A continuous glucose monitor CGM is an option for some people, particularly those with hypoglycemia unawareness. A CGM has a tiny wire that's inserted under the skin that can send blood glucose readings to a receiver. If blood sugar levels are dropping too low, some models of CGM will alert you with an alarm. Some insulin pumps are now integrated with CGM s and can shut off insulin delivery when blood sugar levels are dropping too quickly to help prevent hypoglycemia.
Be sure to always have a fast-acting carbohydrate with you, such as juice or glucose tablets so that you can treat a falling blood sugar level before it dips dangerously low. For recurring episodes of hypoglycemia, eating frequent small meals throughout the day is a stopgap measure to help prevent your blood sugar levels from getting too low. However, this approach isn't advised as a long-term strategy.
Work with your doctor to identify and treat the cause of hypoglycemia. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.
This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Hypoglycemia is a condition in which your blood sugar glucose level is lower than normal. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Continuous glucose monitor Open pop-up dialog box Close. Continuous glucose monitor A continuous glucose monitor CGM is a device that measures your blood sugar every few minutes using a sensor inserted under the skin.
Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Jameson JL, et al. In: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. The McGraw-Hill Companies; Accessed Jan. Low blood glucose hypoglycemia. Unexplained hypoglycemia in a nondiabetic. Mayo Clinic; Cryer PE. In both cases, eating can help stabilize your blood sugar.
On the other hand, ongoing problems with nondiabetic hypoglycemia not related to food intake might indicate a decrease in insulin production. This may be related to issues with your:. Everyone reacts differently to fluctuations in their blood sugar levels. Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include :. Reactive hypoglycemia occurs within a few hours after a meal.
An overproduction of insulin causes reactive hypoglycemia. Causes of nonreactive, or fasting, hypoglycemia include:. Although rare, a tumor of the pancreas can cause the body to make too much insulin or an insulin-like substance, resulting in hypoglycemia. Hormone deficiencies can also cause hypoglycemia because hormones control blood sugar levels. Dumping syndrome also occurs in patients who have had gastric bypass surgery.
In late dumping syndrome, the body releases excess insulin in response to carbohydrate-rich meals. That can result in hypoglycemia and related symptoms.
If you have diabetes, there are several reasons you may experience hypoglycemia. Causes of hypoglycemia include:. Causes of hypoglycemia without diabetes include:. Hypoglycemia without diabetes can occur in both children and adults. Your doctor will need to identify the cause of your hypoglycemia to determine the right long-term therapy for you.
Glucose will help boost your blood sugar levels in the short term. One way to get additional glucose is to consume 15 grams of carbohydrates. Drinking fruit juice is an easy way to get extra glucose into your bloodstream.
These sources of glucose often briefly correct hypoglycemia, but then another drop in blood sugar often follows. Eating foods that are high in complex carbohydrates , such as pasta and whole grains, will sustain blood sugar levels after a period of hypoglycemia.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia can become so severe that they interfere with daily routines and activities. If you have severe hypoglycemia, you might need to carry glucose tablets or injectable glucose glucagon. Your doctor may ask you to take a fasting test. This test can last as long as 72 hours. Another test is a mixed-meal tolerance test. This test is for people who experience hypoglycemia after eating.
The results are usually available within a day or two. Keep track of your symptoms with a symptom diary. This information will help your doctor make a diagnosis. Your body needs glucose to function. Without the right level of glucose, your body will struggle to perform its normal functions. Some tests might include not eating fasting and watching for symptoms.
Other tests might involve eating a meal that could cause symptoms of low blood sugar several hours later. The results of these types of tests can help diagnose the cause. You may also need tests to look for or rule out health problems that could be affecting your blood sugar levels. You can treat a sudden episode of low blood sugar by eating or drinking something with sugar in it. Some examples of "quick-sugar foods" are fruit juice, soda, milk, raisins, and hard candy.
You may also take glucose tablets. This is usually all that's needed to get your blood sugar level back up in the short term. If your hypoglycemia is caused by a health condition, you may need treatment for that condition. There also may be steps you can take to avoid low blood sugar. For example, talk to your doctor about whether changes in your diet, medicines, or exercise habits might help. If mild or moderate hypoglycemia isn't treated right away, it can turn into severe hypoglycemia.
People with severe hypoglycemia usually pass out. If you pass out, someone should call right away. If you have a health problem that tends to cause low blood sugar, it's a good idea to teach your family, friends, and coworkers about what symptoms to watch for and what to do. You may also want to wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace. Kim MD - Endocrinology. Author: Healthwise Staff. Medical Review: E. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.
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