Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar
What is low blood sugar?
Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, is a condition that occurs when the body’s blood sugar (glucose) level falls too low. Low blood sugar can be a result of not eating enough food or taking too much insulin or other diabetes medications.
When not managed properly, severe hypoglycemia can lead to loss of consciousness, coma, or even death.
The symptoms of low blood sugar
Low blood sugar symptoms can be hard to notice. But it is important to know the signs so you can get help right away. And another thing is the symptoms may differ from person to person. Nevertheless, some of the most common signs of low blood sugar are:
1. Constant hunger
Low blood sugar often causes intense and sudden hunger. If you find yourself eating far more than normal but still feeling hungry even after a meal, it may be an indication of low blood sugar levels.
2. Sweating
Cold sweats and clammy skin are common signs of hypoglycemia due to the body’s sudden drop in glucose levels. This type of sweating may be localized to the face, head, and neck area, depending on individual circumstances.
3. Feeling anxious or jittery
When your blood glucose drops, you may feel agitated and jittery, or antsy. Other symptoms include feeling shaky, irritable, and restless.
4. Shakiness or trembling
Shaky hands or limbs are a typical early sign of low blood sugar levels. If you experience any trembling or shakiness, it’s important to take a look at your blood sugar level and make sure it is within the safe range (below 70 mg/dL).
5. Weakness and fatigue
Weakness and fatigue are common symptoms of low blood sugar.
When your body doesn’t have enough glucose to fuel your cells, you may start to feel weak and tired, as if you don’t have the energy or motivation to do things that used to come easily.
6. Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
Low blood glucose levels can cause a person to become unstable on their feet, making them feel as if they’re about to faint.
7. Headache
Another symptom of low blood sugar is a headache, which can range from mild to severe. You may experience these symptoms after eating a meal that contains carbohydrates, such as bread and pasta.
8. Confusion
If you feel disoriented and have difficulty concentrating, it could mean that your brain is not receiving enough glucose to function properly.
9. Blurry vision
Low blood sugar can cause blurred vision. The good news is that this symptom can go away once your blood sugar levels are brought back up to normal.
10. Fast heartbeat
When there isn’t enough glucose in the bloodstream to provide fuel for the heart, it causes an increase in heart rate as an attempt by the body to stabilize its supply of oxygenated blood.
The bottom line
The symptoms of low blood sugar include dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, difficulty speaking, and feeling shaky. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.