Low blood sugar levels

Low Blood Sugar Levels - Introduction

Low level of sugar in blood, medically known as hypoglycemia, always causes certain symptoms and the easiest way to confirm the drop in level of sugar in blood is by taking blood samples and measuring the level of glucose in the blood. There are many conditions which cause hypoglycemia and by treating them one can successfully maintain the optimal level of sugar in the blood. Furthermore, for all people who are suffering from occasional drop of sugar in blood and in case this is not caused by some medical condition there are several tips which may help in maintaining the optimal level of sugar. Hypoglycemia typically leads to low level of energy and frequent fatigue bouts.

Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar Levels

The entire body is affected by insufficient amount of sugar in blood. This particularly affects the brain since glucose is the main source of energy not only for the brain but also for all the organs in the body. There are many symptoms and signs of low blood sugar level and some of them are hunger, increased sweating, anxiety and nervousness, weakness, dizziness, headache, and paleness. In severe cases of hypoglycemia patients may experience blurred vision, tremor, numbness of certain organs such as the tongue or lips, seizures, confusion and the heart rate may be fast or irregular. The intensity of all the previously mentioned symptoms increases in extreme cases of hypoglycemia. If neglected a person may even lose consciousness and sweep into a coma.

Causes of Low Blood Sugar Levels

Hypoglycemia is related either to insufficient intake of carbohydrates or occurs due to certain medical conditions.

Illnesses which may cause hypoglycemia include malfunctioning of the liver and kidneys and improper functioning of the adrenal glands. This condition is also possible in patients suffering from cancer who undergo frequent sessions of chemotherapy. Hypoglycemia is also possible in diabetic patients in case they have taken too much insulin.

Apart from many diseases low blood sugar levels may be caused by inadequate intake of food or skipping meals. In some cases even consumption of excess alcohol may lead to hypoglycemia.

Treatment for Low Blood Sugar Levels

Hypoglycemia caused by certain illnesses can be successfully avoided if the underlying illness is kept under control.

On the other hand, people suffering from occasional hypoglycemia caused by inappropriate diet must be aware of the importance of proper and well-balanced diet. They need to consume optimal amount of carbohydrates (particularly complex carbohydrates), have regular meals and take suitable amount of food rich in fibers. These people are also recommended to stop consuming beverages rich in caffeine since they may cause a sudden hypoglycemia.