Most people without diabetes don’t think much about blood sugar. But even in healthy patients, blood sugar levels rise and fall throughout the day as your body processes food into energy. In normal ranges, this is a healthy body function; when these fluctuations occur outside of those ranges, it can cause serious complications – both for diabetics and not.
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, occurs when the level of glucose (blood sugar) in your blood is too low. This is most common in people with diabetes, but it can also occur in people without the condition due to a number of other causes. Whether you’re someone with diagnosed diabetes or not, understanding the signs of low blood sugar is crucial. At America’s Best Care Plus, we’re here to help guide you through these signs and discuss why managing blood sugar levels is important for your overall health.
What is Low Blood Sugar?
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, occurs when your blood glucose levels fall below the normal range. For people with diabetes, this means a blood sugar level less than 70 mg/dL; for people without diabetes, hypoglycemia is usually a blood sugar level lower than 55 mg/dL.
Hypoglycemia is common in patients with type 1 diabetes or those with type 2 diabetes who take insulin or other diabetic medications. In these patients, low blood sugar can be caused by:
- Taking too much insulin
- Certain diabetic medications
- Skipping meals or not eating enough carbohydrates
- Exercising more than usual without adjusting medication or food intake
Although rare, people without diabetes can also experience low blood sugar levels. In these cases, the most common causes include:
- Hormonal deficiencies
- Liver, heart, or kidney disease
- Certain medications
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Prolonged fasting or starvation
- Pregnancy
Glucose is your body’s main energy source, so a severe dip can affect widespread body functions. Interestingly, while much attention is given to high blood sugar, low blood sugar can be equally dangerous and requires awareness and swift action.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For
Recognizing the signs of hypoglycemia is vital for timely treatment. Here are some common symptoms:
- Shakiness or trembling
- Muscle weakness
- Blurred vision
- Sweating
- Hunger
- Headache
- Fast heartbeat
- Irritability or moodiness
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Pale skin
These symptoms can vary from person to person and might not always be obvious, especially in mild cases. However, if not treated promptly, symptoms can escalate to more severe consequences like seizures or unconsciousness.
Recognizing and managing low blood sugar is a critical component of maintaining good health, especially if you are prone to hypoglycemic episodes. At America’s Best Care Plus, we offer a variety of diabetic testing supplies and continuous glucose monitors that can help keep your glucose levels in check. By staying prepared and informed, you can safeguard against the risks of low blood sugar.
Don’t wait until you feel the symptoms of low blood sugar to take action. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about how our products can help you manage your blood sugar efficiently and effectively. Stay healthy, stay informed, and let us help you in maintaining your best health!