How to Avoid Hypoglycemia

A condition associated with diabetes and with very low blood glucose or blood sugar levels is called by the name hypoglycemia. Other conditions such as kidney disorder, tumor, liver disease or hormone deficiency can also cause this condition.

Hypoglycemia is generally seen in people who are dependent on oral drugs or insulin or both to control blood sugar. If a more than normal dose of oral drugs or insulin is given, blood sugar may fall to very low levels. Some persons may suffer from this condition if they exercise more or eat poorly subsequent to the intake of the prescribed medication.

Hypoglycemia may also be suffered by those who do not suffer from diabetes. Postprandial or reactive hypoglycemia occurs generally within four hours after the meal is taken. Factors such as enzyme deficiency or gastric surgery can also lead to this condition. Also the condition may occur as an after effect of medications such as quinine, salicyclates, serious illness, alcohol consumption, tumors and hormonal deficiencies. Hypoglycemia that occurs owing to these reasons is called as post absorptive or fasting hypoglycemia.

Other symptoms that may be suffered by people diagnosed with this condition include unexplained or profuse sweating, extreme hunger, profound weakness and palpitations etc. Other symptoms include confusion, drowsiness, speech and visual difficulties and others that may be caused owing to low glucose levels of the brain. If immediate medical attention is not given it can lead to unconsciousness and seizures also. This condition can also occur during sleep when a patient may experience sweats, nightmares etc. Hypoglycemia can become a fatal condition when left untreated. It can also lead to convulsions and unconsciousness.

You must consume food at regular intervals of time to be free from this condition. Dangerous drop in blood sugar can result by skipping meals when you take diabetes medication. You must also avoid excess intake of alcohol especially on an empty stomach. You must be able to identify the factors causing hypoglycemia and its symptoms as well. Your family and friends must also be educated regarding this. You can also make use of a blood glucose monitoring kit and keep foods rich in glucose so that you can be prepared for emergencies.