Understanding Hypoglycemia: Causes and Management By the Diabetologists at Hande Hospital, Shenoy Nagar, Chennai
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a critical condition that affects individuals with diabetes, particularly those on insulin or certain oral hypoglycemic agents. It occurs when blood glucose levels drop below 70 mg/dL, leading to a range of symptoms that can escalate into a medical emergency if left untreated.
At Hande Hospital, Shenoy Nagar, Chennai, which has been serving the people for over 35 years, our expert diabetologists, Dr. Kavya Somesh MD (Diabetologist), Prof. Kannan MD, and Dr. Radha Ashok Kumar MD, emphasize the importance of early detection, prevention, and management of hypoglycemia to ensure optimal diabetes care.
Causes of Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia can occur due to various reasons, including:
1. Medication-Related Causes
• Excessive insulin use or overdose of oral diabetes medications (such as sulfonylureas).
• Delaying or skipping meals after taking diabetes medications.
• Overcorrection of high blood sugar with excessive insulin administration.
2. Dietary Factors
• Inadequate carbohydrate intake or missing meals.
• Unplanned fasting or crash dieting.
• Excessive alcohol consumption without food.
3. Increased Physical Activity
• Exercising without proper carbohydrate intake or adjusting insulin doses.
• Prolonged physical activity without glucose monitoring.
4. Underlying Medical Conditions
• Kidney disease, affecting insulin clearance.
• Liver disorders, reducing glycogen storage and glucose release.
• Hormonal imbalances, impacting blood sugar regulation.
5. Other Contributing Factors
• Gastrointestinal disorders affecting glucose absorption.
• Postprandial hypoglycemia (excess insulin response after meals).
• Stress, infections, or illness, leading to erratic glucose fluctuations.
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
Recognizing early warning signs is crucial in preventing severe complications. Symptoms are categorized as:
• Mild Symptoms:
• Sweating
• Shakiness
• Hunger
• Palpitations
• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Moderate Symptoms:
• Blurred vision
• Weakness
• Confusion
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty concentrating
• Severe Symptoms (Medical Emergency):
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness
• Coma
Management of Hypoglycemia
Managing hypoglycemia effectively involves immediate treatment, long-term prevention, and lifestyle modifications.
1. Immediate Treatment (15-15 Rule)
If blood sugar is below 70 mg/dL, follow these steps:
• Consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates, such as:
• 3 teaspoons of sugar/honey
• ½ cup of fruit juice
• Glucose tablets as per dosage
• Recheck blood sugar after 15 minutes.
• If still low, repeat the process until normal levels are achieved.
• If unconscious, seek emergency medical help immediately.
2. Preventive Strategies
• Regular blood sugar monitoring, especially before meals, exercise, or bedtime.
• Eating balanced meals with carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.
• Adjusting insulin or medication doses as per medical advice.
• Avoiding excessive alcohol intake and always pairing alcohol with food.
• Carrying glucose tablets or sugar-rich snacks for emergencies.
3. Lifestyle Modifications
• Diabetes-friendly diet planning with professional guidance.
• Safe exercise routines, ensuring a pre-workout snack if necessary.
• Education of caregivers and family members on recognizing and treating hypoglycemia.
• Regular medical check-ups at Hande Hospital, Shenoy Nagar, for medication adjustments and overall diabetes management.
Why Choose Hande Hospital for Diabetes Care?
At Hande Hospital, Shenoy Nagar, Chennai, we have been providing comprehensive diabetes care for over 35 years. Our renowned diabetologists—Dr. Kavya Somesh MD (Diabetologist), Prof. Kannan MD, and Dr. Radha Ashok Kumar, MD— offer:
• Personalized diabetes treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
• Advanced blood glucose monitoring and insulin management techniques.
• Expert dietary and lifestyle counseling for better diabetes control.
• Emergency care for severe hypoglycemia.
• Specialized diabetic foot care, endocrinology services, and lifestyle management programs.
Conclusion
Hypoglycemia is a preventable and manageable condition with timely intervention and proactive management. Regular glucose monitoring, dietary awareness, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in maintaining stable blood sugar levels. At Hande Hospital, Shenoy Nagar, Chennai, our experienced diabetologists are committed to providing the highest standard of diabetes care to help our patients lead healthier, safer lives.
For expert diabetes management, visit Hande Hospital today. Call 9841011390 for an appointment and visit www.handehospital.org.
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