What are the Effects of Low Blood Sugar?

The effects of low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, usually include dizziness, blurred vision, and sweating. Some people may also begin to tremble and experience depression and anxiety. When low blood sugar is severe, it may cause fainting, seizures, and mental confusion. In most cases, the effects of low blood sugar can be quickly reversed if the person experiencing the symptoms is given something high in sugar to eat. If the person becomes too sick to eat or passes out as a result of low blood sugar, it may be necessary to administer injections of glucose as quickly as possible.

Low blood sugar can be the result of many different things. It is not uncommon for people either with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes to have hypoglycemia. People who frequently crash diet and lose weight very quickly might also have problems with low blood sugar. Additionally, it could be a side effect of kidney or liver disease. People who frequently experience the effects of low blood sugar should seek advice from their doctors to determine why it is happening.

Most people who are hypoglycemic try to eat something sugary to make themselves feel better when they are experiencing the effects of low blood sugar, but this may not be enough for everyone. Doctors sometimes recommend that people with low blood sugar use home glucose kits to quickly raise their blood sugar levels if a hypoglycemic episode is experienced. These kits typically contain glucose shots that may be quickly administered to bring dangerously low levels back up to normal. It is possible for a person to die if the blood sugar levels get too low. This possibility is rare for most people with hypoglycemia, but it is still important to get blood sugar levels up as quickly as possible before symptoms get worse.

People who have problems with low blood sugar may be able to help prevent the onset of symptoms by taking a few extra precautions. A healthy, balanced diet is usually one of the first things most doctors recommend for people with low blood sugar. Foods full of fiber, protein, and the necessary amounts of vitamins and minerals can help keep blood sugar levels normal. It may also be a good idea for a hypoglycemic person to check her blood sugar before each meal she eats to help her make the right food choices. The effects of low blood sugar may be warded off if a person makes an effort to eat several small meals throughout an entire day rather than just three meals at three set times.