12 Symptoms of Hypoglycemia You Should Recognize
Glucose is our body’s main source of energy. It fuels our cells, brain, and muscles. However, if it’s lacking, the body reacts immediately. Do you suddenly feel tired, irritable, or sweaty for no apparent reason? These could be symptoms of hypoglycemia, a drop in blood sugar levels below 0.7 g/L (instead of 70 mg/dL, which is the standard unit used in France).
If hypoglycemia is mild, it may go unnoticed or be quickly corrected by consuming sugar. However, if the condition is severe, it can lead to dangerous complications, including loss of consciousness. Here are 12 signs that should worry you.
Twelve signs you
shouldn’t ignore Sudden and excessive sweating
Do you sweat even when it’s not hot? Hypoglycemia causes the release of adrenaline, which stimulates sweating. This often occurs before meals or in the evening, especially in people with diabetes.
What to do:
Eat something sweet quickly, such as a sugar cube, a glass of fruit juice, or applesauce.
Irritability and nervousness: Do
you suddenly feel irritable for no reason? Hypoglycemia causes a release of cortisol and adrenaline, resulting in mood swings and unusual irritability.
What to do:
Eat a carbohydrate-rich snack to stabilize your blood sugar levels.
Sudden, intense hunger:
When the brain lacks glucose, it sends urgent hunger signals. You immediately crave something, even if you’ve just eaten a meal.
What to do:
Choose foods with a moderate glycemic index, such as fruit or whole grains, to avoid a sharp drop in blood sugar levels.
Nightmares and restless sleep