Hypo can be caused by the following:
Hypoglycaemia (Hypo)
Too much insulin/diabetes medication Too little or no carbohydrate at your last meal (for example: rice, bread, pasta, noodles, potato, cereal)
Diabetes Centre
Delayed or missed meal or snack
Hypoglycaemia (hypo) means low blood glucose levels, less than 4mmol/L. Anyone who has diabetes and is taking medications (certain tablets or insulin injections) may experience hypos.
Unplanned or strenuous activity or exercise (for example: sports, running, housework)
Drinking too much alcohol or alcohol without food
Take note of important warning signs
Sometimes there is no obvious cause * Once a hypo event has happened, reflect on the possible cause.
Hypo can be dangerous! Some people have no warning signs! The only way to know is to check your blood glucose regularly.
Always carry some form of glucose for hypo treatment, for example: sweets, a can of soft drink or a bottle of fruit juice.
Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
DM.IE.02.0517
Feeling Hungry
Sweating
Anxiety/ Irritability
Blurred vision
Feeling tired/ Weakness
If someone has lost consciousness because of a hypo, call 995 immediately.
Confusion
Trembling/ Shaking
Fast heart beat
Immediate treatment of hypo
Follow-on treatment To prevent your blood glucose level from dropping again, you should follow with longer-acting carbohyrate. For example, a slice of bread, 3 crackers, a banana or your next meal if due.