HypoglycaemiaE16.2
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Blood sugar levels usually drop to values of less than 50 mg/dl in treated diabetics.
EtiopathogenesisThis section has been translated automatically.
Dietary errors, vomiting and diarrhoea, alcohol abuse, overdose of insulin or oral antidiabetics, unforeseen physical exertion, increased glucose utilization, e.g. in the case of insulinomas or insulin-producing malignancies.
Clinical featuresThis section has been translated automatically.
Feelings of hunger, tiredness, trembling, tachycardia, headaches, later behavioural disorders, visual disturbances, neurological failures and finally clouding up to coma. Skin symptoms: Rare itching, often hyperhidrosis and paleness.
TherapyThis section has been translated automatically.
In case of mild hypoglycaemia oral supply of carbohydrates (e.g. 3-6 sugar cubes, 1-2 tablespoons dextrose, bread, 1-2 glasses of fruit juice), in case of loss of self-control 40-60 ml 40% glucose solution i.v. possibly infusion of 20-40% glucose. Blood glucose levels should be adjusted to about 200 mg/dl.