Facts about Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar or Hypoglycemia is very common condition among people with diabetes. The hormones produced in the body helps to keep the blood sugar in a normal range. Blood sugar can drop to lower levels due to a long-term health problem requiring treatment. Those who are suffering from diabetes are more prone to develop low blood sugar.

Causes for Hypoglycemia
Certain drugs such as aspirin, monoamine oxidase inhibitors and quinine sulfate can lead to low blood sugar. Diseases affecting the pancreas, kidneys, liver, adrenal glands, or other organs, intake of too much alcohol, problems associated with surgery of the stomach and metabolism problems can cause this condition.

Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
Depending on the extent of blood sugar drop, symptoms can vary. You may feel vomiting sensation or feeling of hunger with mild hypoglycemia. You can also experience faster heart beat, nervous or jittery feelings or perspiration owing to hypoglycemia. In the case of those suffering from moderate hypoglycemia, they may be confused, short-tempered or afraid. They may also have trouble walking. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to unconsciousness and seizures. It can eventually lead to coma or death.

Diagnosis
Your doctor will put you through a physical examination and ask certain questions about your all round health to diagnose this condition. You may have to undergo tests to ascertain your blood sugar levels. You may also be questioned regarding any recent weight gain or weight loss and the other medicines you are taking presently. In case the blood test indicates that you have low blood sugar, and your symptoms go away after you consume a sweet or juice with sugar, you probably have hypoglycemia.

How is it treated?
If it is confirmed that you have low blood sugar, you must eat something sugary or a drink with some sugar in it. Taking glucose tablets is also advocated.

You must get to know the situations or problems that can induce low blood sugar. You must also pay due care and attention to your lifestyle. You can consult your doctor and change your diet and medicines or change the way you exercise. Future problems can be eradicated by treating the health problem that is leading to this condition in the first place.