Hypoglycemia Fatigue

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) occurs when blood glucose drops below normal levels, typically below 70 mg/dL. The brain relies almost exclusively on glucose for energy, so when levels drop, fatigue, weakness, and cognitive symptoms quickly develop. For people with diabetes, hypoglycemia usually results from too much insulin, missed meals, or unexpected exercise. Non-diabetic hypoglycemia is less common and can be either fasting (occurring when not eating) or reactive (occurring 2-4 hours after eating). Hypoglycemia causes sudden fatigue that differs from other causes - it comes on relatively quickly and improves within 15-20 minutes of eating fast-acting carbohydrates. Frequent hypoglycemia episodes, however, can contribute to persistent fatigue.

Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar drops too low: In Diabetes: - Too much insulin or diabetes medication - Skipped or delayed meals - Unexpected or increased physical activity - Alcohol consumption without food Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia: - Reactive: Oversecretion of insulin after eating (especially high-sugar meals) - Fasting: Insulin-producing tumors, liver disease, hormonal deficiencies - Medications: Some non-diabetes drugs can lower blood sugar - Post-gastric surgery: Dumping syndrome Why Fatigue Occurs: - Brain is deprived of its primary fuel - Stress hormones (adrenaline) released - Body's attempt to conserve energy - Frequent episodes create ongoing fatigue pattern