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COMMON PROBLEMS OF DIABETES Hypoglycemia (Insulin Reaction) Hypoglycemia (too little glucose in the blood) is one of the most frequent adverse events experienced by insulin users. It can be brought about by: Text Continues Below
1. Taking too much insulin 2. Missing or delaying meals 3. Exercising or working more than usual 4. An infection or illness (especially with diarrhea or vomiting) 5. A change in the body's need for insulin 6. Diseases of the adrenal, pituitary or thyroid gland, or progression of kidney or liver disease 7. Interactions with other drugs that lower blood glucose, such as oral hypoglycemics, salicylates (for example, aspirin), sulfa antibiotics, and certain antidepressants 8. Consumption of alcoholic beverages Symptoms of mild to moderate hypoglycemia may occur suddenly and can include: ° sweating
° drowsiness
° dizziness
° sleep disturbances
° palpitation
° anxiety
° tremor
° blurred vision
° hunger
° slurred speech
° restlessness
° depressed mood
° tingling in the hands, feet, lips, or tongue
° irritability
° lightheadedness
° abnormal behavior
° inability to concentrate
° unsteady movement
° headache
° personality changes Signs of severe hypoglycemia can include:
° disorientation
° seizures
° unconsciousness
° death Therefore, it is important that assistance be obtained immediately. Early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia may be different or less pronounced under certain conditions, such as long duration of diabetes, diabetic nerve disease, medications such as beta-blockers, change in insulin preparations, or intensified control (3 or more insulin injections per day) of diabetes. A few patients who have experienced hypoglycemic reactions after transfer from animal-source insulin to human insulin have reported that the early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia were less pronounced or different from those experienced with their previous insulin. Without recognition of early warning symptoms, you may not be able to take steps to avoid more serious hypoglycemia. Page: << Prev | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Next >>
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