Subscribe to our blogs

Reviewed by

Dr. Sridevi Atluri

Consultant - Diabetes & Endocrinology

Manipal Hospitals, Whitefield

Book Appointment

Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Causes, Symptoms & Quick Fixes

Reviewed by:

Lower-than-normal blood glucose levels result in hypoglycemia, which prevents the body from receiving adequate energy. Although it can occur to anybody, people with diabetes, particularly those using insulin or certain oral medications (like sulfonylureas), are at a higher risk. If you're experiencing frequent episodes, it's important to consult a specialist for guidance. Medical complications such as fainting and seizures can develop if symptoms go unrecognised. Most people stay protected by using fast-acting sugars and learning effective prevention methods. This blog explains hypoglycaemia symptoms, its triggers, response strategies, and protection measures.

What Causes Hypoglycemia?

Individuals with diabetes are at increased risk of low blood sugar due to the use of insulin therapy or specific pharmacological treatments. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can affect individuals managing blood sugar levels through medication or insulin therapy for other medical conditions.

Diabetes Medication or Insulin: Blood sugar levels can drop rapidly if you receive excessive amounts of diabetes medication or insulin, miss a meal, or engage in intense exercise.
Skipping Meals: A lack of food limits your body's access to glucose, especially when using diabetes medications that affect blood sugar levels.
Excessive Physical Activity: Prolonged or intense physical exercise depletes stored glucose, causing blood sugar levels to drop unless replenished.
Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach can prevent the liver from releasing glucose, resulting in dangerously low blood sugar levels.
Certain Medical Conditions: Conditions such as liver disease, kidney disorders, adrenal insufficiency, or insulin-producing tumors can lead to unexpected drops in blood sugar.

Types of Hypoglycemia

There are different types of hypoglycaemia, depending on when it happens, what causes it, and whether a person has diabetes. While all types involve low blood sugar, their triggers and timing can vary. Here are the main types of hypoglycaemia:

Reactive Hypoglycemia: This occurs a few hours after eating when the body releases too much insulin in response to food.
Fasting Hypoglycemia: This happens after long periods without food, often due to underlying medical conditions or certain medications.
Diabetic Hypoglycemia: This is the most common type in people with diabetes, caused by too much insulin, skipping meals, or excessive exercise.
Alcohol-Induced Hypoglycemia: Drinking alcohol without food can block the liver from releasing stored glucose, causing a drop in blood sugar.
Medication-Induced Hypoglycemia: Some non-diabetes medications, such as quinine or beta-blockers, can lead to low blood sugar in sensitive individuals.
Post-Exercise Hypoglycemia: After intense or prolonged physical activity, the body may continue to use glucose at a high rate, leading to a delayed drop in blood sugar.

Common Low Blood Sugar Symptoms

The body provides warning signs when blood sugar levels drop, and recognising them early can help prevent dangerous decreases. Symptoms vary from person to person and can change over time depending on how often low sugar episodes occur. Here are the most noticeable hypoglycaemia symptoms:

Shakiness or Trembling: This is often the first sign that blood sugar is falling and the body needs energy quickly.
Sweating: Cold, clammy skin or unexpected sweating without physical exertion is a key warning sign.
Fast Heartbeat: A racing or irregular heartbeat can occur as the body reacts to low glucose levels.
Irritability or Mood Changes: Sudden mood swings, anxiety, or even confusion are early signs of hypoglycemia symptoms.
Hunger: Intense and sudden hunger, especially if you’ve just eaten, may signal a sugar crash.
Blurred Vision: Vision changes, dizziness, or lightheadedness are signs that the brain isn't getting enough glucose.
Weakness or Fatigue: Feeling tired or shaky without an apparent cause may indicate that the body lacks essential fuel.

Hypoglycemia and low blood sugar symptoms and treatment

Hypoglycemia Management

Effective hypoglycaemia management can prevent more serious complications. The goal is to raise blood sugar to a safe level using quick sources of glucose and then monitor for recurring symptoms. Here are some proven ways to manage and treat low blood sugar levels, including adjustments to your diet to help maintain stable glucose levels:

Take Fast-Acting Carbohydrates: To raise levels fast, eat or drink something with 15 grams of sugar, like fruit juice, glucose tablets, or hard candy.
Check Blood Sugar: If you use a glucometer, check your level before and after treatment to ensure it returns to normal.
Eat a Balanced Snack: After consuming quick sugar, follow up with a snack that includes protein and complex carbs, such as peanut butter on toast or a small sandwich.
Avoid Over-Treatment: Too much sugar too fast can cause a spike and lead to a later blood sugar crash.
Rest and Monitor: Sit or lie down if needed, and wait 15 - 20 minutes after eating sugar before resuming activity or driving.
Inform Someone: Let someone near you know what’s happening in case you need help if symptoms worsen.

Conclusion

Hypoglycemia can be dangerous, but with the proper knowledge and quick action, it can be managed effectively. From knowing the symptoms of low blood sugar to learning how to treat and prevent it, you can stay safe and in control. If you experience frequent or unexplained drops in blood sugar, consult an experienced endocrinologist in Bangalore to adjust your treatment plan. Staying prepared is the key to avoiding serious health issues caused by low blood sugar.

FAQ's

What is considered low blood sugar?

Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, is generally defined as a blood glucose level below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L). While this is the common threshold, symptoms can vary individually, and some people may not feel them until levels drop even lower. A blood sugar level below 54 mg/dL (3.0 mmol/L) is considered a medical alert and requires immediate action.