Contents
Hypoglycemia and Insulin: Understanding and Managing the Risks
Published: Jul 12, 2024
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a potential side effect of insulin therapy that concerns many people with type 2 diabetes. While it's important to be aware of this risk, understanding how to prevent and manage hypoglycemia can help you use insulin safely and effectively.
Recognizing Hypoglycemia
Symptoms of hypoglycemia can include shakiness, sweating, confusion, and irritability. It's crucial to learn to recognize these signs early. Blood sugar below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) is generally considered low. Regular blood sugar monitoring, especially when starting or adjusting insulin, helps catch low blood sugar early.
Preventing Hypoglycemia
Several strategies can help prevent hypoglycemia. These include taking insulin doses as prescribed, eating regular meals, monitoring blood sugar before exercise, and adjusting insulin for physical activity. It's also important to work closely with your healthcare team to find the right insulin dose that controls your blood sugar without causing frequent lows.
Managing Hypoglycemia
If you experience hypoglycemia, the '15-15 rule' is a good guideline. Eat 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates (like glucose tablets or juice), wait 15 minutes, then recheck your blood sugar. Repeat if necessary. Always carry a source of quick sugar with you. For severe hypoglycemia, where you can't treat yourself, emergency glucagon kits are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
It can occur, but proper management reduces the risk significantly.
Yes, nighttime lows can occur. Discuss prevention with your doctor.
No, but you may need to adjust insulin or eat snacks.
This condition needs special management. Consult your doctor.
The Bottom Line
While hypoglycemia is a risk with insulin, proper education and management make it a manageable aspect of diabetes care.
References
- American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. Diabetes Care 2024; 47:S111.
- Donnelly LA, et al. Diabet Med 2005; 22:749.
- Wysham C, et al. JAMA 2017; 318:45.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?