Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia occurs when the blood sugar is too low (that is, less than 60 mg/dl).
A woman experiencing poor blood sugar control may begin to experience symptoms when the blood sugar is 100 mg/dl.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia
- Excessive sweating hunger, weakness
- Headache feeling faint or dizzy
- Pounding of the heart
- Vision problems
- Trembling/shakiness
- Feeling sleepy or confused
- Irritability/crankiness
- Numbness or tingling around the mouth
Causes
- Too much insulin
- Too little food
- Skipped meal or snack
- Delayed meal
- More than usual amount of exercise
What to do? Check blood sugars*:
- If below 50, take 15 gm of carbohydrates
- (i.e. 4-6 oz. of apple or grape juice) ½ cup = 4 oz.
- If between 50-70, 4-6 oz. apple or grape juice or eat meal or snack if it is time for it.
- If above 80, drink water and rest.
- Recheck the blood sugar level 15 minutes after each step above. Repeat the food if the level has not increased by 20 mg/dl.
- Follow with the next scheduled meal or snack.
- Make sure someone is present who knows how to use the glucagon kit in case you are unable to care for yourself.
*Always approve your individual treatment plan with your personal physician.
These are general guidelines and not intended to serve as individual treatment or diabetic management recommendations.