Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

Hypoglycemia is a medical condition that results in lower blood glucose than normal. Glucose is the primary source of energy for our body. Low blood sugar can result in various symptoms such as  irregular heartbeat, pale skin, irritability, unconsciousness, tiredness, and anxiety. 

Hypoglycemia can be caused by antidiabetic medications or as a side effect of medications like quinine, clarithromycin, linezolid, doxycycline, ciprofloxacin, and metronidazole. Medical conditions such as liver and kidney disorders, adrenal or pituitary gland tumour, pancreatic tumours like insulinoma are also associated with hypoglycemia.

Hypoglycemic patients need immediate attention, especially when blood sugar levels are dangerously low. This condition can be treated by getting the blood sugar back to an average level. Immediate treatment would be eating or drinking 15 to 20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates. These can include glucose tablets, juices, honey, jelly beans, or gumdrops. In case of severe hypoglycemia, one might require glucagon injection or intravenous glucose.