Key Facts
Hypoglycemia is a condition in which your blood sugar (glucose) level is lower than the standard range. It is often related to diabetes treatment, but other conditions can also cause low blood sugar.
Pathophysiology
Glucose is the body's main energy source. Hypoglycemia occurs when glucose levels drop below ~70 mg/dL, triggering a counter-regulatory response (release of glucagon and adrenaline). In severe cases, the brain is deprived of fuel, leading to neuroglycopenic symptoms.
Symptoms & Clinical Features
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on "Whipple's Triad": 1. Symptoms of hypoglycemia, 2. Low plasma glucose measured at the time of symptoms, and 3. Relief of symptoms when glucose is raised.
Diagnostic Pathway
Initial Screening
Symptom review and baseline hormonal blood tests.
Confirmatory Testing
Advanced diagnostic protocols (e.g., OGTT, MRI, Suppression tests).
Personalized Plan
Tailored treatment strategy based on clinical results.
Treatment & Management
Immediate treatment is the "15-15 Rule": consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbs and recheck sugar in 15 minutes. For severe episodes, glucagon injections or IV dextrose are required. Long-term treatment involves adjusting diabetes medications or treating underlying hormonal/tumor causes.
Personalized treatment plans for your health.