DEAR DR. GOTT: It seems like everyone talks about diabetes and high blood sugar, but I recently found out I suffer from the opposite. What can you tell me about hypoglycemia?
DEAR READER: Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, is not a disease, but rather a symptom. It is most commonly seen in diabetics who do not have their sugar levels under proper control. In non-diabetics it is the result of an underlying condition.
Possible underlying causes include certain medications, tumors, alcoholism, anorexia, hepatitis, kidney disorders and endocrine deficiencies.
Hypoglycemia can be fatal if symptoms are ignored. Signs can include confusion, abnormal behavior, visual disturbances, tremor, anxiety, hunger, sweating, heart palpitations, seizures and loss of consciousness that typically occur between meals or on an empty stomach.
When symptoms occur following a meal, it can be the result of the body producing too much insulin. This is usually seen in those who have had gastric bypass surgery. It is important to note that these symptoms can be the result of other conditions, too, so it is important to seek prompt medical attention, especially if onset is new.
Treatment is twofold. First, blood sugar must be brought back into normal range. Then the underlying cause must be treated.
For diabetics, carefully managing blood sugar levels and medication use is vital.
In non-diabetics, small, frequent meals throughout the day can help keep blood sugars steady, but this isn’t recommended for long-term treatment, so testing to determine the cause is necessary.
Readers who are interested in learning more can order my Health Report “Hypoglycemia” by sending a self-addressed, stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 U.S. check or money order to Dr. Peter Gott, P.O. Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title, or print an order form from my website’s direct link: www.AskDrGottMD.com/order_form.pdf.
