Hypoglycemia
Alternative names:
insulin shock; low blood sugar
Treatment:
For the immediate reaction, a snack containing sugar will raise the blood-glucose level, and an improvement in symptoms should be realized.
Infants of diabetic mothers that develop low blood sugars are treated with IV glucose solutions to maintain the blood sugar at normal levels. The glucose is slowly tapered over the next 24-48 hours while the infant begins to regulate its blood sugar at normal levels.
If blood-sugar levels are so low in a person that unconsciousness or inability to swallow develops, emergency medical treatment is needed. This is called insulin shock. An injection of glucose solution or the hormone glucagon will be given immediately.
For long-term management, dietary modifications may be necessary to deliver glucose to the body more evenly throughout the day and thereby preventing further hypoglycemic attacks. Small, frequent meals with complex carbohydrates, fiber, and fat; and the avoidance of simple sugars, alcohol, and fruit juice are dietary modifications that may be recommended. Eat meals at regular intervals, and balance extra exercise with extra food.
If hypoglycemia is caused by an insulinoma (insulin secreting tumor), surgery to remove the tumor is indicated.
Expectations (prognosis):
Severe hypoglycemia can often be avoided by knowing the early warning signs of hypoglycemia and using appropriate self-treatment. Untreated hypoglycemia can progress to unconsciousness and prolonged lack of glucose to the brain may cause permanent impairment.
Complications:
In the infant - seizure
- permanent neurological damage
Calling your health care provider:
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if early signs of hypoglycemia do not improve after a snack containing sugar, or if a diabetic (or other person known to experience hypoglycemia) becomes unresponsive or unarousable.
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