In real life, many people are aware of the dangers of high blood sugar, but few understand the health risks of hypoglycemia, often dismissing it as a "minor issue" or simply being "hungry."
Is this really the case?
Lets hear from Dr. Hou Zeling, an endocrinology expert at Hainan Chengmei Hospital, who will share scientific insights and strategies for dealing with hypoglycemia.
Hypoglycemia Is Not a "Minor Issue"—It Can Cause Brain Damage and Even Death
Many people mistakenly believe that hypoglycemia is just a matter of feeling "anxious and shaky from hunger," which can be resolved by eating some sugar. In reality, when hypoglycemia occurs, the body is already in a critical state.
Its Not Just About Eating Some Sugar
Dr. Hou Zeling points out that persistent hypoglycemia can act as an "invisible killer," posing a significant and hidden threat to health.
Dr. Hou Zeling explains that the most critical impact of hypoglycemia is on the nervous and cardiovascular systems. The human brain relies almost entirely on blood sugar for energy. If hypoglycemia persists for over six hours, brain cells become "starved," leading to irreversible damage. This can also trigger acute cerebral infarction, acute myocardial infarction, arrhythmia, respiratory failure, and other life-threatening conditions.
Who Is at Risk of Hypoglycemia?
Dr. Hou Zeling warns that three high-risk groups need to be particularly vigilant.
Diabetic Patients
Individuals with diabetes, particularly those using insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents, are prone to hypoglycemia when they overdose on medication, have irregular eating habits, or suddenly increase their physical activity.
Individuals on Extreme Diets or Weight Loss Regimens
Those who are on long-term diets with insufficient caloric intake, especially those who drastically reduce their carbohydrate intake, can deplete their liver glycogen reserves, leading to an imbalance in blood sugar regulation.
Patients with Special Conditions
Patients with liver or kidney diseases, insulinoma, and women in the mid-to-late stages of pregnancy are at higher risk.
Dr. Hou Zeling specifically noted that in recent years, there has been a significant increase in cases of hypoglycemia among young people due to "intermittent fasting" and "ketogenic diets." There is a need to be vigilant about the potential dangers of "dieting oneself into a life-threatening situation."
How to Recognize Hypoglycemia?
When these symptoms appear, it may be your bodys way of "crying for help." Hypoglycemia symptoms can vary from person to person. Dr. Hou Zeling categorizes them into three types:
Typical Symptoms: Palpitations, trembling hands, cold sweats, hunger, limb weakness, and pale complexion.
Neuroglycopenic Symptoms: Dizziness, headache, lack of concentration, slurred speech, unsteady gait, and in severe cases, convulsions and coma.
Asymptomatic Hypoglycemia: Common in long-term diabetic patients, the elderly, or during sleep. It may lead to sudden coma without any prior signs. This type is often the most dangerous.
The death of "Argentine Qina" was likely related to undetected nocturnal hypoglycemia.
Dr. Hou Zeling stated that if someone nearby appears to be confused or unresponsive to calls, especially if they have a history of diabetes or a dieting habit, it is crucial to immediately check for hypoglycemia.
How to Prevent Hypoglycemia?
Prevention is key in managing hypoglycemia, rather than waiting for it to occur and then responding. Dr. Hou Zeling emphasized that diabetic patients need to control their blood sugar precisely, avoiding the "tightrope walk."
Firstly, follow medical advice regarding medication and do not adjust doses without consultation.
Secondly, eat meals regularly and in appropriate quantities. It is recommended that carbohydrates account for 50%-55% of daily caloric intake. Abstain from alcohol or avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
Thirdly, check blood sugar levels before exercise. If below 5.6 mmol/L, consume 10-15g of carbohydrates, such as two soda crackers. Recheck blood sugar after exercise. If blood sugar is below 6.0 mmol/L before bedtime, consider consuming a small amount of complex carbohydrates, such as whole-wheat bread or sweet potatoes, to prevent nocturnal hypoglycemia.
For the general population, avoid extreme dieting or monotonous diets (such as avoiding carbohydrates altogether). Maintain regular sleep patterns and ensure adequate rest. Those on long-term diets or weight loss regimens should regularly monitor their blood sugar levels and promptly replenish sugar if experiencing dizziness or cold sweats.
Hypoglycemia First Aid: Every Second Counts, Mistakes Can Be Fatal
"The golden time for hypoglycemia first aid is within 15 minutes of symptom onset, and the approach should be based on the level of consciousness," Dr. Hou Zeling provided professional guidance:
For Conscious Individuals: Immediately take 15-20g of glucose (e.g., 3-4 sugar cubes or 150ml of fruit juice). Recheck blood sugar after 15 minutes. If still below 3.9 mmol/L, repeat the process.
For Individuals with Altered Consciousness or Coma: Do not administer any food or liquids to avoid choking. Call emergency services immediately. Simultaneously, administer a 50% glucose solution intravenously (only to be performed by medical professionals).
Post-First Aid Observation: Even if symptoms are relieved, medical attention is still necessary to identify the cause and prevent recurrence.
Dr. Hou Zeling emphasized that there are no "what ifs" in life—scientific understanding is the best form of prevention. Hypoglycemia is not a "minor issue" but a serious health risk that requires scientific management and active prevention.
Expert Profile
Hou Zeling
Attending Physician, Endocrinology Department
Medical Expertise:
Specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of common endocrine disorders, including diabetes and its complications; hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroiditis; obesity, gouty arthritis, lipid metabolism disorders, electrolyte imbalances, and primary aldosteronism.
Clinic Hours:
Full days on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays; Tuesday afternoons
Written by: Liang Shan
Edited by: Huang Fei