Hypoglycemia

Overview

Hypoglycemia is a clinical syndrome caused by plasma glucose falling below normal levels, usually under 2.8 mmol/L in adults. It is often caused by excess glucose-lowering medication or insufficient food intake and can cause palpitations, sweating, and impaired consciousness, becoming life-threatening in severe cases.

Symptoms

• Palpitations
• Sweating
• Hand tremor
• Hunger
• Dizziness

Treatment

Mild cases are treated with immediate oral sugary food or drink; severe cases or impaired consciousness require intravenous glucose or a glucagon injection, along with finding and correcting the cause.

Dietary advice

Eat regularly to avoid prolonged fasting, choose low-glycemic-index staple foods, and carry candy for emergencies.