Hypoglycemia refers to abnormally low blood glucose levels that can impair brain function and lead to potentially serious complications if not promptly recognized and treated. While most commonly associated with diabetes treatment, hypoglycemia can occur in individuals without diabetes due to hormonal imbalances, medication effects, critical illness, or metabolic disorders.

Blood glucose levels below the normal range trigger counter-regulatory hormone responses, including the release of glucagon and adrenaline. When these mechanisms fail or are overwhelmed, symptoms develop. Early symptoms include sweating, tremors, palpitations, hunger, anxiety, and dizziness. Severe hypoglycemia can cause confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and, in extreme cases, death.

In people with diabetes, hypoglycemia is often related to insulin therapy, oral glucose-lowering medications, missed meals, excessive physical activity, or alcohol intake. Recurrent episodes may lead to hypoglycemia unawareness, a dangerous condition in which warning symptoms are diminished.

Non-diabetic hypoglycemia may result from endocrine disorders such as adrenal insufficiency, pituitary disease, or insulin-secreting tumors. Liver disease, kidney failure, severe infections, and certain medications can also impair glucose regulation.

Diagnosis requires documentation of low blood glucose levels in conjunction with symptoms and symptom resolution after glucose correction. Identifying the underlying cause is essential and may involve hormonal testing, imaging, or supervised fasting studies.

Management focuses on immediate correction of low blood sugar and prevention of future episodes. Acute treatment involves rapid-acting carbohydrates or intravenous glucose in severe cases. Long-term strategies include medication adjustment, dietary modification with regular balanced meals, and addressing underlying hormonal or metabolic conditions.

Education is a critical component of care, particularly for individuals with diabetes. Patients and caregivers are trained to recognize symptoms early, monitor glucose levels, and respond appropriately. Continuous glucose monitoring systems can significantly reduce the risk of severe hypoglycemia.

Effective hypoglycemia management improves safety, quality of life, and treatment adherence. Addressing hypoglycemia proactively is essential to achieving optimal metabolic control without compromising patient well-being.