Hypoglycemia

If a person has diabetes mellitus, not only hyperglycemia but also hypoglycemia can occur. In this case, the blood glucose level drops below a certain value. Type 1 diabetics and insulin-dependent type 2 diabetics are particularly affected.

Hypoglycemia should be avoided at all costs, as it can cause unconsciousness and, in people with heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias and heart attacks. In severe cases it can also lead to disturbances in coordination, consciousness and behavior.

Possible causes of hypoglycemia:

• Not eating a meal after taking insulin
• Sports (during and after)
• Alcohol
• Too high a dose of pills that lower blood glucose levels
• Hypothyroidism

Affected individuals do not always notice directly that they are going into hypoglycemia. Warning signs include a pale face, trembling, racing heart, sweating, concentration problems and headaches. Immediate help is provided, for example, by glucose and sugary drinks.