If you look around, there are so many people suffering from blood sugar problems. According to data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, 14.8% of adults aged 30 and over have diabetes (as of 2022). Diabetes is named because high blood glucose (blood sugar) is excreted in the urine. Hyperglycemia is very dangerous, but hypoglycemia is just as serious. This time, let's mainly learn about hypoglycemia.

 

Be cautious even in high-risk groups such as pre-diabetes... What are the symptoms of hypoglycemia?

 

Hypoglycemia should be cautious not only for diabetes patients but also for high-risk groups such as those in the pre-diabetic stage. When hypoglycemia occurs, it becomes difficult to effectively control blood sugar levels. Additionally, recurrent hypoglycemia increases the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, dementia, and in severe cases, death. For diabetes patients, preventing hypoglycemia is the most important, and they must be able to respond appropriately when hypoglycemia occurs.

When hypoglycemia occurs, the autonomic nervous system's function increases, leading to symptoms such as increased heart rate, hand tremors, anxiety, cold sweat, and hunger. Additionally, a lack of glucose in the central nervous system can cause weakness, fatigue, dizziness, and changes in consciousness. If hypoglycemia is suspected and blood glucose measurement is possible, check the blood sugar level with a meter. If the patient has difficulty measuring blood glucose, provide emergency treatment for hypoglycemia first, then measure the blood sugar.

 

What foods must you eat when hypoglycemia occurs?

 

When symptoms of hypoglycemia appear, you should consume 3 to 4 candies containing 15-20g of glucose, one tablespoon of sugar (15g) or honey (15mL), one yogurt (100mL), or drink juice or a soft drink (175mL). Foods high in fat, such as chocolate or ice cream, are not appropriate because their absorption is slower and blood sugar may not rise quickly. If the patient is unconscious, they should not be given food, and glucose should be administered via intravenous injection (according to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency). If blood sugar is below 70 mg/dL and the patient is conscious, consume 15-20g of glucose and rest for 15 minutes before measuring blood sugar again. If blood sugar has not returned to normal, repeat the glucose intake.

 

Why did hypoglycemia suddenly occur?

 

Exercising on an empty stomach early in the morning can cause hypoglycemia. Blood sugar levels are closely related to meals. Irregular eating habits, increased physical activity compared to usual, and excessive alcohol consumption all increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Inappropriate dosing, timing, and methods of diabetes medications also contribute. Particular caution is needed when administering drugs with a relatively high risk of hypoglycemia, such as insulin or sulfonylureas (source: Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency).

 

Regular meals and exercise are important... Diabetic patients should carry foods containing glucose.

To prevent hypoglycemia, it is important to check for risk factors and be cautious. Regularly monitor blood sugar levels, and maintain a routine of balanced meals and exercise. If you have diabetes, you must take medications correctly according to the prescription. Especially for diabetics, it is essential to be well aware of the symptoms, signs, and appropriate responses in case of hypoglycemia. If there is a high risk of hypoglycemia, it is advisable to always carry foods containing glucose. For those with diabetes, complacency is dangerous. Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach when meeting a loved one increases the risk of hypoglycemia.

 

 

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Exercising on an empty stomach early in the morning can cause hypoglycemia.

In the case of irregular eating habits,

In case of increased physical activity compared to usual,

Excessive drinking increases the risk of hypoglycemia.

Carelessness is truly a no-go.