Prognosis
Slight hypoglycaemia in itself does not pose a great danger. However, there is a risk that the body gets used to low blood sugar levels and the perception of hypoglycaemia no longer functions. On the other hand, if recurrent severe hypoglycaemia is not treated, it can cause damage to the brain (for example, dementia).
In the worst case, death occurs, usually as a result of impaired consciousness, which can lead to traffic accidents or falls. Otherwise, the prognosis depends on the underlying disease. “Hypoglycaemia” refers either to a low blood sugar level with values below 40mg/dl or a value below 45mg/dl with hypoglycaemic symptoms (neurological, psychiatric, vegetative) and termination of the symptoms by giving sugar (glucose).
Regarding the cause, hypoglycaemia is divided into three forms: Although there are interindividually different symptoms of hypoglycaemia, they can generally be divided into two forms: Autonomic symptoms include ravenous hunger, restlessness, sweating, trembling and palpitations. Central nervous symptoms affect the brain and initially manifest themselves as headaches, bad mood, confusion or reduced ability to concentrate. In addition, there may be automatic symptoms such as grimacing, seizures and, in the case of very severe hypoglycaemia, hypoglycaemic shock.
Hypoglycaemia is first diagnosed on the basis of the blood sugar level. The determination of further laboratory parameters as well as imaging techniques complement the diagnostic procedure. The therapy consists of eliminating the triggering cause.
Symptomatically, hypoglycaemia is treated by glucose administration, which is administered orally (also in the form of sugar-containing beverages) or intravenously, depending on the severity of the hypoglycaemia. Alternatively, the hormone glucagon can be injected to increase blood sugar levels. Prognosis and prevention depend on the underlying disease.
- Reactive Hypoglycemia
- Fasting hypoglycaemia and
- Exogenous hypoglycemia.
- Autonomous (vegetative) and
- Central nervous symptoms.
further interesting information from this area of nutrition: An overview of all already published topics in this field can be found under Internal Medicine A-Z
- Hypoglycemia Symtoms
- Hypoglycemia Cause
- Hypoglycemia therapy
- Nutrition
- Iron Deficiency
- Nutrition therapy
- Diabetes mellitus
