Blood sugar (glucose) levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day due to various factors. While minor variations are normal and may go unnoticed, dangerously low blood sugar levels can be a serious concern. When blood sugar falls below the healthy range, it is known as hypoglycemia and requires immediate action to bring it back to the target range.

Hypoglycemia commonly occurs in people with diabetes who take insulin or certain oral diabetes medications. It impairs the body’s ability to function properly due to abnormally low blood sugar levels. If you use insulin or diabetes medication and experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as shakiness, dizziness, sweating, or hunger, it is essential to test your blood sugar levels using a glucose meter. If the result indicates low blood sugar (below 70 mg/dL), take appropriate measures.

Early signs of hypoglycemia should be addressed promptly. Consuming 15 grams of carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets, sugar candies, gel candies, juice, or honey, can help stabilize blood sugar levels at home. In severe cases where consciousness is affected, immediate medical attention should be sought, and glucose can be administered through injection or intravenous fluids.

Common causes of diabetic hypoglycemia include excessive insulin or diabetes medication, insufficient food intake, meal or snack delays or omissions, increased physical activity without adjustments to medication or food, and alcohol consumption. Hypoglycemia can affect the brain, leading to symptoms like confusion, inability to concentrate, irritability, headache, and visual disturbances.

To prevent diabetic hypoglycemia, it is crucial to monitor blood sugar levels regularly, adhere to consistent meal and snack schedules, take medication as prescribed, adjust medication or increase snacks when engaging in physical activity, keep a record of low glucose reactions, and carry diabetes identification for emergency situations.

By following these preventive measures and maintaining careful control over blood sugar levels, individuals with diabetes can minimize the risk of hypoglycemia and its associated complications.^16,17