Hypoglycemia Treatment in Delhi, India

Hypoglycemia occurs when an individual's blood sugar (glucose) level falls below the standard range, with glucose being the primary energy source for the body.

This condition is frequently associated with diabetes treatments; however, various medications and a range of conditions, some uncommon, can lead to low blood sugar in individuals without diabetes.

Immediate treatment is crucial for hypoglycaemia. For many individuals, an alert for hypoglycaemia is triggered by a blood glucose level of 70 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL) or 3.9 millimoles per litre (mmol/L) or below. It's important to note that these numbers may vary, and individuals should consult their healthcare providers to determine their specific thresholds.

Hypoglycaemia can manifest in various forms, each with distinct causes and characteristics. The types of hypoglycaemia include:

Reactive Hypoglycemia

Reactive hypoglycaemia occurs a few hours after meals, driven by an excess insulin release. It is commonly associated with specific medical conditions, dietary choices, or prior gastrointestinal surgery.

Fasting Hypoglycemia

Fasting hypoglycaemia arises during extended periods without food. Rooted in underlying health issues, medications, or excessive alcohol intake, it occurs between meals and poses distinct challenges for diagnosis and management.

Hypoglycaemia can happen for a variety of reasons, but the most common causes include:

• Diabetes: People with diabetes, especially those taking insulin or other diabetes medications, are at increased risk for hypoglycaemia. This is because these medications help lower blood glucose levels, and sometimes they can work too well.
• Not eating enough: Carbohydrates are the main source of glucose for your body, so if you don't eat enough, your blood sugar levels can drop. This is especially common if you skip meals or go for long periods without eating.
• Too much exercise: Exercise can burn off glucose, so if you exercise too much without eating enough, you can develop hypoglycaemia.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with your body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels, leading to hypoglycaemia.
• Certain medications: Some medications, such as certain heart medications and antibiotics, can cause hypoglycaemia as a side effect.
• Hormonal issues: Conditions such as Addison's disease, hypopituitarism, and insulinoma can affect the hormones that regulate blood sugar levels, leading to hypoglycaemia.

If blood sugar levels drop too low, hypoglycaemia may manifest through various signs and symptoms, including:

• Looking pale: Insufficient blood sugar compromises circulation, resulting in paleness.
• Shakiness: Rapid drop in glucose triggers the body's stress response, causing tremors.
• Sweating: An autonomic nervous system reaction to low blood sugar.
• Headache: Insufficient glucose supply affects brain function, leading to headaches.
• Hunger or nausea: The body signals a need for fuel, accompanied by digestive distress.
• Irregular or fast heartbeat: Adrenaline release in response to low glucose speeds up the heart.
• Fatigue: Inadequate energy for body functions results in pronounced tiredness.
• Irritability or anxiety: Neurotransmitter imbalances due to low blood sugar contribute to mood changes.
• Difficulty concentrating: Reduced glucose availability affects cognitive function.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Insufficient blood supply to the brain causes dizziness.
• Tingling or numbness: Altered nerve function due to low glucose can result in sensations in the lips, tongue, or cheek.

As hypoglycaemia worsens, additional signs may include:

• Confusion or unusual behaviour:Cognitive impairment and altered behaviour due to inadequate brain fuel.
• Loss of coordination: Impaired nervous system function affects motor skills.
• Slurred speech: Neuromuscular dysfunction manifests in speech difficulties.
• Blurry vision: Insufficient glucose affects the eyes, causing visual disturbances.
• Nightmares (if asleep): Disruption of normal sleep patterns due to low blood sugar.

Severe hypoglycaemia may lead to:

• Unresponsiveness (Loss of Consciousness): Profoundly low blood sugar can result in unconsciousness.
• Seizures: Neurological dysfunction may trigger seizures in extreme cases.

Diagnosing hypoglycaemia involves a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history analysis, and specific laboratory tests. Here is an overview of the diagnostic process:

Clinical assessment

• Symptom Evaluation: The healthcare provider assesses the patient's reported symptoms, such as shakiness, sweating, dizziness, and changes in behaviour or consciousness.
• Medical History: The doctor reviews the patient's medical history, including any existing medical conditions, medications, dietary habits, and exercise routines.

Blood glucose testing

• Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test: A fasting blood glucose test measures blood glucose levels after an overnight fast. Low fasting blood glucose may indicate hypoglycaemia.
• Postprandial blood glucose test: This test evaluates blood sugar levels after meals and can identify reactive hypoglycaemia.
• Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c): This test provides an average of blood sugar levels over several months, offering insight into long-term glucose control.

Immediate Treatment for Hypoglycaemia Symptoms

If experiencing hypoglycaemia symptoms, take the following steps:

• Consume 15 to 20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets, glucose gel, fruit juice, regular soda, honey, or sugary candy.
• Recheck blood sugar levels after 15 minutes. If levels remain below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L), consume another 15 to 20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates. Repeat until blood sugar is above 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L).
• Have a snack or meal once blood glucose returns to the standard range to prevent further drops and replenish glycogen stores.

Immediate Treatment for Severe Hypoglycaemia

Severe hypoglycaemia, requiring assistance, may involve a glucagon injection or intravenous glucose. Those with diabetes using insulin should have a glucagon kit for emergencies. Family and friends should be aware of its location and usage.

In cases where the person is unconscious, avoid attempting to give food or drink. If a glucagon kit is unavailable or unfamiliar, seek emergency medical help.

Treatment of Underlying Conditions

To prevent recurrence of hypoglycaemia, the healthcare provider identifies and addresses the underlying cause:

• Nutrition counselling: Consult with a registered dietitian to review eating habits and plan meals, reducing hypoglycaemic occurrences.
• Medication adjustment: If a medication is the culprit, the healthcare provider may recommend changes, additions, or discontinuation of the medication, or adjustments to the dosage.
• Tumour treatment: Tumours in the pancreas may require surgical removal. Medication or partial pancreas removal could also be necessary in certain cases.

Max Hospitals stands out as a premier choice for hypoglycaemia treatments in Delhi, providing unparalleled care for those seeking solutions. Here's why Max Hospitals is one of the best neonatal hypoglycaemia hospitals:

Cutting-edge medical expertise

At the heart of Max Hospitals is a dedicated team of highly experienced specialists and medical professionals specialising in hypoglycaemia treatment. With a remarkable history of successful interventions, they bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and commitment to ensure every patient has the best chance of recovery.

Holistic patient care

Addressing hypoglycaemia is not just a medical journey but an emotional one as well. Acknowledging this, Max Hospitals offers comprehensive care. From initial consultations and well-being programs focused on hypoglycaemia management to ongoing support post-treatment, patients and their families are embraced by a compassionate and supportive team.

Reputation and trust

Having established a legacy in healthcare, Max Hospitals has become synonymous with successful hypoglycaemia treatments in Delhi and beyond. Our consistent results and patient-centric approach have earned us the trust of both individuals seeking relief from hypoglycaemia and referring physicians.

Accessibility

Strategically located, Max Hospitals ensures that top-tier hypoglycaemia care is easily accessible. With branches in key cities across India, we have extended a beacon of hope for countless individuals seeking relief from the challenges of hypoglycaemia.

How do you treat a unconscious person due to hypoglycaemia ?

In the person is unconscious, make the person lie sideways. Glucagon inj is preferred if the person does not have intravenous access and dextrose can be given to patients with IV access. Do not give anything orally to an unconscious person. Rapid acting carbohydrates are a preferred treatment for conscious person.

What's the difference between hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia?

Hypoglycaemia is characterised by low blood glucose levels, leading to symptoms such as shakiness and confusion, while hyperglycaemia involves high blood glucose levels and may result in symptoms like excessive thirst and frequent urination. Both conditions are associated with diabetes but require distinct management approaches.

How did I cure my hypoglycaemia?

The management of hypoglycaemia often involves lifestyle adjustments, such as regular and balanced meals, along with medications or insulin therapy prescribed by a healthcare professional. Prevention of hypoglycaemia typically involves ongoing monitoring, adherence to treatment plans, and consultation with a healthcare provider.

What is the immediate treatment for hypoglycemia?

Immediate treatment for hypoglycaemia involves consuming 15–20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates, like glucose tablets, fruit juice, or sugary candy. Rechecking blood sugar levels after 15 minutes and repeating the process until levels are above 100 mg/dL (5.5mmol/L) is recommended.

Is hypoglycemia an emergency?

Severe hypoglycaemia, especially when leading to unconsciousness or seizures, is considered a medical emergency. Prompt treatment, such as glucagon administration or intravenous glucose, may be necessary, and emergency medical assistance should be sought.

What is the first-line treatment for hypoglycemia?

The first-line treatment for hypoglycaemia involves consuming fast-acting carbohydrates to raise blood sugar levels. This could include glucose tablets, gel, fruit juice, regular soda, honey, or sugary candy.

Who can treat hypoglycemia?

Healthcare professionals, including endocrinologists, general practitioners, and diabetes educators, can provide treatment and management guidance for hypoglycaemia. Individuals with diabetes are also trained to self-treat mild episodes.

Is hypoglycemia self-treatable?

Mild hypoglycaemia can often be self-treated by consuming fast-acting carbohydrates. However, severe cases may require assistance from others or emergency medical services.

What is the range for neonatal hypoglycaemia?

Neonatal hypoglycaemia is typically defined by blood glucose levels below 45 mg/dL (2.5 mmol/L) in newborns. Monitoring and treatment are essential to prevent complications.

Do you need to see a doctor for hypoglycemia?

Yes, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and management of hypoglycaemia. A doctor can help identify the underlying causes and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

Who can diagnose hypoglycemia?

Healthcare professionals, including doctors, endocrinologists, and diabetes educators, can diagnose hypoglycaemia through a combination of medical history, blood tests, and other diagnostic measures.

Reviewed by Dr. Ambrish Mithal, Chairman & Head - Endocrinology & Diabetes - Endocrinology & Diabetes on 15-Apr-2024.