Hypoglycemia: When Your Blood Sugar Drops Low

What is hypoglycemia?
Hypoglycemia, also known as low blood sugar, occurs when your blood sugar levels drop too low. Blood sugar is the body's main source of energy. When your blood sugar levels drop, your body can't function properly.
What causes hypoglycemia?
There are many causes of hypoglycemia, including:

Diabetes: People with diabetes are at risk for hypoglycemia because their bodies don't make enough insulin or don't use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose get into cells for energy.
Certain medications: Some medications, such as insulin and sulfonylureas, can lower blood sugar levels too much.
Alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with the liver's ability to produce glucose.
Eating disorders: People with eating disorders may not eat enough food to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Other medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as liver disease and kidney disease, can affect blood sugar levels.

What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?
The symptoms of hypoglycemia can vary from person to person, but they often include:

Shaking
Sweating
Hunger
Nausea
Vomiting
Dizziness
Confusion
Blurred vision
Headache
Fast heart rate
Pale skin
Cold and clammy skin

How is hypoglycemia treated?
Hypoglycemia is treated by raising blood sugar levels. This can be done by eating or drinking something sugary, such as:

Candy
Fruit juice
Soda
Glucose tablets

If you have severe hypoglycemia, you may need to be given glucagon. Glucagon is a hormone that helps the liver release glucose into the bloodstream.
How can hypoglycemia be prevented?
There are a few things you can do to prevent hypoglycemia, including:

Eat regular meals and snacks: Don't skip meals or wait too long to eat.
Limit your alcohol intake: Alcohol can interfere with the liver's ability to produce glucose.
Talk to your doctor about your medications: If you are taking medications that can lower blood sugar levels, talk to your doctor about how to manage your risk of hypoglycemia.
Wear a medical ID bracelet: If you have diabetes or another medical condition that puts you at risk for hypoglycemia, wear a medical ID bracelet so that others know how to help you if you experience symptoms.

When to see a doctor
See your doctor if you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia can be a serious condition if it is not treated.