Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose)

Low blood glucose, or hypoglycemia, is one of the most common problems associated with insulin treatment. In general, hypoglycemia is defined as a blood glucose level below 70 mg/dl (if your meter tests whole blood) or 80 mg/dl or lower (if, like most new meters, it tests plasma), or below 90 mg/dl if you have symptoms. Be sure to ask your healthcare team what would be considered a low blood glucose requiring treatment for you.

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Hypoglycemia is usually unpleasant, with the most common symptoms being shakiness and sweatiness and having one's heart pound. The most common reasons for hypoglycemia are too much insulin, too little food, or too much activity. Another cause is drinking alcoholic beverages. Most hypoglycemia, if quickly and appropriately treated, it is more of an inconvenience than a cause for alarm.

However, severe hypoglycemia can cause mental confusion, antagonistic behaviors, unconsciousness, and seizures. The biggest danger is not the condition itself but what may happen as a result: a motor vehicle accident caused by passing out at the wheel or swerving into oncoming traffic, or a tumble down the stairs, for example. In rare cases, seizures can result in brain damage.

To avoid problems with hypoglycemia:

• Recognize the symptoms, which are specific to each individual and may change over time. If you have symptoms, test immediately if possible to see if your blood glucose is low.
• Understand the interaction between food intake, treatment, and physical activity so you can anticipate when hypoglycemia is a risk.
• Always carry carbohydrates for treatment. Don't overdo it: The most common error is to overtreat low blood glucose.
• Check blood glucose levels again in 15 minutes, and repeat treatment if symptoms persist or blood glucose levels have not risen to your target level or above.
• Check blood glucose levels before driving if you think you may be low--and stop the car immediately if you're already underway. Treat immediately with the appropriate amount of fast-acting carbohydrate. Check blood glucose levels again in 15 minutes and do not start driving again until you're no longer hypoglycemic.