What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?

Written by Lin Xiang Dong
Endocrinology
Updated on September 25, 2024
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The symptoms of hypoglycemia primarily manifest as signs of sympathetic nervous excitement and lack of oxygen in brain cells. Sympathetic nervous excitement can cause feelings of hunger, pale complexion, palpitations, dizziness, and trembling limbs. Meanwhile, the lack of oxygen in brain cells primarily presents as disturbances in neurological functions. The most common symptoms include inability to concentrate, slow speech and thought processes, drowsiness, abnormal behavior, and in severe cases, it can even lead to coma.

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Written by Lin Xiang Dong
Endocrinology
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What to do about hypoglycemia?

After a hypoglycemic episode, we need to handle it quickly. Usually, based on symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as dizziness, palpitations, cold sweats, pale complexion, and trembling hands, we can preliminarily judge the likelihood of a hypoglycemic attack. Then, use a rapid glucose meter to measure fingertip blood sugar levels. For non-diabetic patients, a blood sugar level below 2.8 mmol/L and for diabetic patients, a level below 3.9 mmol/L can be indicative. Next, we quickly provide sugar, offering oral sugar water, sugary drinks, or sugar-containing fruits, cookies, bread, etc. After these treatments, the symptoms of hypoglycemia can be quickly alleviated.

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Written by Lin Xiang Dong
Endocrinology
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How to treat hypoglycemia?

First, we need to accurately identify what hypoglycemia is. We often judge the occurrence of hypoglycemia based on symptoms, such as common symptoms including palpitations, dizziness, pale complexion, general weakness, trembling limbs, sweating, etc. When these symptoms appear, we should immediately use a rapid glucose meter to measure the fingertip blood sugar. If the blood sugar is below 2.8, then the diagnosis of hypoglycemia is confirmed. We immediately provide sugary drinks or other forms of energy substances, and the symptoms of low blood sugar can be greatly relieved.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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How to Treat Hypoglycemia

If the patient is experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, cold sweats, and feelings of hunger, but is mentally clear, it is suggested to promptly eat foods like candy or chocolate that can rapidly increase blood sugar levels. However, if the patient's hypoglycemia isn’t fully corrected and leads to unconsciousness, then it is critical to immediately call emergency services (dial 120). Upon their arrival, a micro blood sugar test should be conducted. Secondly, an injection of 50% glucose can be administered intravenously to correct the hypoglycemia. Thus, preventing hypoglycemia is very important.

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Written by Li Lang Bo
Endocrinology
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Can people with hypoglycemia eat beef?

Whether or not patients with hypoglycemia can eat beef really depends on the specific situation. Hypoglycemia varies in severity from mild, moderate, to severe. If you're just experiencing slight low blood sugar with some hunger and mild sweating, without any mental or physical impairments, then eating some beef shouldn't be a problem and it can indeed help raise your blood sugar. However, if you are experiencing moderate or severe hypoglycemia, characterized by heavy sweating, dizziness, and especially changes in consciousness, then it is not recommended to eat beef because its digestion and absorption are slow. In such cases, it is advised to quickly drink sugary water, and if necessary, administer sugar water intravenously to swiftly increase the blood sugar levels and alleviate symptoms of hypoglycemia. Since beef is a protein, it digests slowly and therefore causes a slower rise in blood sugar.

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Written by Lin Xiang Dong
Endocrinology
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How to regulate hypoglycemia

If hypoglycemia occurs repeatedly, it is necessary to go to the hospital for an examination to rule out some diseases that may cause hypoglycemia. If no apparent diseases are found after the examination, self-regulation can be considered. The methods for self-regulation include the following: Firstly, pay attention to a reasonable diet, eat regularly, balance meat and vegetables, and develop good eating habits without excessive dieting. Secondly, persist in exercising to strengthen the body, enhance physical fitness, improve immunity, and reduce the occurrence of hypoglycemia. Lastly, develop good living habits, ensure adequate sleep, avoid staying up late, avoid excessive fatigue, and balance work and rest.