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Last Updated: Jan 10, 2023
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Hypoglycemia - Can It Be Prevented?

Dr. Prof. Deep DuttaEndocrinologist • 11 Years Exp.DM - Endocrinology, DNB (Endocrinology)
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Hypoglycemia is a condition in which the sugar level in the blood falls drastically due to some external factors. This is generally seen in people suffering from diabetes but may also be experienced by otherwise healthy individuals as well. Here is all that you need to know about the causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment of hypoglycemia.

Causes of Hypoglycemia
There are many reasons that can lead to the drastic fall of blood sugar level. In people with diabetes, hypoglycemia may be caused due to excess insulin shots. This can reduce the blood sugar levels far below normal. The same can also occur due to an excessive restriction of glucose in diet and exercise.
Hypoglycemia may also be caused in individuals without diabetes. Excessive alcohol consumption, liver disorders and some medications can be the other reasons behind hypoglycemia among these people.

Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
Symptoms of hypoglycemia may vary from one person to the other. Generally, heart palpitation, shakiness, sweating, excessive hunger, anxiety and irritability are the most common symptoms related to hypoglycemia. However, if the condition is not rectified immediately, the same may deteriorate and lead to severe conditions.
With the worsening of the condition, the symptoms may include seizure, blurred vision, loss of consciousness and general confusion. Sometimes, people with chronic hypoglycemia, act as if they are under the influence of alcohol; they tend to talk with slurring speech and move clumsily.

Prevention for Hypoglycemia
If you suffer from diabetes, ensure that you strictly follow the diet that the doctor has chalked up. This will ensure that the blood glucose levels are maintained. Diabetes patients are also advised to carry something sweet and edible with them at all times. If they feel the onset of hypoglycemia, they can quickly ingest this item to maintain the sugar level.
If you do not have diabetes and yet are suffering from hypoglycemia, make sure that your stomach is never completely empty. This means that you have to eat meals in smaller proportions more frequently.

Treatment for hypoglycemia
There is no separate treatment course that needs to be followed in order to treat hypoglycemia. The best way to treat the disorder is to maintain a diet with enough glucose, so that the body can maintain its regular sugar level and perform all the regular activities. Doctors may sometimes rectify the dosage of insulin if hypoglycemia tends to be a recurring condition in diabetic patients. The intake of any food item having a high concentration of glucose is effective during a hypoglycemic episode. In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

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