Hypoglycemic shock is a reaction to dangerously low levels of blood sugar in the body. It can be caused by a number of factors and is easy to treat in the early stages, but can become challenging to manage if it is advanced. People at risk for hypoglycemic shock are often encouraged to monitor their blood sugar levels and to be aware of the early signs and symptoms so they can take steps to address it.
Low blood sugar can be the result of having too much insulin in the blood, a release of glucose into the blood that is too low, or rapid use of glucose that results in a decline in blood glucose levels. People with low blood sugar often experience neurological symptoms because their brains are not getting enough glucose. This can include dizziness, a drunken feeling, confusion, and double vision. People can also feel antsy or restless, and experience symptoms like fatigue, shaking, sweating, and numbness. Hypoglycemic shock can progress to a coma.
The immediate treatment is an administration of carbohydrates to raise blood sugar. Hard candy and glucose tablets are two easy methods for raising blood sugar. If the patient cannot take carbohydrates by mouth, an injection of glucagon can be administered to elevate levels of glucose in the blood. It is important to avoid feeding the patient too much to prevent hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, the opposite problem.
People with diabetes are at increased risk of hypoglycemia. Even well-managed diabetes can occasionally be marked with spates of low blood sugar, especially if someone doesn't time insulin doses right, forgets to eat after exercising to compensate for increased glucose usage, or fails to eat scheduled meals on time. Kidney disease and alcoholism can also be linked with hypoglycemic shock, as can fasting, whether intentionally or accidentally.
Patients with diabetes typically carry supplies for management of low or high blood sugar and are familiar with administering treatments to themselves. They may also alert friends and family so that in the event they are unable to manage a blood sugar problem on their own, people will know what to do. It is important to follow directions given by a diabetic very carefully. Some people carry cards or wear bracelets providing information about their condition and what to do in an emergency, and these resources should be used to confirm that a treatment for hypoglycemic shock is appropriate.
