15-Tue-Apr-2025
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Author :
Dr. Qurat ul Ain
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BUMS
Low blood sugar can be a frightening and potentially dangerous condition if not addressed quickly. It takes place when blood sugar levels drop below normal, causing symptoms such as shakiness, confusion, dizziness, cold sweats or even loss of consciousness. While hypoglycemia is more commonly associated with diabetes, it can also affect individuals without the condition under certain circumstances.
What Causes Low Blood Sugar?
- Medication: For individuals with diabetes, insulin or other blood sugar-lowering medications can sometimes cause blood sugar to drop too low.
- Skipping Meals
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption
- Strenuous Exercise
- Illness or Infection
- Renal dysfunction (due to diabetes)
Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar
- Shakiness or trembling
- Sweating excessively
- Sudden irritability or mood swings
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Weakness or fatigue
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Difficulty concentrating or confusion
- Headache
- Hunger or nausea
- Blurred vision
In more severe cases, hypoglycemia can cause symptoms such as:
- Unconsciousness
- Seizures
- Inability to communicate or respond coherently
- Inappropriate behaviour
How to Manage Low Blood Sugar in an Emergency
Step 1: Check Blood Sugar Levels
If your blood sugar is below 70 mg/dL, it’s time to take action.
Step 2: Consume Fast-Acting Carbohydrates
The key to treating low blood sugar is to quickly raise your glucose levels. You should consume about 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates. These can include:
- Glucose tablets
- Half a cup (4 oz) of regular fruit juice (such as orange juice or apple juice)
- A cup of a regular cold drink (not a diet drink)
- 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar
- Hard candy (check the label to ensure it’s sugar-based, not sugar-free)
It’s important to avoid foods that contain fat or protein, as these will slow down the absorption of glucose.
Step 3: Wait and Recheck Blood Sugar
After consuming the carbohydrate, wait for about 15 minutes, and then check your blood sugar again. If it’s still below 70 mg/dL, repeat the process with another 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates.
Step 4: Eat a Balanced Snack
Once your blood sugar is back within a safe range (above 70 mg/dL), it’s important to eat a balanced snack if the next meal is more than an hour away.
If the individual is unconscious and cannot safely take food or liquids, never try to give them anything by mouth. Instead, call emergency services for immediate assistance.
Preventing Low Blood Sugar
There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia in the first place. Here are some preventive measures:
- Eat Regular Meals and Snacks
- Monitor Blood Sugar Regularly
- Stay Hydrated
- Carry Glucose Tablets or Snacks
- Avoid Excessive Alcohol
- Adjust for Physical Activity
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