Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Blood sugar drops below normal levels, causing fatigue, shakiness, and confusion.
Overview
Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar (glucose) falls below normal levels, typically under 70 mg/dL. Glucose is the brain's main fuel, so low levels cause symptoms ranging from shakiness and fatigue to confusion and loss of consciousness. Hypoglycemia is most common in people with diabetes (from medications), but "reactive hypoglycemia" can occur in non-diabetics after meals. Understanding and preventing blood sugar drops is key to managing this condition.
Common Age
Any age; more common in diabetics
Prevalence
Very common in diabetics on insulin; reactive hypoglycemia prevalence disputed
Duration
Episodes are brief if treated; underlying condition may be chronic
Common Symptoms
- Shakiness and trembling
- Sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
- Hunger
- Fatigue and weakness
- Irritability and mood changes
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Confusion and difficulty thinking
- Blurred vision
- Anxiety and nervousness
- Headache
- Pale skin
- Tingling around mouth
- Severe: seizures, loss of consciousness
Possible Causes
- Diabetes medications (insulin, sulfonylureas)
- Skipping meals or not eating enough
- Excessive exercise without eating
- Drinking alcohol, especially without food
- Reactive hypoglycemia (after high-carb meals)
- Insulin-producing tumors (rare)
- Adrenal or pituitary gland disorders
- Certain medications
- Severe illness or infection
- Post-bariatric surgery
Note: These are potential causes. A healthcare provider can help determine the specific cause in your case.
Quick Self-Care Tips
- 1Learn to recognize early symptoms
- 2Carry fast-acting glucose always
- 3Follow the "Rule of 15" for treatment
- 4Don't skip meals
- 5Eat balanced meals with protein
- 6Limit refined carbs and sugar
- 7Monitor blood sugar if diabetic
- 8Wear medical ID if frequent episodes
Disclaimer: These are general wellness suggestions, not medical treatment recommendations. They may help manage symptoms but should not replace professional medical care.
Detailed Treatment & Solutions
1IMMEDIATE TREATMENT (Rule of 15)
If blood sugar is low, consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbs (4 glucose tablets, 4 oz juice, regular soda). Wait 15 minutes and recheck. Repeat if still low. Follow with snack if next meal is more than an hour away.
2MEAL PLANNING
Eat regular meals and snacks. Include protein and fat with carbs to slow glucose release. Avoid large amounts of refined carbs alone. Don't skip meals, especially if taking diabetes medications.
3EXERCISE MANAGEMENT
For diabetics: check blood sugar before, during, and after exercise. Have carbs available. Adjust medication timing if needed. Eat snack before prolonged activity.
4REACTIVE HYPOGLYCEMIA
Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Limit refined carbohydrates and sugars. Include protein and fiber with each meal. Avoid eating carbs alone.
5MEDICATION ADJUSTMENT
Work with doctor to adjust diabetes medications if hypoglycemia is frequent. Don't adjust insulin on your own. Report episodes to your healthcare team.
6SEVERE HYPOGLYCEMIA
Glucagon injection or nasal spray for unconscious person (caregivers should be trained). Call emergency services. Don't give food/drink to unconscious person.
Important: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen. The solutions above are for educational purposes and may not be suitable for everyone.
Risk Factors
- Diabetes medications
- Irregular eating
- Excessive exercise
- Alcohol use
- Certain medical conditions
Prevention
- Regular meals
- Balanced nutrition
- Appropriate medication dosing
- Monitoring blood sugar
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
- Frequent hypoglycemic episodes
- Hypoglycemia without diabetes or clear cause
- Episodes are severe (confusion, loss of consciousness)
- Unable to recognize low blood sugar (hypoglycemia unawareness)
- Need help adjusting diabetes medications
Talk to a Healthcare Provider
If your symptoms are persistent, severe, or concerning, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
QWhat is reactive hypoglycemia?
Reactive hypoglycemia occurs in non-diabetics when blood sugar drops 2-5 hours after eating, especially after high-carb meals. The body releases too much insulin in response to the meal. Treatment involves eating smaller, balanced meals with protein, fat, and fiber, and avoiding refined carbohydrates on an empty stomach.
QIs hypoglycemia dangerous?
Mild hypoglycemia is uncomfortable but not dangerous if treated promptly. However, severe hypoglycemia can cause seizures, loss of consciousness, and be life-threatening. People who can't recognize symptoms (hypoglycemia unawareness) are at higher risk. Always treat low blood sugar immediately.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you have regarding a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Information last reviewed: January 2026
This page provides educational information only. It is not medical advice.