In this article, we will discuss the Definition of Hypoglycemia. So, let’s get started.
Definition
Normal lower limit of fasting plasma glucose is 70 mg/dl. Hypoglycaemia is defined as low blood sugar (<70 mg%) or relatively low plasma glucose (<55 mg/dl) are usually associated with symptoms of sympathetic overactivity and neuroglycopenia.
According to Diabetic Control and Complication Trial (DCCT), hypoglycaemia is defined as an event or state resulting in seizures, confusion, coma and other neurological symptoms consistent with hypoglycaemia (e.g. sweating palpitation, hunger or blurred vision) and finger-prick blood glucose less than 50 mg% and its amelioration by treatment that raises the blood glucose.
Hypoglycaemia is major hazard of
insulin treatment and is also common
with oral hypoglycaemia agents (OHA) especially in elderly. Neonatal hypoglycaemia in infants born to diabetic mothers is well-known.
Hypoglycaemia is a medical emergency requiring urgent management. Today, with advances in the management of diabetes and its complications, cases of hypoglycaemia progressing to coma and death are being seen rarely.
Occasionally, hypoglycaemia may be the presenting feature of an acute illness and is called spontaneous hypoglycaemia.
Fasting hypoglycaemia in an otherwise healthy, well-nourished adult is rare and is mostly due to insulinoma or adenoma of islets of Langerhans’. Adenoma may be single, familial but multiple adenomas are found in MEN-I type syndrome.