Diabetes and Hypoglycaemia
For newly diagnosed diabetics, the idea of hypoglycaemia can be frightening. This section of Diabetes.co.uk outlines what hypoglycaemia is, and how best to deal with it.
What is hypoglycaemia?
Hypoglycaemia occurs when they level of glucose (sugar) present in the blood falls below a set point – approximately 3.0mmol/l (millimoles per litre.)
What are the symptoms of hypoglycaemia?
The symptoms associated with hypoglycaemia include sweating, fatigue and feeling dizzy. Symptoms can also include being pale, feeling weak, feeling hungry, a higher heart rate than usual, blurred vision, temporary loss of consciousness, confusion, convulsions and even coma.
What are the causes of hypoglycaemia?
Hypoglycaemia is caused by a variety of different factors, all of which diabetics need to be aware of. Alcohol can cause hypoglycaemia, as alcoholic drinks often lower blood sugar levels. Taking too much insulin can also cause hypoglycaemic episodes. Hypos can also occur when the body needs more energy that the calories you have eaten can provide.
How serious is hypoglycaemia?
Hypoglycaemic episodes can range from mild to sever. Mild hypoglycaemia is generally able to be treated by the individual. However, severe hypoglycaemia will need aid from a family member or doctor.
Do symptoms always occur before hypoglycaemia?
Most people experience some warnings before the onset of hypoglycaemia. However, some diabetics may experience little or no warning before the onset of sudden or severe hypoglycaemia.
What is the best way to avoid hypoglycaemia?
To avoid hypoglycaemia, diabetes experts advise diabetics to keep a constant level of glucose in the blood, testing blood sugar levels regularly to make sure they are not rising or falling below the optimum level.
How is hypoglycaemia diagnosed?
A diagnosis of hypoglycaemia is made by measuring blood sugar levels with a glucose meter. Any glucose level below 3.0 mmol/l indicates that the individual has hypoglycaemia. Urine tests do no detect hypoglycaemia.
How do diabetics treat hypoglycaemia?
A mild case of hypoglycaemia can be treated through eating or drinking approximately 10-20g of sugar. Some diabetics carry glucose tablets for this express purpose.
Serious hypoglycaemia will require medical attention. In this instance, paramedics will use glucagon or provide glucose intravenously. Some diabetics have glucagons injections at home, in the form of glucagons kits. This allows immediate treatment and the possibility of avoiding hospital. For those diabetics that experience regular hypoglycaemia, blood sugar levels should be tested regularly.
How can I avoid and be prepared for hypoglycaemia?
Knowing and being aware of the symptoms of hypoglycaemia allow diabetics to get treatment quickly. Experts advise diabetics to always carry sugar (glucose tablets are effective). Measuring glucose levels regularly, and in accordance with one’s lifestyle, is also recommended. Eating regularly and being aware of how food affects your blood sugar levels allows, as does taking care when doing exercise.
