Hypoglycemia is a health condition generally defined by its below normal blood sugar levels and disconnect of glucose transference to the brain. Over the years, doctors and diabetics have held some contention as to what precisely defines a hypoglycemic condition because non-diabetics are just as likely to suffer from it.
Not to be confused with hyperglycemia, which is linked to blood sugar spike symptoms like dehydration and nerve damage, hypoglycemia occurs when there is a disconnect between the brain and your blood glucose level. In rare cases, the condition may result in mild dysphoria (a form of psychotic irritability and depression), seizures or permanent brain damage.
Here are a few ways to tell if you have experienced symptoms of hypoglycemia, according to MayoClinic.com:
-
Low blood sugar (glucose) levels
-
Abnormal behavior
-
Loss of consciousness
-
Heart palpitations
-
Tremor
-
Anxiety
-
Sweating
-
Hunger
Diabetics are not the only ones subject to experiencing hypoglycemia. Since glucose is the primary source of energy for everyone, hypoglycemia can occur in anyone suffering from a decrease in blood sugar. The condition is commonly sparked by a lack of food or excess insulin. It is important to remember that hypoglycemia is not a disease, but rather an indicator of a more serious health condition. All the same, hypoglycemia can be treated with foods high in sugar or medication. If you experience hypoglycemia, you may want to schedule an appointment with your doctor to see if there are any underlying causes.
Hypoglycemia and Diabetes
Hypoglycemia is commonly associated with diabetes because patients with the disease may experience dips in blood sugar. In a diabetic, hypoglycemia can occur when there's too much insulin in the body. Since high and low blood glucose levels tend to feel the same in diabetics, hypoglycemia cannot be diagnosed until a glucose meter test can be taken. With the help of a glucose meter, you can accurately calculate your blood sugar level. You may have hypoglycemia if your blood sugar is below 40 mg/dl. If you're reading is above 110 mg/dl, wait for 10 minutes to see if your blood sugar rapidly drops. If it does, it could indicate hypoglycemia. However, if it doesn't, resting for a few minutes should bring help return your blood glucose level back to normal.
Hypoglycemia for Non-diabetics
Non-diabetics should not be alarmed when experiencing hypoglycemia, as the condition is not necessarily a sign of diabetes. However, due to the unpredictability of hypoglycemia and the loose definitions that are afforded to it, it is always best to track your glucose levels.
To avoid blood sugar spike symptoms or those related to a decrease in blood sugar, diabetics should keep their blood glucose levels stable by maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and medication. Testing is the best way to determine whether or not you're suffering from this condition. To find out if you meet the requirements for free blood sugar testing strips, call toll-free at 1-866-686-0610. Liberty Medical will check with your doctor and Medicare to determine if you qualify.