Knowra Hypoglycemia Hypoglycemia Hypoglycemia is abnormally low blood glucose that can impair normal body function. It is most common in people receiving diabetes treatment but can also arise from other causes.
Blood glucose : The concentration of glucose circulating in the blood, regulated by hormones, food intake, and tissue uptake. Hypoglycemia is defined by blood glucose falling below a level that supports normal function.
Insulin-induced hypoglycemia : Low blood glucose caused by insulin doses exceeding a person's immediate glucose needs. It is a frequent and potentially severe complication of insulin treatment.
Continuous glucose monitoring : A method that estimates glucose in interstitial fluid repeatedly using a wearable sensor. It can reveal low-glucose patterns and overnight episodes that intermittent blood tests may miss.
Hyperglycemia : An abnormally high concentration of glucose in the blood. It is the opposite direction of glucose abnormality and has different immediate risks and treatment.
Insulin : A pancreatic hormone that lowers blood glucose by promoting glucose uptake and storage. Excess insulin can drive glucose downward and is a common cause of treatment-related episodes.
Sulfonylurea-induced hypoglycemia : Low blood glucose caused by sulfonylurea medicines that stimulate pancreatic insulin release. These drugs can cause prolonged episodes, particularly when meals are missed or kidney function is impaired.
Blood glucose meter : A portable device that estimates blood glucose from a small blood sample, usually obtained by finger prick. It provides a rapid check when hypoglycemia is suspected, though unexpected results may need confirmation.
Diabetic ketoacidosis : A life-threatening diabetes complication involving insulin deficiency, ketone accumulation, and metabolic acidosis. It is a distinct emergency associated with insufficient insulin, rather than glucose falling too low.
Glucagon : A pancreatic hormone that raises blood glucose, largely by stimulating the liver to release glucose. Glucagon is a key defense against falling glucose and is also used to treat severe episodes.
Reactive hypoglycemia : Symptoms associated with a glucose decline occurring after a meal, sometimes with documented low blood glucose. Its timing after eating distinguishes it from fasting episodes, though symptoms alone do not establish hypoglycemia.
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