What Is the Blood Sugar Range for Hypoglycemia?

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar happens when blood sugar levels fall below the normal range. Glucose, which is an important energy source for the body, comes from the foods we eat.

Features

• Hypoglycemia can strike quickly, but if left untreated can cause confusion, fainting, seizures, coma and possibly death.

Considerations

• For diabetics, a blood sugar level reading below 70 mg/dL can be considered hypoglycemia and it can be caused by a side-effect of diabetes medication, skipping meals, overexertion or large amounts of alcohol.

Treatment

• A mild bout of Hypoglycemia can be treated by eating a small amount of glucose-rich food such as a teaspoon of honey or 40 oz. of fruit juice. The blood sugar should be tested to ensure that it is above 70 mg/dL.

  Eating frequent, small meals of high fiber, low fat and complex carbohydrates and lean proteins; lowering sugar, soda and chocolate intake; and increasing fresh fruits and vegetables; and daily exercise can help prevent hypoglycemia symptoms from occurring.

Prevention/Solution

• Work with your doctor to adjust diabetes medications, carefully plan meals, monitor physical activities, alcohol intake and blood sugar levels.

Warning

• Hypoglycemia can be dangerous when it occurs while someone is driving. Testing your blood sugar before driving and eating frequent small snacks can help prevent this disorder.