Can you get Hypoglycaemia Without Being Diabetic?

Hypoglycaemia occurs when blood sugar levels get dangerously low. It most commonly affects diabetics, but it can also affect non-diabetics. Hypoglycaemia occurs when blood sugar levels fall below 70 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL). Severe hypoglycaemia can be life-threatening if not treated. Treatments aim to return blood sugar levels to normal.

Blood sugar (glucose) is the body's principal source of energy. When levels dip too low, the body lacks enough energy to function properly. This condition is known as hypoglycaemia. Insulin helps the body's cells absorb sugar from the bloodstream. A person with diabetes may require insulin shots because their body is insulin resistant or produces insufficient insulin.

Can you Have Hypoglycaemia Without Diabetes?

Hypoglycaemia can occur when there is insufficient sugar in your blood or when your body is unable to regulate your blood sugar levels. This happens when your level falls below 55 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL) without diabetes.

Low blood sugar indicates that your body lacks the necessary energy to function and carry out its activities. Non-diabetic hypoglycaemia can be caused by taking certain medications, drinking excessively, skipping meals or having an underlying health problem.

Food provides your body with glucose, which is its primary energy source. As a result, you may experience a drop in blood sugar after going several hours without eating or if you do not eat before exercising. In both circumstances, eating can help you keep your blood sugar stable.

Symptoms of Hypoglycaemia

Severe low blood sugar that causes unconsciousness is called hypoglycaemic or insulin shock. If you experience any of the symptoms, then immediately consult a doctor-

• Dizziness
  
• Tingling/numbness in the lips, cheeks or tongue
• Intense hunger
• Headache
• Difficulty concentrating
• Excessive sweating
• Tremors
• Blurred vision
• Personality changes
• Pale complexion

Causes of Hypoglycaemia

Drinking too Much Alcohol:

The pancreas produces glucagon when a person's blood sugar levels are low. Glucagon signals the liver to break down stored energy. The liver releases glucose back into the bloodstream to restore normal blood sugar levels. Drinking too much alcohol can impair the liver's function. It may no longer be able to release glucose into the bloodstream, resulting in transient hypoglycaemia.

Anorexia:

A person who has anorexia may not be eating enough to allow their body to manufacture enough glucose.

Hepatitis:

Hepatitis is an inflammatory disorder of the liver. Hepatitis can impair liver function. If the liver cannot manufacture or release enough glucose, then blood sugar levels might drop, resulting in hypoglycaemia.

Adrenal and Pituitary Gland Problems:

Problems with the pituitary gland or adrenal glands can lead to hypoglycaemia because they influence the hormones that control glucose production.

Kidney Issues:

The kidneys assist the body in processing medication and eliminating waste. If a person's kidneys are not working properly, medicines might accumulate in their bloodstream. This type of accumulation can alter blood sugar levels, resulting in hypoglycaemia.

Pancreatic Tumour:

Although pancreatic tumours are uncommon, having one might cause hypoglycaemia. Tumours in the pancreas can cause the organ to produce excessive insulin, which can cause blood sugar levels to fall.