Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, plays a central role in managing the body’s blood sugar levels. Its primary function involves facilitating the uptake of glucose from the bloodstream into cells, where it is used for energy or stored for later use. A precise balance of insulin is important; too much can cause blood sugar levels to drop significantly, leading to a potentially dangerous condition known as hypoglycemia. This occurs because excess insulin causes cells to absorb too much glucose while also signaling the liver to release less glucose.
Recognizing the Signs of Low Blood Sugar
When blood sugar levels fall too low, the body presents various signs. Early indications include shakiness, sweating, and a fast heartbeat. Individuals might also experience hunger, dizziness, or lightheadedness. As blood sugar continues to drop, cognitive symptoms may appear, such as confusion, irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, or blurred vision. These symptoms arise because the brain requires a continuous supply of glucose to function properly.
Factors Contributing to Excessive Insulin
Several circumstances can lead to excessive insulin and low blood sugar. Accidental errors, such as misreading an insulin dose or taking a double dose, are common contributors. Not consuming enough food, or delaying a meal after taking insulin, can also cause blood sugar to drop. Increased physical activity without adjusting insulin or carbohydrate intake can deplete glucose stores faster.
Other factors include incorrect injection techniques or choosing an injection site that leads to faster insulin absorption. Changes in insulin sensitivity, perhaps due to weight loss or certain health conditions, might make a previously appropriate dose too high. Additionally, interactions with other medications or alcohol consumption can influence how insulin affects blood sugar, increasing hypoglycemia risk. In rare instances, conditions like insulinoma, a tumor in the pancreas that produces excess insulin, can also lead to low blood sugar.
Immediate Steps to Address Low Blood Sugar
Prompt action is needed when low blood sugar is suspected or confirmed. For mild to moderate low blood sugar, the “Rule of 15” is a common approach. This involves consuming 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets, a small glass of fruit juice, or regular soda. After consuming carbohydrates, wait 15 minutes and recheck blood sugar levels.
If blood sugar remains below 70 mg/dL, repeat the 15-gram carbohydrate intake and 15-minute waiting period until levels return to a safe range. Once blood sugar has stabilized, consuming a small meal or snack containing both carbohydrates and protein can help prevent another drop.
In severe cases, where an individual becomes unconscious or is unable to swallow, emergency medical help should be sought immediately. In such situations, administering a glucagon injection, if available and properly administered, is the most effective treatment. Glucagon works by signaling the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream, rapidly raising blood sugar.
Potential Severe Outcomes
Untreated severe low blood sugar can lead to serious health consequences. The brain is particularly vulnerable to glucose deprivation, and a prolonged lack of glucose can result in significant neurological effects. Untreated severe hypoglycemia may lead to seizures, as the brain’s electrical activity becomes disrupted. Individuals may also lose consciousness, entering a state referred to as a diabetic coma.
In prolonged cases, severe hypoglycemia can cause permanent brain damage. This damage can range from impaired memory and thinking to widespread neurological deficits. Additionally, severe low blood sugar can trigger cardiac arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats. In severe, unaddressed instances, hypoglycemia can result in death.
Strategies for Prevention
Preventing low blood sugar involves careful management and proactive habits. Precise measurement and administration of insulin doses help avoid accidental overdose. Maintaining consistent meal times and carbohydrate intake helps align food consumption with insulin action.
Regular blood sugar monitoring, especially before and after physical activity or during illness, allows for timely adjustments. Individuals should learn how to adjust their insulin for exercise or changes in their diet to prevent unexpected drops. Always carrying fast-acting carbohydrates is a practical measure for immediate treatment if symptoms arise.
Educating family members, friends, and co-workers about the signs of low blood sugar and basic first aid steps can be invaluable during an emergency. Regular check-ups with healthcare providers help review insulin dosages, refine management plans, and provide ongoing education.