12 Indicators That Your Blood Sugar Is Too Low

Have you ever felt a sudden and unsettling wave of dizziness or an inexplicable hunger that strikes without warning?

Or maybe you’ve experienced perspiration, even when the room temperature is not high? Although these may appear as unrelated events, they could actually be indications of a more serious issue: low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia.

This frequently disregarded condition can affect anyone, not just individuals with diabetes, and can greatly influence your daily activities. In fact, your body might be sending you subtle—but important—signals that your blood sugar levels are dropping dangerously low.

It is essential to comprehend these signs, as they can guide you in taking the appropriate actions before the situation worsens. These are 12 important signs that your blood sugar levels may be dropping too low, and it’s crucial to be aware of them. 

Every cell in your body needs energy to work at its best, and the primary source of that energy is glucose, which is also called blood sugar. Glucose plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including digestion, brain activity, heart function, and maintaining healthy skin and vision.

Throughout the day, your blood sugar levels naturally vary. Nevertheless, when your blood sugar level falls below 70 mg/dl, you are diagnosed with hypoglycemia. It’s crucial to be aware of the symptoms of low blood sugar in order to avoid potential complications. Here are 12 common signs that may suggest your blood sugar levels are too low. 

Unanticipated perspiration.

Have you ever experienced excessive sweating without any apparent cause, such as physical exertion or high temperatures? If you experience excessive sweating before meals or at unexpected times, it may indicate that your blood sugar levels are low.

According to the University of Michigan Health, hypoglycemia can lead to excessive sweating, especially in individuals with diabetes. However, anyone can experience this, as a surge of adrenaline occurs when blood sugar levels decrease. In addition to diabetes, some individuals may also encounter night sweats due to low blood sugar levels. 

Irritability is a sign of stress.

We’ve all experienced the sensation of being “hangry” at some point—when our hunger levels make us feel unusually irritable. This is connected to a decrease in blood sugar levels, which prompts the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.

These hormones can contribute to feelings of agitation. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to understand that not all irritability is a result of low blood sugar. Occasionally, experiencing hunger pangs can lead to mood swings, even if your blood sugar levels remain stable. 

The number of people suffering from hunger is rising. 

When your blood sugar levels decrease, your body is deprived of the necessary fuel, particularly your brain. Consequently, you may experience a strong desire to consume food. When selecting foods, it’s crucial to prioritize nutrient-rich options such as non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Although sugary snacks and starchy carbs may provide a temporary surge in blood sugar, this effect is fleeting and does not contribute to long-term regulation of blood sugar levels.

Nightmares: 

Hypoglycemia can also impair your rest. Besides causing night sweats, hypoglycemia can also result in restless nights and vivid nightmares. Individuals with diabetes frequently experience nightmares that interfere with their sleep patterns.

If you frequently wake up from disturbing dreams, it could be beneficial to investigate whether hypoglycemia is impacting your sleep quality. It’s crucial to have a conversation with your doctor about your evening routine, including your eating and physical activity patterns, if you frequently have nightmares. 

Distraction from task. 

Difficulty concentrating on tasks could be a sign that your blood sugar levels are too low. When the level of glucose in your body decreases, your brain doesn’t receive enough energy to function optimally, resulting in a lack of focus and challenges in performing basic tasks. Low blood sugar can also impact children, hindering their focus and learning capacity, especially if they neglect to eat regular meals.

Dizziness can be caused by a number of different conditions, including low blood sugar, dehydration, inner ear problems, and medications. It can also be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as a brain tumor or stroke. If dizziness is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. 

Experiencing lightheadedness after forgetting to eat may suggest a decrease in your blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels drop, the body releases hormones that can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, and increased hunger.

Dehydration can exacerbate this sensation, so it’s crucial to maintain proper hydration levels. However, dizziness can also be caused by other factors, such as problems with the inner ear. If consuming food does not alleviate the dizziness, it may be advisable to seek medical advice to investigate other possible causes. 

Shakiness:

If you experience trembling, it could be an indication that your blood sugar levels are low. When blood sugar levels decrease, your body releases adrenaline to stimulate you to consume food.

Shakiness after eating could, however, be a sign of a condition known as idiopathic postprandial syndrome (ips), which resembles symptoms of low blood sugar. While ips usually doesn’t need medical intervention, being aware of these symptoms can help distinguish it from genuine hypoglycemia. 

Poor eyesight. 

Blurry vision can also be a sign of low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia can lead to visual impairments, including blurred vision or double vision, especially in individuals with diabetes.

Unfortunately, high blood sugar can also impact your eyesight by causing the lenses in your eyes to swell. If you notice any long-lasting changes in your vision, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor to ensure there are no underlying causes. 

Impaired articulation. 

If you notice yourself struggling to articulate your words or experiencing difficulty speaking, it may be a sign of low blood sugar. This typically occurs when blood sugar levels drop below 40 mg/dl. Slurred speech and challenges in comprehending language are indications that you should consume food.

In addition to muscle twitching, difficulty walking, and emotional changes, other symptoms may manifest during this stage. Understanding the distinction between mild and moderate symptoms can assist you in taking prompt action before the situation worsens.

Sleep disturbance. 

If you often struggle to fall asleep, low blood sugar levels during the night could be the cause. Sleep disturbances, like waking up feeling tired or moody, can be associated with nocturnal hypoglycemia.

These symptoms can also include night sweats, which have a negative impact on your ability to sleep peacefully. Consistently maintaining a regular sleep schedule is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels and reducing the likelihood of obesity and diabetes. 

Seizures or loss of consciousness. 

Sudden drops in blood sugar levels can result in more severe complications, including seizures, fainting, or even a diabetic coma. Individuals with diabetes, especially those with dangerously low blood sugar levels, may be at risk of experiencing a diabetic coma. Early indicators of severe hypoglycemia usually manifest before a coma, making it crucial to raise your blood sugar levels gradually by consuming glucose tablets or regular soda to avoid life-threatening situations.

Palpitations of the Heart. 

Palpitations, rapid heartbeats, or fluttering sensations in the chest could also be signs of low blood sugar. This occurs due to the release of adrenaline, triggered by low glucose levels, which initiates a ‘fight-or-flight’ response in the body. Hypoglycemia can also result in irregular heart rhythms and reduced blood flow to the heart, which in rare instances can lead to severe conditions like cardiac arrhythmia. 

Disclaimer: the information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is crucial to seek advice from your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional for any worries or questions you may have regarding your health condition or medication. 

In summary, low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, can present itself in a multitude of physical and emotional symptoms, varying from mild discomfort to potentially life-threatening health complications.

Being aware of the initial symptoms of low blood sugar—such as perspiration, irritability, hunger, lightheadedness, and blurred vision—can assist you in promptly addressing the problem and avoiding more severe consequences.

Consistently keeping blood sugar levels in check by following a well-balanced diet and eating regular meals is crucial for maintaining good health and overall well-being.

If you frequently or severely experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, it is crucial to seek medical advice from your healthcare provider to determine the root cause and receive appropriate guidance on effectively managing your blood sugar levels.