If your blood sugar level is too low, then you have a hypo (hypoglycaemia). A hypo influences your whole body, including your brain, although the body will try very hard to provide your brain with enough glucose for as long as possible so that it can continue to work properly. If your brain is in i trouble, your blood sugar level is usually very low.
The symptoms are different for everyone; one person might suffer from physical problems and quickly notice these, while another person might not notice any physical signs but will start to behave differently. The most important thing is, that you yourself learn to recognize which complaints indicate that your blood sugar level is too low.
A hypo is not a nice experience, so if your blood sugar level is dropping fast or getting too low, you need to eat something. You can also get a hypo at night. For example, if you have had too much insulin before going to bed or if you have played a lot in the afternoon or in the evening. Therefore it is important to measure your blood sugar before you go to bed.
Hypo = too low blood sugar level
- Hungry
- Feeling bad
- Vibrations
- Anxious
- Palpitations
- Numb lips, tongue or fingers
- Looking pale
- Cold sweat
Effects of a hypo on your brain:
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision, double vision, changes in how you perceive colours
- Difficulty in hearing
- Strange speech
- A headache
- Feeling warm or cold
- Difficulty with coordination (unsteady walking)
- Strange behaviour, judging things less well
- Being confused
- Difficulty with concentration
- Problems with short-term memory
- Fainting
- Convulsions (fits)
Handling changes that come with puberty can be more difficult. Blood sugars are more difficult to regulate, so that it can be difficult to get a grip on them. Your diabetes team has a lot of experience with diabetes during puberty. They can probably teach you some tips and tricks.
