Have you ever heard about hypoglycemia? This condition occurs when your blood sugar levels are too low. Many of us believe that only people with diabetes may experience hypoglycemia, but it isn’t exactly so. Let’s find out why hypoglycemia happens and what to do to prevent this health problem.
A person with diabetes gets hypoglycemia when his or her body doesn’t have enough sugar to function properly. Several factors, including certain medications, diets, and exercises, may result in this condition. Too much insulin level may also cause low blood sugar. But hypoglycemia can show up even in people without diabetes. Yes, it happens when your body can’t control your blood sugar levels.
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What are the signs of hypoglycemia? Every person may react differently to changes in their blood sugar levels, but the most common symptoms are:
1. Extreme hunger.
2. Dizziness.
3. Headache.
4. Confusion.
5. Problems with concentration.
6. Sweating.
7. Shaking.
8. Blurred vision.
There are two different types of hypoglycemia: reactive and non-reactive. The former occurs when your body starts producing too much insulin just after your meal. It usually happens within several hours after eating. Having reactive hypoglycemia increases the risk of developing diabetes.
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Non-reactive (or fasting) hypoglycemia is not related to meals. The causes are some medications, liver, kidney or heart disorders, certain eating problems (anorexia), and large amounts of alcohol.
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The risk factors are:
1. Obesity.
2. Prediabetes.
3. Other health problems.
4. Family members with diabetes.
Hypoglycemia may have serious complications, so see your doctor as soon as possible if you suspect that your blood sugar levels are unstable. The physician will identify the cause of your problem and offer the right therapy for you.