Symptomatic Hypoglycemia

Symptomatic hypoglycemia

An acute emergency where blood glucose drops and must be corrected swiftly.

Common causes of hypoglycemia

Administering a correct dose of insulin with a change in routine, more insulin than necessary, a correct dose without sufficient food intake, or a correct dose during an acute illness.

Respiratory signs of hypoglycemia

Normal to shallow or rapid respirations.

Skin signs of hypoglycemia

Pale, moist (clammy) skin and diaphoresis (sweating).

Neurological signs of hypoglycemia

Dizziness, headache, altered mental status (aggressive, confused, lethargic, or unusual behavior), anxious or combative behavior, rapid changes in mental status, seizure, fainting, or coma, and weakness on one side of the body (may mimic stroke).

Cardiovascular signs of hypoglycemia

Rapid pulse and normal to low blood pressure.

Speed of hypoglycemia onset

Hypoglycemia develops more quickly than hyperglycemia.

Risk of untreated hypoglycemia

Unless the patient takes glucose, permanent brain damage can occur.