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Low Blood Sugar in Babies

According to the Children's Hospital of Boston, about two in 1,000 newborn babies have low blood sugar. There are certain factors that increase your baby's risk of developing low blood sugar. However, any baby can be at risk if his blood sugar is not normal. The Children's Hospital of Boston states that low blood sugar in babies may not be preventable in some cases, so it is vital that you be proactive by monitoring your baby's health.

  1. The Facts

    • Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, is a condition in which there is a lack of glucose in the body derived from foods. Glucose is used as energy, and in babies, is crucial for brain function. Premature babies and those with a hypoglycemic mother are at an increased risk of developing low blood sugar.

    Causes

    • Low blood sugar in babies is the result of low levels of glucose in the liver or bloodstream. Some babies are born with the condition due to a lack or nutrition from the mother inside the womb, liver disease, or a mother with untreated hypoglycemia.

    Symptoms

    • The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia states that the symptoms of hypoglycemia in babies may be difficult to detect, because they can be similar to those of other preexisting conditions or normal activities. These symptoms include apnea (irregular breathing patterns), blue coloring of the skin, hypothermia, jitteriness, lack of body tone, lethargy, poor feeding, seizures, fatigue, excessive hunger, rapid heart rate, rapid pulse and confusion.

    Prevention/Solution

    • If you suspect any possible symptoms of low blood sugar in your baby, see your pediatrician for a blood test and diagnosis. If the doctor confirms that hypoglycemia is present, she will prescribe glucose treatments. The amount of treatment varies, depending on the severity of the disease, your baby's age, and your baby's overall health and tolerance to medications. Once under treatment, closely monitor your baby's blood sugar levels and make sure that she is tested regularly.

    Warning

    • Normal blood sugar levels are vital in babies, because glucose is the primary source of brain energy at this stage in life. Low blood sugar levels in babies can cause brain injuries and seizures. Comas may also occur in severe or prolonged cases of low blood sugar. If you suspect that your baby has hypoglycemia, call your doctor immediately.

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