To understand the relationship between hypoglycemia and grand mal seizures (generalized or tonic-clonic seizures), it is very critical to understand and have adequate knowledge on the signs & symptoms of hypoglycemia. According to diabetes.org, “Hypoglycemia is a medical term referring to a health condition characterized by excessive low blood glucose levels, typically lower than 70 mg/dl.” In simple words, this condition can also be referred to as an insulin shock or an insulin reaction.
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Early Warning Signs and Symptoms of Hypoglycemia Seizures
Hypoglycemia seizures are a result of a variety of symptoms and effects but the main reason or the root cause is the scanty supply of glucose to the brain, causing neuroglycopenia (impairment of function). Such an imbalance or scanty supply of the brain fuel (glucose) can cause excessive derangements of body function such as:
- Feeling bad (Mood Swings)
- Seizures
- Coma
- Death (In rare cases)
Hypoglycemia and hypoglycemia induced seizures both can occur at any age and can arise from many conditions.
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
The most obvious signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia include:
- Feeling worried or anxious
- Nervousness
- Lack of coordination
- Sweating
- Intense hunger
- Palpitations (Rapid heart beatings)
- Sudden anger or feeling gloomy
- Numbness of the tongue
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Trouble concentrating
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Nightmares
- Confusion
- Clumsiness and
- Have trouble communicating (speaking)
Role of Glucagon in Hypoglycemia Induced Seizures
Having hypoglycemia seizures are one of the most distressing problems in diabetes. Glucagon, the hormone responsible to regulate glucose levels is seen as the main culprit in causing hypoglycemia induced seizures. When body’s capability to identify low-blood sugar level decreases, glucagon may not work effectively and the person remain completely unaware of the low-blood sugar levels, leaving them to experience serious problems such as grand mal seizures especially while they are asleep.
Signs of Hypoglycemia Unawareness
Hypoglycemia unawareness is common with people having Type 1 diabetes and more common with people suffering with Type 2 diabetes. The visible symptoms of this disorder include:
- A sudden drop in glucose level (blood sugar)
- Depression or stress
- Frequent low glucose (blood sugar) levels (Continuing from last few weeks or months or 24 to 48 hours)
- Alcohol consumption
- Beta blockers or use of other similar medications
- Having diabetes from more than 10 years
Hypoglycemia Unawareness
Is It Possible To Reverse Hypoglycemia Unawareness?
Research and medical studies shows that hypoglycemia unawareness can be reversed by avoiding frequent lows. Preventing sudden drop in blood sugar levels or lows for a minimum of 2 weeks can help a person to become aware again of low blood sugar levels. Having a control over lows for a period of three months can help a person to return to normal symptoms. Following are few ways in which you can reverse hypoglycemia unawareness:
- Set your blood sugar levels a little higher (not too high).
- Adjust your insulin levels carefully (keeping in mind your diet and exercise).
- Stay alert and identify the very first symptom of low blood sugar level.
- Keep a record of your blood sugar levels and consider blood sugar level below 3.3 mmol (60 mg/dl) as serious.
Final Words
Having knowledge on the various initial above signs and symptoms can help to prevent hypoglycemia seizures. Please share your views by leaving us a comment below. Let’s try to dig deeper into this health condition and help others.