These 5 Things Happen in Hypoglycemia

Diabetics in particular can quickly slip into hypoglycemia. What happens to the body when it has hypoglycemia, you can find out here.

If the blood sugar level is too low, hypoglycemia may occur. The value is below 3.3 mmol/l (60 mg/dl), but the transitions between the limits are fluid. Hypoglycaemia often occurs due to medication that lowers blood sugar levels. But other factors can also play a role – for example, a postponed meal or unplanned physical exertion. Diabetics in particular need to control their blood sugar levels in order to be able to take countermeasures in time.

No worries with slight fluctuations

Anyone with diabetes should pay close attention to possible signs of hypoglycaemia. But even those who do not suffer from diabetes can be affected – so it is good to be able to assign the typical symptoms to hypoglycaemia. The following applies: Slight fluctuations are completely normal and those who have only low blood sugar need not worry about the possible consequences.

This is what happens when you have low blood sugar

The following 5 signs indicate hypoglycaemia:

1. You are breaking out in a sweat

Cold sweat is usually perceived as very unpleasant. In the case of hypoglycaemia, it occurs mainly on the forehead, while those affected often suffer from dizziness and palpitations.

2. You wander around restlessly

Relaxed lying around is practically impossible with hypoglycaemia. The body needs energy, so it forces us to be restless. This can lead to real nervousness and eventually to feelings of anxiety.

3. Your head is pounding

Headaches can have many causes and are therefore often regarded as a non-specific symptom. Diabetics suffer from hypoglycaemia, but are particularly prone to it, and headaches can thus usually be quickly recognised as signs of hypoglycaemia.

4. You have an uncontrollable hunger

Cravings are a logical consequence of hypoglycaemia. After all, this is how the brain sounds the alarm and demands immediate sugar intake. Usually, we then go straight for chocolate, chips, etc. – they supply us with energy quickly, but only for a short time. Healthy snacks such as nuts are more suitable.

5. You are confused

In severe hypoglycaemia, the body begins to go crazy. Concentration disorders can occur, but also confusion. For example, one could lose one’s orientation in an actually familiar place.

What to do in case of hypoglycemia?

To counteract hypoglycaemia, we should eat something that provides us with fast energy. Instead of sweets, however, dextrose or sweetened lemonade (none with sweetener, please) are more suitable. Severe hypoglycaemia, which occurs particularly in diabetics, can lead to unconsciousness. In this case the hormone glucagon should be injected. If this is not possible, the emergency doctor should be called!