Standard for Low Blood Sugar

Written by Lin Xiang Dong
Endocrinology
Updated on September 29, 2024
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Our diagnostic criteria for hypoglycemia are often based on the "Whipple's triad," which is determined first by the presence of symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as palpitations, dizziness, pale complexion, cold sweats, confusion, mental abnormalities, and so on. Second, after the symptoms appear, we measure blood glucose; in non-diabetic patients, blood glucose below 2.8 mmol/L, and in diabetic patients, blood glucose below 3.9 mmol/L, then it can be judged as possibly hypoglycemia. Third, after measuring blood glucose, we quickly provide sugars, administer oral sugar water, biscuits, etc., and his symptoms of hypoglycemia quickly alleviate. Based on these three points, we can diagnose hypoglycemia.

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Written by Lin Xiang Dong
Endocrinology
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Standard for Low Blood Sugar

Our diagnostic criteria for hypoglycemia are often based on the "Whipple's triad," which is determined first by the presence of symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as palpitations, dizziness, pale complexion, cold sweats, confusion, mental abnormalities, and so on. Second, after the symptoms appear, we measure blood glucose; in non-diabetic patients, blood glucose below 2.8 mmol/L, and in diabetic patients, blood glucose below 3.9 mmol/L, then it can be judged as possibly hypoglycemia. Third, after measuring blood glucose, we quickly provide sugars, administer oral sugar water, biscuits, etc., and his symptoms of hypoglycemia quickly alleviate. Based on these three points, we can diagnose hypoglycemia.

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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.

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Written by Lin Xiang Dong
Endocrinology
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Is hypoglycemia dangerous?

For hypoglycemia that has already occurred, as long as we can accurately and promptly identify the onset of hypoglycemia and provide appropriate treatment, the hypoglycemia can be alleviated and cured. Occasional hypoglycemia is not very dangerous after being handled, but if hypoglycemia occurs frequently and does not receive timely rescue, it can cause significant damage to the human body, especially the central nervous system, causing damage to brain cells. If hypoglycemia lasts too long, it can even endanger life, leading to coma, death, etc.

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Written by Li Hui Zhi
Endocrinology
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What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia, in fact, is diagnosed in healthy individuals when blood glucose levels are less than or equal to 2.8 mmol/L, and in diabetic patients when levels are less than or equal to 3.9 mmol/L. Common symptoms of mild hypoglycemia typically involve sympathetic nervous system activation, such as dizziness, palpitations, cold sweats, trembling hands, and a feeling of hunger. It is recommended that food be consumed promptly when these symptoms occur. If hypoglycemia is not immediately addressed, severe outcomes can occur, including altered mental status, coma, and unresponsiveness. In some cases, hypoglycemia may trigger seizures or abnormal cerebral vascular accidents, such as stroke or cardiac ischemia, leading to a heart attack. Therefore, preventing hypoglycemia is of utmost importance.

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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.