Oncology for Women

Appointments: 301-564-4966

Health Library

Diabetic Hypoglycemia

Diabetic hypoglycemia (also called insulin shock or insulin reaction) is having an abnormally low amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood relative to the amount of insulin in the blood.

A person with diabetes can become hypoglycemic by taking too much insulin or diabetes medicine or by skipping meals.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia include headache, hunger, weakness, sweating, anxiety, and changes in personality. If untreated, it can lead to seizures, unconsciousness, brain damage, or death.

Treatment for diabetic hypoglycemia involves eating foods that contain sugar or getting a dose of glucagon. This is a substance that stimulates the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Patient Stories

This isn't your grandma's hysterectomy. Hear what patients are saying.
[ click here ]

health library

View our comprehensive online library of health care topics. [ click here ]