Coping with Hypoglycemia

What is hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop below normal—less than 70 mg/dL.

Important to know:
This condition can cause unpleasant symptoms and may be dangerous if not treated promptly. However, with the right knowledge, it is manageable.

How to recognize hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia can present differently in each person.

Common symptoms include:

• Sudden hunger
• Weakness or fatigue
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sweating
• Tremors (hands or body)
• Dizziness or headache
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes or irritability
• Blurred vision
• Anxiety or fear

In severe cases, symptoms may include:

• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures

Steps for managing hypoglycemia

Step 1: Recognition and testing

Check your blood sugar level. If it is below 70 mg/dL, follow the steps below:

Step 2: Quick treatment

Try one of the following:

• Half a glass of water with 3 teaspoons of sugar
• 3 teaspoons of honey or 2 dates
• 3–4 glucose tablets or candies (e.g., toffee or jelly candies)

Step 3: Wait and retest

1. Wait 15 minutes
2. Recheck blood sugar
3. If still below 70 mg/dL, repeat Step 2 and then Step 3 as needed

Step 4: Stabilization

(Only needed if the event occurs before bedtime or during the night)

After blood sugar has risen above 70 mg/dL:

Eat a light snack containing complex carbohydrates (e.g., a slice of bread or a cracker). If awake and alert, this step is usually not needed—just repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the episode resolves

Try to identify the cause of the hypoglycemic episode and discuss it with your doctor

In case of emergency

If someone with hypoglycemia has lost consciousness:

Do not give food or drink by mouth

Use a glucagon injection if available

Call for immediate medical assistance

How to prevent hypoglycemia

Sugar monitoring:

Check blood sugar more frequently on days with physical activity or routine changes

Use of Freestyle Libre 2:

For patients on short or long-acting insulin for more than 6 months

Treatment adjustment:

Follow your doctor’s guidance and adjust medications according to your activity level

Glucagon kit:

Keep a glucagon injection kit at home if needed

Helpful tips

• Always carry sugar packets, a sweet snack, glucose tablets, or dates with you
• Share information about symptoms and treatment with family and friends
• Talk to your doctor about any significant hypoglycemic events

Proper diabetes management allows for a full and healthy life.
For more information, speak with the pharmacists at your local Leumit pharmacy.