Hypoglycemia – Understanding Its Causal Factors

The condition of hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar, occurs when the body’s blood sugar levels drop too low. It can cause dizziness, weakness, shakes, confusion, irritability, and many other symptoms. Hypoglycemia can be a dangerous condition, so it is important to be aware of its potential causes.

What Is the Normal Range of Blood Sugar?

To understand hypoglycemia, it is important to first understand the normal range of blood sugar, formally known as glucose. The body’s typical range of glucose falls between 3.9 to 10.0 mmol/L, although this can vary. This range is considered normal for a person who has eaten within the last three hours and held off from major exercise or excess physical strain.

Common Causes of Hypoglycemia

There are several common causes of hypoglycemia, including diet changes, an overdose of diabetes medications and excessive physical activity.

Diets high in carbohydrates, or eating large meals or snacks in between meals, can cause hypoglycemia. A decrease in insulin due to the large carbohydrate intake could cause a drop in blood sugar. It is also important to maintain a balanced diet, as eating too much sugar can also cause hypoglycemia.

A decrease in insulin caused by an overdose of diabetes medications can also lead to hypoglycemia. If too much medication is taken, it can cause an excessive drop in insulin levels and thus, an associated drop in blood sugar.

Finally, physical activity can also cause hypoglycemia. Too much physical activity can cause the body to burn glucose that would otherwise be available for use in the bloodstream, leading to hypoglycemia.

Less Common Causes of Hypoglycemia

While the three causes listed above are the most common, hypoglycemia can also be caused by certain medications, hormonal imbalances, liver problems, alcohol abuse, and a few other factors. It is important to speak with your healthcare provider if you are experiencing hypoglycemic episodes, as there may be an underlying condition that requires medical intervention.

Conclusion

Hypoglycemia is a potentially dangerous condition that can have a variety of causes. The most common causes of hypoglycemia are diet changes, an overdose of diabetes medications, and physical activity. Less common causes include certain medications, hormonal imbalances, liver problems, and alcohol abuse. If you are experiencing hypoglycemic episodes, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider, as there could be an underlying condition that requires medical intervention.