Hypoglycemia

Synonyms: Clash of insulin, low blood sugar

Hypoglycemia is a problem that occurs when the level of blood sugar (glucose) is very low.

When the level of blood sugar is less than 70 mg / dL, it is considered low. Blood sugar levels or below that this condition may cause damage.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause.

If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar when symptoms of low blood sugar. If your blood sugar is low (70 mg / dL), you need to treat immediately.

Eat something that has around 15 grams of carbohydrates. Eg

• 3 tablets glucose

• Half cup (120 ml) of fruit juice or regular soda

• 5 or 6 bullets

• 1 tablespoon of sugar dissolved in water or pure

• 1 tablespoon honey or syrup

Wait 15 minutes before eating anything else. Be careful not to overeat. This can cause high levels of blood sugar and weight gain.

Check your blood glucose again.

• If you do not feel better within 15 minutes and the glucose is still low (less than 70 mg / dL), eat something that has around 15 grams of carbs again.

• You may need to eat something containing carbohydrates and protein, if your blood sugar is in a safe range (greater than 70 mg / dL) and missing more than an hour for the next meal.

If procedures to increase the level of blood sugar do not work, call your doctor immediately.

People with acute hypoglycemia are treated with glucose injections or the hormone glucagon. Immediate treatment is needed to prevent serious complications or death.

If hypoglycemia is caused by an insulinoma (tumor that produces insulin), surgery to remove the tumor is the best treatment.

Prevention

If you are diabetic, follow medical recommendations about diet, medications and exercise.

Preventing the fall in the level of blood sugar is better than treating it. When you exercise, check your blood sugar level. Always have a snack to take insulin or other medication that lowers the level of blood sugar.

Ask your doctor or nurse if you need a snack before bedtime to avoid falling blood sugar during the night. Protein foods are best.

Do not drink alcohol without food. If you drink, have a drink or two at most.

The physician may recommend changing the supply so that the same amounts of sugar are ingested during the day. It may be recommended to small frequent meals containing complex carbohydrates, fiber and fats, and avoid simple sugars, alcohol and fruit juices.

Make meals at regular times. Eat foods extras when you exercise demics.

If you have a history of hypoglycemia, you always have a snack or drink with sugar. Eat snack once symptoms appear.