Health
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are Reactive Hypoglycemia Symptoms?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

Some of the more common reactive hypoglycemia symptoms include dizziness, increased heart rate, and high blood pressure. Other reactive hypoglycemia symptoms include profuse sweating and extreme tiredness. In some cases, reactive hypoglycemia symptoms such as anxiety attacks, prolonged insomnia, and psychosis may indicate a condition that requires hospitalization.

Hypogylcemic conditions include low blood sugar or low blood glucose. When a person with this condition consumes sugar, the body tends to produce an excessive amount of insulin. When this occurs, blood glucose levels may drop dramatically, impairing the patient's ability to function normally. The individual may experience reactive hypoglycemia symptoms reflecting lack of energy, such as anemia.

A person with hypoglycemia checking her blood glucose levels.
A person with hypoglycemia checking her blood glucose levels.

In anemic conditions, the patient may often experience a lack of balance or dizziness. This may also be a result of increased blood pressure or hypertension. In addition to the dizziness, some individuals may also experience headaches throughout the day. Extreme hunger or unusual cravings can also be a symptom of this condition.

Some patients with hypoglycemia may experience a change in vision. A sudden need for prescription eyeglasses may present itself because of cloudiness or obscure vision. These symptoms can often coincide with diabetic conditions as well.

Eating hard candies can quickly raise blood sugar.
Eating hard candies can quickly raise blood sugar.

Quite often, persons who are afflicted with this medical disorder may experience reactive hypoglycemia symptoms such as irritability and nervous tension. A feeling of excitability or inability to fall asleep for long periods may also manifest with this condition. The patient may also experience shortness of breath and anxiety attacks.

Although this condition affects people differently, some patients may experience reactive hypoglycemia symptoms that are severe. In some patients, the extreme anxiety may manifest as psychotic behavior. Sadness, depression, and symptoms that mimic bipolar disorder may be present.

When a person suffering from hypoglycemic conditions goes untreated, symptoms may be extreme enough to require hospitalization. Disorientation and bewilderment may precede seizures. In some cases, loss of consciousness may occur.

When hypoglycemic conditions go untreated, symptoms may include loss of consciousness.
When hypoglycemic conditions go untreated, symptoms may include loss of consciousness.

If a proper diagnosis of hypoglycemia has been established, the patient should keep an emergency supply of energy-producing food items on hand. In case of a sudden attack, she may consume a handful of raisins or some hard candy. Any of these foods may temporarily raise blood sugar levels. Fruit juice or soda may also be substituted.

In addition to this emergency intake, there are special diets for hypoglycemia patients that may be recommended under a physician's supervision and care. In many cases, the physician may refer the patient to a trained dietitian who can help the individual maintain a healthy plan to manage the condition.

Discussion Comments

donasmrs

@MikeMason-- I don't think so.

Diabetics may experience hypoglycemia from time to time if they take too much insulin triggering blood sugars to fall too much. When that happens you may feel like fainting, you may get dizzy, confused, irritated and tired. It can actually be dangerous. You should check your blood sugar and take glucose tablets as necessary when that happens.

But reactive hypoglycemia is completely different from this. It may show the same symptoms but the symptoms are usually after meals and can appear multiple times a day.

stoneMason

Is it possible to have type 2 diabetes and reactive hypoglycemia together?

I have these symptoms from time to time even though I'm a diabetic. I am taking medication.

fBoyle

I've been diagnosed with hypoglycemia but wasn't really told in detail how I should manage it. The doctor gave me a basic diet and said to stay away from foods with a high glycemic index. Apparently these foods cause a sharp increase and then a sharp fall in blood sugar.

I'm trying to do that, I eat healthy. I only eat complex carbs, I avoid processed sugars. But I'm still having low blood sugar symptoms. I get dizzy and shaky sometimes and confused. I'm also having more intense anxiety. I almost fainted the other day, my friend gave me some chocolate and I felt better.

What else should I be doing?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A person with hypoglycemia checking her blood glucose levels.
      A person with hypoglycemia checking her blood glucose levels.
    • Eating hard candies can quickly raise blood sugar.
      By: Bert Folsom
      Eating hard candies can quickly raise blood sugar.
    • When hypoglycemic conditions go untreated, symptoms may include loss of consciousness.
      By: Igor Normann
      When hypoglycemic conditions go untreated, symptoms may include loss of consciousness.
    • The signs of hypoglycemia often include high blood pressure and a rapid heart rate.
      By: Monkey Business
      The signs of hypoglycemia often include high blood pressure and a rapid heart rate.
    • A person suffering from reactive hypoglycemia may experience irritability and nervous tension.
      By: Creativa
      A person suffering from reactive hypoglycemia may experience irritability and nervous tension.
    • Fruit juice can help raise blood sugar levels.
      By: Anna Kucherova
      Fruit juice can help raise blood sugar levels.
    • Shortness of breath is one symptom of reactive hypoglycemia.
      By: nuiiko
      Shortness of breath is one symptom of reactive hypoglycemia.
    • Soda in small quantities can help to treat a hypoglycemic attack.
      By: Deyan Georgiev
      Soda in small quantities can help to treat a hypoglycemic attack.
    • Consuming peanuts on a regular basis can help regulate blood sugar.
      By: lirtlon
      Consuming peanuts on a regular basis can help regulate blood sugar.