When this happens, the blood sugar is still extremely low, but some of the issues that could occur are not as extreme because the person is not diabetic.
What Is Hypoglycemia?
Hypoglycemia means a person has an abnormally low blood glucose level. This is also known as a low blood sugar level.
The brain depends on blood sugar as its main source of energy and if the levels are low, the brain can’t function properly. When hypoglycemia triggers brain function, it can cause:
DizzinessDifficulty focusing or concentratingHeadacheBlurred visionOther neurological symptoms
Hypoglycemia also interferes with the release of body hormones, including two hormones that the brain depends on to increase blood sugar levels:
Epinephrine Norepinephrine
The release of these hormones is known to cause:
SweatingRapid heartbeatHungerAnxietyTremors
Although hypoglycemia is common in individuals who have diabetes, there are individuals who are nondiabetic that can have hypoglycemia.
Some of the conditions that are related to nondiabetic hypoglycemia include the following:
Reactive hypoglycemia: This can happen within a few hours of eating a meal. Fasting hypoglycemia: This can be related to disease and other lifestyle factors.
AlcoholCancers, specifically liver cancerSevere liver diseaseA pancreatic tumorOverdose of aspirinInsulin use by an individual who doesn’t have diabetesGastrointestinal surgery that removes some part of the stomach. This type of surgery can change the normal relationship between insulin release and digestionA deficiency of cortisol from the adrenal gland or the pituitary gland. These hormones normalize blood sugar.
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
Some of the symptoms of hypoglycemia include the following:
AnxiousHungerFatigueNervousnessPerspirationAnxiousConfusedDizzyFeeling of weaknessTrouble sleepingIrritable
It is important to contact a healthcare professional if these symptoms are presented.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis for nondiabetic hypoglycemia is conducted by a doctor. They will:
Review symptomsCheck blood glucose levelLook at the risk for possible diabetesPerform a physical exam
Although the blood glucose level is an important part of the exam, it doesn’t give the full diagnosis.
The doctor will most likely order other tests based on the symptoms presented. Typically, a blood test is given to look at insulin levels, cortisol levels, and liver function.
To diagnose reactive hypoglycemia, the doctor may order a mixed-meal tolerance test. This drink is known to cause the body to make more insulin and raise blood glucose.
The liquid substance contains fats, sugars, and proteins. Once this is consumed, the blood glucose level is checked several times over a five-hour span. The doctor may also want the individual to use a continuous glucose monitoring device. To diagnose fasting hypoglycemia, the blood glucose should be checked every few hours while the individual is fasting over a few days.
Treatment
Treating nondiabetic hypoglycemia depends on the specific cause of the condition.
If an individual is on a medication that is causing hypoglycemia, a conversation with their doctor to change the medication is necessary. Depending on why they are taking the medicine is a factor. It is important to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine the best plan and outcome.
Other factors could be dietary. Working with a doctor and/or a dietitian to help with nutrition options is helpful. They can create a plan that will give a balanced diet tailored to the need of the person.
A Word From Verywell
If you have any symptoms of nondiabetic hypoglycemia, it is important to call your medical professional. They can help you determine a diagnosis and give you options for treatment and preventative measures as it relates to diabetes.
Although some nondiabetic hypoglycemia symptoms can look familiar, it is important that you pay attention and speak with a healthcare provider. Depending on your specific lifestyle and condition, they can help you create a plan that works best for your lifestyle.
