Hypoglycaemia

Overview

Hypoglycaemia most often affects people with diabetes who take insulin or certain tablets. It needs prompt treatment.

Symptoms

• Shakiness, sweating and hunger
• Fast heartbeat
• Anxiety or irritability
• Confusion and difficulty concentrating
• Blurred vision
• Drowsiness, seizures or unconsciousness if severe

Causes and risk factors

In diabetes, causes include too much insulin, missed meals, extra exercise and alcohol. Other causes include some medicines, hormone problems, liver disease and rare tumours.

Diagnosis

A finger-prick or blood test confirms low glucose. Further tests look for a cause in people without diabetes.

Treatment

Take fast-acting sugar, such as glucose tablets or juice, then a snack once recovered. Severe hypoglycaemia needs glucagon or intravenous glucose. Medicines may be adjusted to prevent repeat episodes.

When to see a doctor

See your doctor if you have frequent lows. Seek emergency care if someone is confused, having a seizure or unconscious.