Hypoglycemia is also known as low blood sugar. It occurs when your blood sugar level drops too low. It can happen if your medication is too potent, you've gone too long between meals or if you've been exercising a lot. Not enough sugar in your blood means that your cells don't have enough glucose for energy. And if you have no energy, you can expect to pass out—or worse.

Your brain also needs glucose to function. It doesn't make its own glucose and is dependent on the glucose in your blood. When you are experiencing hypoglycemia, you might feel nervous or shaky, dizzy or lightheaded, sleepy or hungry. You may be confused, sweaty, or have difficulty speaking or walking.

If you feel these symptoms, eat or drink a sugary snack right away, such as a half cup of orange juice, half a can of regular soda, 5 to 7 lifesavers or jelly beans or 2 teaspoons of sugar, honey or corn syrup. Test your blood sugar as soon as possible and then in fifteen minutes after your sugar dose.

Keep in mind that the sugar blast you just consumed is only a temporary fix. For the remainder of the day, keep closer-than-normal tabs on your blood sugar levels and make sure you eat healthy, substantial foods that help your levels stay where they need to be.

Published 10/17/08