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Hypoglycemia

Definition of hypoglycemia#

Hypoglycemia (lower blood glucose level than normal) may be associated with clinical manifestations when plasma glucose usually drops <70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L). Manifestations of hypoglycemia, as well as at which level of blood glucose signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia appear, may differ between patients.

Causes of hypoglycemia#

  • too much insulin
  • excessive alcohol consumption
  • excessive strenuous exercise
  • missed or delayed meals
  • inadequate carbohydrate intake
  • medication error
  • other illness

Signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia#

Initial signs and symptoms:#

  • sweating
  • pale skin
  • trembling
  • fatigue
  • tachycardia
  • anxiety
  • nausea
  • hunger
  • irritability
  • tingling and numbness of the tongue and lips

Worsening signs and symptoms:#

  • dizziness
  • confusion
  • difficulty speaking
  • headache
  • inability to concentrate
  • weakness
  • blurred vision
  • seizure
  • loss of consciousness

Related Pages#

References/Websites#