Nursing Diagnosis for Hypoglycemia

The diagnosis of hypoglycemia is a difficult one because there are so many conditions that are similar and mimic the symptoms. Narrowing down a diagnosis requires more than just tests. The health-care provider must display skills and the condition must be readily apparent if it is to be recognized in conjunction with other existing illnesses. Diabetes is one indicating factor, though it isn't necessarily always present. Hypoglycemia is a dangerous condition, and improper treatment or lifestyle can easily lead to death or injury.

Identification

• The condition known as hypoglycemia can be identified by the sudden or gradual lowering of the individual's blood sugar. Most experience hypoglycemia at some point in their lives but for many the condition occurs frequently enough to require medication. Those diagnosed as hypoglycemic are often diabetic or show early signs of diabetes. Hypoglycemia sufferers note that the symptoms disappear once their blood sugar reaches a normal level. Symptoms can appear within minutes of a sufferer's blood sugar reaching critically low levels, and can disappear just as quickly when the blood sugar levels normalize.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of hypoglycemia vary from patient to patient and the severity of each episode may also vary. Some of the most common symptoms include sudden hunger or the urge to eat shortly after a meal, shakiness or dizziness; also light-headedness and confusion. Trouble speaking, feelings of anxiety and sudden feelings of tiredness are also symptomatic.

Prevention/Solution

• Depending on whether or not the patient experiencing hypoglycemia is a diabetic already being treated (or not) will affect the treatment regimen. The strategy for sufferers undergoing diabetes treatment often involves finding the right combination of insulin-regulating pills. Once a doctor prescribes the correct dosage and course of treatment, high blood sugar and low blood sugar can be kept at more normal levels, as long as the patient eats right. Those who suffer from nondiabetic hypoglycemia, also known as reactive hypoglycemia, should choose foods with a high fiber content, keeping the diet balanced with fruits and vegetables; sugar-loaded foods should be kept to a minimum.

Treatment

• A person experiencing hypoglycemia can go from no symptoms to severe symptoms within a matter of minutes. Those who have experienced low blood sugar in the past should keep items at hand that will help to raise their blood sugar level should they experience a hypoglycemic episode. Many diabetics choose to drink juices such as orange or apple to increase their blood sugar quickly. Others choose to drink four ounces of regular soda. Some opt to carry glucose gel or tablets with them at all times. Contact a doctor if episodes are frequent, or if conditions linger, as there may be a more serious problem.

Expert Insight

• Some, but not all, diabetics wear bracelets or necklaces that proclaim their status as diabetics. Having one of these pieces of jewelry could save your life if you are rendered unable to treat yourself in an attack. Anyone encountering a person showing signs of dizziness or confusion should look for a diabetes bracelet before trying to help the individual.