### What is Hypoglycemia? If you have diabetes, your concern isn’t always that your blood sugar is too high. Your blood sugar can also dip too low, a condition known as hypoglycemia. This occurs when your blood sugar levels fall below 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). ### Symptoms of Hypoglycemia Common symptoms of low blood sugar include confusion, shakiness, sweating, and heart palpitations. Severe hypoglycemia can cause seizures or induce a coma if not treated. ### Causes of Hypoglycemia Hypoglycemia can be caused by diabetes medications that increase insulin production, skipping meals, or exercising more than usual. Even people without diabetes can experience hypoglycemia under certain conditions. ### Treating Hypoglycemia If you suspect you may be experiencing a hypoglycemic episode, check your blood sugar immediately. If it’s below 70 mg/dl, consume a snack with about 15 grams of glucose or fast-digesting carbohydrates, such as fruit juice or glucose tablets. Wait 15 minutes and recheck your blood sugar. If it’s still low, consume another 15 grams of carbohydrates. ### Preventing Hypoglycemia The best way to avoid hypoglycemia is by following your diabetes treatment plan, which includes managing your diet, exercise, and medications. Regularly test your blood sugar levels and adjust your treatment plan as needed with the help of your healthcare team. ### Emergency Situations Severe hypoglycemia can cause you to pass out. It’s important to educate your family, friends, and coworkers on how to administer a glucagon injection if you lose consciousness. Glucagon is a hormone that helps raise blood sugar levels quickly. Consult your doctor to see if you need a glucagon emergency kit. ### Conclusion Managing your blood sugar is a constant balancing act. By learning to control your blood sugar and recognizing the symptoms of hypoglycemia, you can prevent and treat low blood sugar episodes effectively.