Abnormally low concentration of plasma glucose; may result in loss of consciousness – hypoglycaemic coma.
A low concentration of glucose in the blood.
A deficiency of glucose in the blood the normal range being 3-5—5-5 mmol/l. It most commonly occurs in diabetic patients for example, after an excessive dose of insulin and heavy exercise, particularly with inadequate or delayed meals. It may also occur in non-diabetic people, however: for example, in very cold situations or after periods of starvation. Hypoglycaemia is normally indicated by characteristic warning signs and symptoms, particularly if the blood glucose concentration is falling rapidly. These include anxiety, tremor, sweating, breathlessness, raised pulse rate, blurred vision and reduced concentration, leading — in severe cases — to unconsciousness. Symptoms may be relieved by taking some sugar, some sweet biscuits or a sweetened drink. In emergencies, such as when the patient is comatose, an intramuscular injection of glucagon or intravenous glucose should be given. Early treatment is vital, since prolonged hypoglycaemia, by starving the brain cells of glucose, may lead to irreversible brain damage.
Low blood-sugar (glucose) levels caused by insufficient fuel reaching the brain; symptoms include shaking, hunger and sweating.
Hypoglycemia is a condition characterized by an abnormally low level of glucose in the blood. It mostly affects individuals with Type 1 diabetes mellitus, where the pancreas fails to produce sufficient insulin, leading to elevated glucose levels. To lower the glucose level, insulin is administered. However, an excessive dose of insulin can cause the blood glucose to drop to dangerously low levels. Additionally, hypoglycemia can occur if a person with diabetes skips a meal or engages in strenuous exercise.
Less frequently, hypoglycemia can also develop in individuals with Type 2 diabetes mellitus, where the body cells exhibit resistance to insulin’s effects. In rare cases, the condition may be triggered by excessive alcohol consumption or due to the presence of an insulin-producing tumor in the pancreas.
Signs of hypoglycemia encompass sweating, hunger, dizziness, trembling, headache, palpitations, confusion, and occasionally double vision. People experiencing hypoglycemia may display irrational and aggressive behavior. In severe cases, it can lead to a coma. Additionally, hypoglycemia can be responsible for seizures and jittery behavior observed in newborn babies.
At the initial indication of a hypoglycemic episode, the individual should promptly consume a sugary food or drink. However, if the person has lost consciousness, it is crucial to seek emergency medical assistance. In such cases, the patient will need an injection of glucose solution or the hormone glucagon to address the situation effectively.