Hypoglycemia

• What is the blood glucose level that defines hypoglycemia?

  Blood glucose <4.0 mmol/L
• What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?

  Autonomic or neuroglycopenic symptoms
• How do symptoms of hypoglycemia respond to treatment?

  Symptoms improve after carbohydrate intake
• What are the classifications of hypoglycemia severity?

  1. Mild to Moderate Hypoglycemia

  • Autonomic symptoms: tremors, sweating, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, hunger, etc.
  • Neuroglycopenic symptoms: dizziness, headache, blurred vision, confusion, etc.

  1. Severe Hypoglycemia (Medical Emergency)

  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness/coma
• What are some autonomic symptoms of mild to moderate hypoglycemia?

  Tremors, sweating, rapid heartbeat
• What are some neuroglycopenic symptoms of mild to moderate hypoglycemia?

  Dizziness, faintness, headache
• What is a common group at risk for hypoglycemia?

  Type 1 Diabetes patients
• Which diabetes medications can increase the risk of hypoglycemia?

  Insulin and sulfonylureas
• What are some causes of hypoglycemia?

  Too much insulin or skipping meals
• What is the 15-15 Rule for treating hypoglycemia?

  1. Consume 15g of fast-acting carbs:

  • 4 glucose tablets
  • 3 teaspoons of sugar/honey
  • ½ cup of juice or soda

  1. Wait 15 minutes & recheck blood glucose
  2. Repeat if still <4.0 mmol/L
  3. Eat a balanced meal/snack once stable
• What should be done after stabilizing blood glucose levels in hypoglycemia?

  Eat a balanced meal/snack
• What are some prevention strategies for hypoglycemia?

  • Regular glucose monitoring
  • Consistent meals
  • Medication adjustments
  • Patient education