Many people think low blood sugar level (hypoglycemia) only happens in diabetic people. However, this is sometimes not true. Non-diabetic people can have risks of hypoglycemia due to reasons such as certain medications, infections, or severe diseases affecting their organs. This article will highlight what causes low blood sugar without diabetes and symptoms so that you know and take better care of your body.
Table of Contents
ToggleWhat is Hypoglycemia:
Our body relies on glucose for energy, when blood sugar levels drop below the normal range of 70 mg/dL, it signals trouble in your body. Now, the effects of this can vary from patient to patient and in some cases, can be life-threatening, so it is better to consult a health professional when having these symptoms.
Types of Hypoglycemia:
This condition is mainly associated with two main types. However, there is another called dumping syndrome.
1. Reactive Hypoglycemia:
Reactive hypoglycemia is a reaction after you have a meal rich in carbohydrates. The reason is associated with a surge in insulin response, which drops the sugar level in the blood.
2. Non-reactive Hypoglycemia:
Unlike reactive, non-reactive hypoglycemia occurs due to medications, illness, or hormonal imbalance.
3. Dumping syndrome:
This condition can happen if you have had surgeries, dysfunctioning your stomach’s regular function. It can result from gastric bypass or GERD surgery. It causes abrupt variations in blood sugar after consuming carbohydrates.
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia:
Mild symptoms of hypoglycemia include shaking, sweating, confusion, dizziness, pale skin, feeling hungry and nauseous, and weakness. Still left untreated, it will turn more severe and affect your cognitive ability such as;
- Trouble focusing
- Feeling dizzy
- Light-headed
- Getting confused
- Issues with deciding or solving problems
- Slurred speech or difficulty talking
- Blurred sight or tunnel vision
Ignoring these symptoms will lead to seizures, coma, and unconsciousness.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
If you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia and do not have diabetes, it is crucial to seek medical attention. This condition can be a sign of an underlying health issue that requires treatment.
Why It Happens — Causes of Low Blood Sugar Level:
These are the causes to keep in mind when dealing with hypoglycemia;
1. Medication-Induced Hypoglycemia:
Certain drugs might cause a significant decline in blood glucose levels. For example, beta-blockers used to treat high blood pressure and some antibiotics, such as quinolones, may lead to hypoglycemia as a side effect.
2. Hormonal Imbalances:
Hormones like cortisol and adrenaline play a crucial role in blood sugar regulation. Conditions that affect the adrenal glands, such as Addison’s disease, can lead to insufficient production of these hormones, resulting in hypoglycemia.
3. Eating Disorders:
Individuals with eating disorders, particularly anorexia or bulimia, are at risk of developing hypoglycemia. Inadequate food intake and inconsistent eating patterns can cause blood sugar levels to drop dangerously low.
4. Severe Infections:
Any infection can cause the body to use up glucose rapidly or affect the liver’s ability to produce glucose, leading to hypoglycemia. It is more common in severe infections, such as sepsis.
5. Kidney or Liver Diseases:
The liver and kidneys play a significant role in glucose production and regulation. Diseases affecting these organs, such as chronic kidney disease or liver cirrhosis, create a hindrance in glucose metabolism, leading to low blood sugar levels.
6. Endocrine Disorders:
Endocrine disorders, such as Addison’s disease, hypothyroidism, and insulinoma (rare tumour in the pancreas) can cause excessive production of insulin, disrupting the regular hormonal balance necessary for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. These conditions can lead to hypoglycemia if not effectively treated.
7. Prolonged Fasting or Malnutrition:
Skipping meals, prolonged fasting, or insufficient nutrition can consume the body’s glucose stores, resulting in hypoglycemia. It is especially a risk for individuals who are underweight or malnourished.
8. Over-exercising:
Excessive physical activity can lead to low blood sugar, especially if the body’s glucose stores are not restored through enough nutrition. It is a common issue for athletes who engage in intense exercises without consuming enough carbohydrates.
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Diagnosing Non-Diabetic Hypoglycemia:
Correct and on-time Diagnosis of hypoglycemia is crucial for its treatment.
1. Tests and Procedures:
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure glucose levels and other tests to determine the cause. A glucose tolerance test is conducted to observe how your body handles sugar.
2. Differentiating from Other Conditions:
It is crucial to differentiate hypoglycemia from other conditions with similar symptoms, such as anxiety disorders or cardiac issues. A thorough medical evaluation where your blood glucose levels are measured is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
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Managing and Preventing Hypoglycemia:
Little adjustments in your lifestyle and food habits can help you manage this condition. Here is what you can do;
1. Lifestyle Adjustments:
One of the most effective ways to manage hypoglycemia is through lifestyle changes. Eating small, regular meals packed with complex carbs, protein, and healthy fats will help control blood sugar levels.
2. Medical Interventions:
Depending on the cause, medical interventions may be necessary. These can include medications to address underlying conditions, such as hormone therapy for endocrine disorders.
3. Exercise Moderation:
If exercise is the cause of your hypoglycemia, it may be necessary to adjust your workout routine. This could involve reducing the intensity or duration of your exercise sessions and ensuring you eat nutritious rich before and after exercising. If necessary, you could consult a dietitian for a personalised diet plan.
4. Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels:
Even if you don’t have diabetes, monitoring your blood sugar levels can help manage hypoglycemia. Portable glucose meters can provide quick and accurate readings, helping you take timely action if your levels drop too low.
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Conclusion:
Low blood sugar without diabetes is a complex condition with various causes. From medication side effects to lifestyle factors like diet and exercise, many elements can contribute to hypoglycemia. Understanding the symptoms and seeking appropriate medical care is essential to manage and prevent this condition effectively so that you can enjoy a better quality of life.
FAQs:
1. Why would blood sugar drop if not diabetic?
Severe liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis, kidney, heart diseases, infections and certain medications can cause hypoglycemia.
2. What to eat when blood sugar is low?
It can be treated with the 15-15 rule, consume 15 grams of carbohydrates and then wait for 15 minutes to check. For hypoglycemia between 55-69 mg/dL fruit juice, honey, hard candies, and glucose tablets are recommended.
3. Can dehydration cause low blood sugar?
Dehydration can cause low blood sugar levels in severely malnourished people as dehydration is less water and hypoglycemia is not enough food. So it is linked together.
4. Can stress cause blood sugar to drop?
Recurring episodes of stress can be the reason for serious changes in blood sugar levels. It becomes even more difficult for patients with diabetes to manage, eventually increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
Fakiha is an experienced writer at ConsidraCare with an optimistic interest in life. She has a proactive approach to improving health and wellness for seniors. She offers well-researched and thoughtful information to help individuals make informed healthcare decisions for themselves and their loved ones.