If you have diabetes and take medications to lower your sugars and improve your a1c blood test results, there is a chance that your medications could reduce your blood sugar levels too much. When blood sugar levels drop below normal values and into a dangerous range, this is called hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia can have serious effects on the body and can even be life threatening. If you have diabetes it is important that you understand how to recognize the signs of hypoglycemia.
The signs of hypoglycemia are usually very easy to recognize. When blood sugar levels begin to drop below normal, a patient may initially begin to feel sick. They may complain of feeling sweaty and shaky. Some patients report feeling very anxious during this time. Others may not have any symptoms, which is particularly dangerous because sugar levels can continue to drop and more serious problems can occur. As blood sugar levels continue to drop, patients may experience weakness, trouble walking, visual changes, confusion, passing out and seizures.
If you begin to experience any of the above symptoms it is important that you check your sugar levels immediately. All patients with diabetes should have a blood glucose meter at home. Be sure to ask your doctor if you qualify for a Freestyle free glucometer so that you can check your sugars at home. Be sure to consult your physician to find out what value is too low for you. If your sugar level is too low, eat or drink something immediately to increase your blood sugar levels. Many patients choose orange juice to increase blood sugar quickly. Ask your doctor if you should keep injectable glucagon on hand to use for severe episodes of hypoglycemia. You should teach family members how to give this medication to you in the event that you are incapacitated.
Hypoglycemia is a serious complication of diabetes. It is essential that all diabetic patients are aware of these symptoms and what to do if blood sugar is too low.
