Recognizing and Responding to Hypoglycemia
11/12/2024
Rebecca Thao, Aspirus Pharmacy Resident
November is Diabetes
Month, a time to focus on the nearly 38 million Americans living with diabetes,
according to the American Diabetes Association, and the challenges they face,
including hypoglycemia. This serious condition, characterized by dangerously
low blood sugar levels, can pose immediate health risks if left unaddressed.
Understanding the symptoms and knowing how to respond effectively is essential
for ensuring the safety and well-being of those at risk.
Hypoglycemia occurs
when blood sugar levels drop too low, potentially leading to various health
complications.
“Hypoglycemia can
happen for several reasons,” explains Rebecca Thao, a pharmacy resident at
Aspirus Health. “One common cause is that your body might have too much
insulin, particularly if you are on insulin therapy or taking certain oral
diabetes medication.” Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps
convert sugar into energy. Other contributing factors include excessive
exercise and skipping meals.
Early recognition of
hypoglycemia is vital. Common signs and symptoms to watch for include:
- Shakiness
- Hunger
- Fast heartbeat
- Dizziness
If you experience
any of these symptoms, Rebecca advises taking immediate action. “The first step
is to check your blood sugar with a glucose monitor if you have one,” she
states. If blood sugar levels are low, follow the "Rule of 15":
- Consume 15 grams of
fast-acting carbohydrates, such as:
- 4
ounces of regular soda (not diet)
- 4
ounces of orange juice
- 3
to 4 glucose tablets
- Wait 15 minutes to
allow your body to absorb the sugar.
- Recheck your blood
sugar. If it remains below 70 mg/dL, repeat the process.
Regular monitoring
of blood glucose levels is essential for many patients, especially those living
with type 1 diabetes, taking insulin, or certain oral medications. Fluctuations
can occur throughout the day due to various factors, and if levels drop below
the target range, immediate action is necessary.
“Always be aware of
your body’s signals and have a plan in place to respond to low blood sugar
episodes,” Rebecca advises. By recognizing the signs and knowing how to
respond, individuals can help safeguard their health throughout Diabetes Month
and beyond.
Aspirus providers,
dieticians, and diabetes educators work with patients of all ages and all types
of diabetes. We understand that managing diabetes can be challenging, and we
collaborate with you to manage your condition and prevent complications.
If you have diabetes
or pre-diabetes, talk to your provider about a referral to one of our Aspirus
Diabetes Education Centers. We can assist you with nutrition, exercise,
medications, blood glucose monitoring, insulin pump therapy, intensive insulin
management, avoiding complications, and problem-solving. Learn more at www.aspirus.org/diabetes-care.
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