Read and download our factsheet What is a Hypo? or watch our video animation for a quick guide to Hypoglycaemia, symptoms, causes, and how to help someone who is having a hypo.
What is hypoglycaemia?
Hypoglycaemia is when someone has very low blood sugar, sometimes it’s known as having a hypo. Hypoglycaemia mostly occurs in people with diabetes, when their blood sugar drops below 4mmol/l. 00.
Symptoms can include:
- Sweating or shaking
- Feeling confused, anxious, or irritable
- Feeling dizzy, tired, or weak
- Tingling lips or heart palpitations
- Blurred or tunnel vision
- Slurred speech
With severely low blood sugar someone may:
- Experience a seizure or fit
- Pass out
What causes hypoglycaemia?
The cause of a hypo is not always known, but common causes are:
- Taking too much insulin
- Not eating enough carbohydrates
- Missing or skipping meals
- Drinking alcohol
- Exercising
How to treat hypoglycaemia
If you or someone you know has hypoglycaemia symptoms, take fast-acting carbs like glucose tablets, sweets, or juice, then rest.
Check blood sugar after 10–15 minutes; if still low, repeat with more fast-acting carbs.
Once levels return to normal, eat a slow-acting carb, such as a sandwich.
If someone becomes unconscious, don’t give food or drink, place them in the recovery position and call an ambulance.
This is not intended as medical advice. Sources: NHS Diabetes.org NHSInform Mayo Clinic
