Chronic Hypoglycemia Symptoms

Hypoglycemia can present a wide array of symptoms, and symptoms can change from episode to episode. People with chronic hypoglycemia may have no symptoms at all, or they may suffer from stomach ailments, lethargy, blackouts and seizures. The following is a list of some of the more common complaints of patients suffering from chronic hypoglycemia.

Trembling and Shaking

• Trembling hands and legs are often reported in people with chronic hypoglycemia. In addition, extremities (nose, fingers, toes, etc.) may feel cold to the touch.

Sweating

• Another symptom is sweaty hands and feet. This is often noted in the fasting state (i.e., before breakfast) or between meals.

Craving Sugary Foods

• The body will try to compensate for hypoglycemia by craving carbohydrates such as chocolate cake, orange juice or soda. Because of this, patients with chronic hypoglycemia will often have difficulty losing weight.

Stomach Ailments

• The first sign that blood sugar is dropping is sometimes a feeling of hunger or nausea. In severe cases, chronic hypoglycemia can also lead to vomiting.

Neurological Problems

• An acute hypoglycemic attack can lead to unconsciousness, seizures and brain damage. However, more subtle neurological symptoms can suggest hypoglycemia: being scatterbrained and feeling in a "mental fog" are both associated with chronic hypoglycemia.