Defining Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is another name for blood sugar low. It is a common occurrence among individuals, and even though several symptoms are noticeable, the case is not confirmed most of the time. An endocrinologist is needed to check the presence of real hypoglycemia when diabetes treatment is not available. Hypoglycemia is usually present among people who are either very young or very old, but it is not common to also occur among teenagers, bodybuilders and adults. As a whole, hypoglycemia is described as having a serum glucose level lower than 70 mg/dL. You can have diabetes testing to confirm the presence.

Key Features of Blood Sugar Low

Hypoglycemia is diagnosed through the presence of 3 main features or the Whipple’s triad. The triad includes symptoms consistent with hypoglycemia, relief of symptoms after the level of plasma glucose is raised and having low plasma glucose concentration. The initial symptoms of hypoglycemia usually happen once serum glucose levels drop lower than 60 mg/dL. If levels drop lower than 50 mg/dL, brain function may be hindered.

The body regulates the glucose level, which is the main source of energy for muscles, brain and other vital cells, through the actions of various hormones. The hormones involve chemicals that raise blood sugar and insulin. Both glucagon and insulin are made in the pancreas. Insulin works by helping glucose absorption from the blood, having it stored in the liver or transported to other body tissues.

Treating the Problem

Glucose monitor or professional diabetes testing is present for those who need to have their blood sugar levels checked. The fingertip or forearm may be pricked to acquire a drop of blood. There is a special strip of paper put into the glucose meter or glucometer, which will analyze the blood. The meter will provide a numeric reading that relates to the current blood glucose level.

If the individual is awake, provide a cup of orange juice, water with table sugar or candy. If the person is confused because of hypoglycemia, their condition should improve after 10 minutes. Taking too much insulin can also lead to the problem, so determine if the person experiences altered state of consciousness due to hypoglycemia.

Maintaining Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

If your current blood sugar is dropping very low, take diabetes testing. You can consume a tablespoon of jelly or sugar, 4 ounces of fruit juice, 5 to 6 pieces of hard candy and 5 to 6 ounces of regular soda. Glucose tablets are also present without needing a prescription. You can treat blood sugar low immediately by alerting your friends and family about the possibility and having yourself checked regularly.

Learn how to balance physical activity so that you avoid blood sugar low. If you’re still breaking in from a long vacation, take some time to get back into training to avoid further complications. Increase the intensity and duration over time.

What To Do During Blood Sugar Low is a post from: Guide to Blood Sugar Levels