Hypoglycemia

Blood sugar or blood glucose, the reference is to the amount of glucose currently circulating in the body via the bloodstream. Glucose is found directly in many foods (i.e., fruits, vegetables, and grains) and as a component of other carbohydrates, such as in combination with galactose to make lactose, the disaccharide found in dairy products. The monitoring of blood glucose is an important component of many health conditions related to glucose management, such as hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes

Hypoglycemia is characterized by a state of low blood glucose (70 mg/dL or lower), while hyperglycemia is characterized by the opposite (240 mg/dL or higher). Acute to chronic hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia may be a result of a number of things and vary based on age, health status, and other factors.

Potential causes of hypoglycemia include:

Missing a meal

Improper use of medication

Exercising more than normal

Drinking alcohol

Common symptoms of hypoglycemia include:

Shaking

Sweating

Nervousness/anxiety

Irritability/confusion

Dizziness

Hunger

Hypoglycemia may be addressed acutely with:

Glucose tablets

Fruit juice or soda

Candy

Blood glucose monitoring

As directed by a provider