What is hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia is defined as a condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels. This state occurs when the glucose in the bloodstream drops below normal, which can lead to a range of symptoms including shakiness, confusion, sweating, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness or seizures. It typically occurs in individuals with diabetes who may have taken too much insulin or other diabetes medications, or it can result from not eating enough, prolonged physical activity, or various medical conditions.

Understanding the nature of hypoglycemia is critical for recognizing its symptoms and ensuring prompt treatment, which often involves fast-acting sources of sugar (like glucose tablets or sugary drinks) to quickly raise blood sugar levels back to normal.