blood glucose, can sometimes lower it excessively if the dosage is too high or meals are skipped. Oral hypoglycemic drugs (OHAs) work similarly by stimulating insulin production or increasing its effectiveness. If blood sugar drops too low, it can lead to dizziness, fatigue, anxiety, or even fainting. Careful monitoring of glucose levels, proper medication timing, and dietary consistency are key to preventing drug-induced hypoglycemia.Alcohol consumption and blood sugar imbalanceAlcohol can significantly disrupt glucose regulation. The liver processes alcohol instead of focusing on breaking down glycogen or performing gluconeogenesis, both critical for maintaining blood sugar. This effect can lead to hypoglycemia, particularly if alcohol is consumed on an empty stomach or in large amounts. People with diabetes or low baseline blood sugar should be cautious, as alcohol may mask early hypoglycemia symptoms, delaying treatment.Hormonal imbalances and hypoglycemiaHormones like cortisol, glucagon, and epinephrine play crucial roles in blood sugar regulation. Cortisol and glucagon stimulate glucose production in the liver, while epinephrine mobilizes glucose during stress. A deficiency or imbalance in these hormones can prevent the body from correcting low blood sugar naturally. In cases of extreme exhaustion or prolonged fasting (inanition), these hormonal mechanisms fail, causing hypoglycemia.Critical illness and liver dysfunctionSevere illnesses or liver dysfunction can impair glucose production. The liver generates glucose through glycogenolysis (breaking down stored glycogen) and gluconeogenesis (producing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources). Liver failure or critical illness can compromise these processes, leading to persistent hypoglycemia. Conditions like sepsis, hepatitis, or advanced liver disease can make low blood sugar episodes more frequent and dangerous.Cardiac conditions and glucose availabilityHeart problems can indirectly cause hypoglycemia. In heart failure, reduced blood flow limits the liver’s ability to access substrates needed for glucose production. This can result in insufficient glucose supply for the body, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or confusion. Cardiac patients must monitor both cardiovascular health and blood sugar levels closely to prevent compounded complications.Infections and increased glucose utilisationCertain infections, particularly malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, can increase glucose consumption in the body. The parasite has a high metabolic rate, consuming significant amounts of glucose from the host’s bloodstream. This effect is especially pronounced in children and pregnant women, potentially causing severe hypoglycemia if not managed promptly.
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia : How to recognise low blood sugar
Hypoglycemia can manifest through various physical and cognitive symptoms. Early signs include sweating, trembling, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, and hunger. As blood sugar drops further, individuals may experience dizziness, headache, blurred vision, confusion, or difficulty concentrating. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to seizures, unconsciousness, or brain damage if not treated immediately. Awareness of these symptoms is essential for timely intervention.
Understanding the dangers of hypoglycemia and its management
While hyperglycemia is often highlighted as dangerous in diabetes management, hypoglycemia can be more immediately life-threatening. Repeated or prolonged low blood sugar episodes can damage neurons, impair cognitive function, and increase the risk of accidents due to fainting or confusion. In children and the elderly, the risks are even higher, emphasizing the importance of prevention and prompt treatment.Mild hypoglycemia can be treated with fast-acting carbohydrates such as fruits (bananas, apples), candies, or glucose tablets. For severe cases, intravenous dextrose may be necessary. In some situations, glucagon injections are administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously to rapidly raise blood glucose, although they are not recommended for hypoglycemia caused by oral hypoglycemic drugs. Preventive measures include regular monitoring of blood sugar, consistent meals, and proper management of medications.Also Read | Biohacker Bryan Johnson reveals his shocking $2 million 5-hour daily routine that could reverse ageing and help him live forever
