What Does Severe Hypoglycemia Feel Like and What to Do

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can range from mild to severe. While mild to moderate hypoglycemia can often be managed with quick fixes, severe hypoglycemia is a medical emergency. Understanding what it feels like, and knowing what to do, can be lifesaving. This article will explore the feelings associated with severe hypoglycemia and provide actionable steps to take in such a situation.

Understanding Hypoglycemia and its Severity

Before diving into the experience of severe hypoglycemia, it's crucial to grasp the basics of what causes it and how it's categorized. Hypoglycemia typically occurs when blood glucose levels drop below 70 mg/dL. It's common in people with diabetes, especially those taking insulin or certain oral medications.

Hypoglycemia is generally classified into the following categories:

• Mild Hypoglycemia: Blood sugar levels are low, but the person is still able to treat themselves.
• Moderate Hypoglycemia: Symptoms are more pronounced, but the individual can still self-treat with some difficulty.
• Severe Hypoglycemia: The individual requires assistance from another person due to confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, or other significant impairments.

It is severe hypoglycemia that this article will focus on, highlighting its dangers and necessary interventions.

What Does Severe Hypoglycemia Feel Like?

Experiencing severe hypoglycemia can be frightening both for the individual and bystanders. Symptoms can vary, but some common signs include:

1. Loss of Consciousness: This is perhaps the most alarming symptom. The person may become completely unresponsive.

2. Seizures: Low blood sugar can disrupt normal brain function, leading to seizures.

3. Severe Confusion or Disorientation: The person may appear extremely confused, unable to answer simple questions or recognize familiar faces.

4. Inability to Swallow or Take Oral Medication: This can make it impossible for the person to self-treat by eating or drinking something sweet.

5. Erratic Behavior: Marked changes in behavior, such as extreme agitation or aggression, can occur. Why Is My Morning Blood Sugar High 5 Factors And How To Manage Them

6. Unresponsiveness to Verbal or Physical Stimuli: The person might not respond to attempts to wake them up or get their attention.

   

7. Significant Weakness or Incoordination: The individual may be too weak to stand or coordinate their movements.

It's important to remember that symptoms of hypoglycemia can sometimes mimic other medical conditions, which is why it's crucial to be aware of the person's medical history (if known) and act quickly.

Differentiating Symptoms from Other Conditions

While the above symptoms are indicative of severe hypoglycemia, they could potentially point to other medical emergencies. Therefore, when assisting someone, consider these factors:

• Medical ID: Check for a medical ID bracelet or necklace indicating that the person has diabetes.
• Context: Consider the person's recent activities. Did they skip a meal? Take too much insulin? Engage in strenuous exercise?
• Immediate Actions: If you are unsure but suspect hypoglycemia, it's generally safer to treat for low blood sugar while awaiting medical assistance.

What to Do When Someone Experiences Severe Hypoglycemia

When confronted with someone experiencing severe hypoglycemia, quick action is paramount. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation:

   • First, ensure the immediate environment is safe.
   • Try to determine if the person has diabetes by checking for medical identification.

2. Do Not Attempt to Give Food or Drink:

   • If the person is unconscious or unable to swallow, do not try to force them to eat or drink. This could lead to choking.

3. Administer Glucagon (if Available):

   • If glucagon is available and you know how to use it, administer it immediately. Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood sugar levels.
   • Glucagon is typically injected into the thigh, arm, or buttocks.
   • Follow the instructions on the glucagon kit carefully.

4. Call for Emergency Medical Help:

   • Immediately call emergency services (911 in the US, 999 in the UK, 112 in Europe) or your local emergency number.
   • Provide as much detail as possible, including the person’s condition, any known medical history, and the actions you've taken.

5. Position the Person Safely:

   • If the person is having a seizure, protect them from injury by clearing the area of any sharp or hard objects.
   • Once the seizure stops, place the person in the recovery position (lying on their side) to prevent choking should they vomit.

6. Monitor and Wait for Help to Arrive:

   • Continuously monitor the person’s breathing and pulse until emergency medical personnel arrive.
   • Be prepared to provide additional information to the paramedics or other healthcare professionals.

Glucagon: A Lifesaving Treatment

Glucagon is a crucial medication designed to rapidly raise blood sugar levels in individuals with severe hypoglycemia. Here are some key points regarding glucagon:

• Availability: Glucagon is typically prescribed to individuals at risk of severe hypoglycemia, such as those with diabetes on insulin. It is available in various forms, including injectable and nasal sprays.
• How it Works: Glucagon works by stimulating the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream.
• Training: Family members, caregivers, and close contacts should be trained on how to administer glucagon. This training usually comes from a healthcare professional.
• Expiration: Glucagon has an expiration date. Always check the expiration date before use and replace it as needed.

Prevention of Severe Hypoglycemia

While knowing how to respond to severe hypoglycemia is crucial, preventing it in the first place is even better. Here are some preventive measures:

• Regular Blood Sugar Monitoring: People with diabetes should regularly monitor their blood sugar levels as directed by their healthcare provider.

• Consistent Meal Schedule: Avoid skipping meals or going for long periods without eating. Glycemic Index Vs Glycemic Load A Practical Guide For Diabetes Management

• Adjusting Medication Doses: Work closely with your healthcare provider to adjust medication dosages as needed, especially during periods of increased physical activity or illness.

• Carrying a Quick Source of Sugar: Always carry a quick-acting source of sugar, such as glucose tablets or juice, to treat mild hypoglycemia before it progresses to a severe state.

• Educating Family and Friends: Ensure that family members, friends, and coworkers know how to recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia and what to do in an emergency.

Understanding Blood Sugar Levels

Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is paramount for individuals with diabetes. Here’s a reference table:

Blood Sugar Level	Category	Action
Below 70 mg/dL	Hypoglycemia	Consume 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates, recheck blood sugar in 15 minutes.
70-99 mg/dL (Fasting)	Normal (Fasting)	Maintain healthy diet and exercise habits.
Less than 140 mg/dL (2 hours after meal)	Normal (Postprandial)	Continue to monitor and manage diet.
Above 125 mg/dL (Fasting)	Diabetes (Fasting)	Consult a healthcare provider for treatment and management plan.
Above 200 mg/dL (2 hours after meal)	Diabetes (Postprandial)	Seek guidance from a healthcare professional immediately.

Note: These ranges can vary; always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidelines.

Conclusion

Severe hypoglycemia is a serious condition that requires immediate attention. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to respond can be crucial in preventing serious complications. Education and preparedness are key components in managing and preventing severe hypoglycemia, ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals at risk. Always seek guidance from healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment plans. The swift action in treating low blood sugar can prevent devastating consequences. How The Glycemic Index Gi Affects Your Blood Sugar Control

By Shon E. Meek, M.D., Ph.D.