BEWARE OF LOW SUGAR LEVELS AND HYPOGLYCEMIA!

Individuals with diabetes require medication to regulate their blood sugar (blood glucose) to a healthy level. Nevertheless, there are instances when blood sugar levels can dip excessively, leading to a condition known as hypoglycemia. Given the potentially severe outcomes associated with hypoglycemia, it is crucial to understand how to prevent or rectify it.

HOW LOW IS TOO LOW?

As a general guideline, when blood sugar falls below 4 mmol/L, it is classified as too low, indicating the presence of hypoglycemia. However, it’s essential to consult your healthcare team to determine your specific threshold as it may vary.

WHAT CAUSES BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS TO DROP TOO LOW?

Hypoglycemia can be induced by certain diabetes medications, notably insulin and specific drugs that stimulate increased insulin production by the pancreas. This is most likely to happen when there is a dosing mistake, particularly with insulin, or when medication adherence is not followed as prescribed.

Additionally, situations that can trigger a decrease in blood sugar levels encompass skipping meals or reducing food intake, engaging in more intense or extended physical activities than usual, or consuming alcohol, especially without concurrent eating.

HOW CAN YOU TELL IF YOUR BLOOD SUGAR IS TOO LOW?

Hypoglycemia can cause a number of symptoms:

  • Shaking, palpitations, sweating
  • Anxiety
  • Difficulty concentrating, confusion, mood swings
  • Weakness
  • Vision problems, difficulty speaking
  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness, headaches
  • Hunger
  • Nausea
  • Tingling, pallor

Not all of these symptoms will necessarily be present, and they may vary from one episode to the next.
Some people may have trouble recognizing the symptoms of hypoglycemia, especially if they have had diabetes for a number of years. It is important that their friends and family recognize the symptoms, as their assistance may be required if the person’s blood sugar level drops too low without them realizing it.

In some cases, hypoglycemia can result in loss of consciousness or coma, in which case it is a medical emergency and someone must call 911 immediately.

If you are feeling these symptoms or think you may be having a hypoglycemic episode, measure your blood sugar with a glucose meter. If the reading is lower than 4 mmol/L (or the threshold determined by your physician), it is important to act fast.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOUR BLOOD SUGAR IS TOO LOW?

If your blood sugar level drops below 4 mmol/L (or the threshold advised by your healthcare provider), you should promptly consume a rapidly absorbed sugar source, ideally glucose tablets available at the pharmacy. Alternatively, you can drink ¾ cup (175 ml) of fruit juice or non-diet soda, 15 ml (1 tablespoon) of white sugar (dissolved in a small amount of water), honey, or maple syrup.

Wait for approximately 15 minutes, and then measure your blood sugar again. If it remains too low, consume another sugar source and recheck it after another 15 minutes.

Once your blood sugar returns to an acceptable level, it’s essential to maintain it at that level. If it’s time for a meal, proceed to eat as you typically would. If a meal is not scheduled for at least an hour, have a snack containing carbohydrates and proteins, such as a slice of bread with cheese.

If you suspect that your blood sugar is too low but lack your glucose meter to verify, consuming a sugar source as a precaution is advisable. It’s safer to temporarily boost your blood sugar a bit higher than to risk the potential complications of hypoglycemia, like dizziness-induced falls.

HOW CAN YOU REDUCE THE RISK OF HYPOGLYCEMIA?

Ensuring proper medication adherence, taking the correct dose at the scheduled times, maintaining regular meal and snack times, and adhering to your dietary plan if applicable are essential aspects of diabetes management.

While alcohol consumption is not prohibited, it’s crucial to observe certain precautions. For instance, avoid consuming alcohol on an empty stomach or before, during, or right after physical activity.

Engaging in physical activity is beneficial for overall health, including for individuals with diabetes. However, it’s important to be prepared by carrying an appropriate snack suitable for the intensity and duration of your exercise or making adjustments to your insulin dosage as necessary.

Diabetics should always have their glucose meter readily available along with a snack or a source of fast-acting sugars.

WHAT IS THE PHARMACIST’S ROLE IN THE PREVENTION OF HYPOGLYCEMIA?

Whenever a new medication is prescribed, the pharmacist conducts a thorough check to verify that it won’t interfere with the individual’s diabetes medication or disrupt their blood glucose levels. Additionally, they provide guidance to individuals with diabetes regarding over-the-counter medications and natural health products.

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