What Causes Low Blood Sugar

Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, is an imbalance in the body’s glucose levels, when there isn’t enough sugar in the bloodstream for the body to function properly. Low blood sugar can lead to a wide range of symptoms and is surprisingly common, so it’s important to know the causes, symptoms, and treatments.

What Causes Low Blood Sugar

Low blood sugar usually occurs as a result of food or medication. Eating meals that are high in carbohydrates and simple sugars, either by accidentally not eating enough protein to properly balance the meal or due to the intentional regulation of the diet, can lead to low blood sugar after the glucose spike wears off.

Medications, such as certain types of insulin used to treat diabetes, can also cause low blood sugar if taken in too high doses or not timed in order to offset meals. People with diabetes are very susceptible to hypoglycemia if they take too much insulin, forget a meal, or have an unusually active or stressful day.

Low Blood Sugar Symptoms

The onset of low blood sugar symptoms can be very mild or quite severe, depending on the cause and the individual person. Common symptoms include feeling dizzy, having a headache, sudden shakiness or nervousness, suddenly feeling very weak or exhausted, and having trouble concentrating. Some people may feel irritable, drowsy, or have a racing heart. In more serious cases, the person may become confused or restless and require immediate medical attention.

Treating Low Blood Sugar

Treating low blood sugar is relatively simple; the person must first consume sugar or carbohydrates. Eating a snack with a high sugar content, such as a piece of candy, a glucose tablet, or even a sugary soda, will promote rapid recovery. Eating a balanced meal, with carbohydrates, fats, and proteins can also help to raise blood sugar levels and help avoid the low blood sugar situation in the future.

It is important to note that low blood sugar can lead to serious symptoms that require medical treatment. If you or a loved one experience any of the symptoms of low blood sugar, it is recommended to seek medical assistance right away. With proper diet, management of medications, and awareness of symptoms, however, low blood sugar can be managed.