Hypoglycemia in Seniors – Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatments

Hypoglycemia occurs when the blood glucose level lowers to 70 mg or more. It produces diverse symptoms and challenges, but an insufficient supply of glucose to the brain remains significant, which causes impaired body functions. Symptoms may differ slightly from person to person. Still, typical symptoms can range from mild dysphoria (emotional state presenting depression, anxiety, or unease) to hunger, frailty, and more intense issues like heart palpitations, seizures, and, seldom, permanent brain damage or even risk the longevity of the lifespan. Severe cases may also result in insulin shock, commonly known as unconsciousness. The most common reason for hypoglycemia is an overdose of diabetes mellitus medication, whether oral or insulin injections. According to Home Care Services Edmonton, it can happen at any age, but seniors are found to be more prone.

Symptoms

Hypoglycemia is one of the seniors' most common and harmful conditions. However, the symptoms are often overlooked due to physical and cognitive impairments such as strokes, dementia, or other related conditions can make it quite challenging for seniors and caregivers to identify the symptoms. Symptoms can remain hidden even in mentally stable seniors, which make it more difficult to identify. But these are the primary symptoms:

1. Dizziness or lightheadedness — a sudden sensation of dizziness or lightheadedness can be a sign that a person's blood sugar is lowering, and this can be a warning sign.

2. Confusion — if a senior suddenly feels confused, this may be a sign that their blood sugar level is dangerously low.

3. Sweating — an increase in the amount of sweat that a senior produces may be an indicator of hypoglycemia.

4. Trembling or shaking — Trembling or shaking is a sign of low blood sugar levels and may signal that the body does not have enough energy to perform properly.

5. Blurred vision — an older citizen who is suffering from hypoglycemia may also experience hazy vision as a side effect of their blood sugar dropping to dangerously low levels.

Other symptoms include amplified thirst, vision impairment, and frequent urination but can remain unnoticed because of these common age-related effects of the body. Varying conditions like incontinence, mental confusion, and other conditions often indicate hypoglycemia.

Prevention

Prevention is a major part of treating hypoglycemia and diabetes. Consuming alcohol, delaying or skipping meals, lack of carbohydrate consumption, or working out without adjusting carbohydrate consumption can increase the chances of having low blood glucose levels. Insulin-emitting tumors can also cause it.

The blood sugar of your elderly relative should be checked every two hours. Get familiar with the signs that anything is wrong so that you can respond swiftly and appropriately if a problem arises. Suppose a loved one exhibits symptoms of hypoglycemia. In that case, you should treat them by giving them 15–20 grams of healthful, easily digestible sugary foods or carbs, such as juices, crackers, raisins, corn syrup, and peanut butter, to boost their blood glucose level. Avoid giving them too much food, as this might lead to insulin resistance and weight gain. Ten minutes after administering the sugar, check to see if the patient's state has returned to normal, or administer another 15 grams. If your loved one's condition does not improve after three attempts at self-care, it is time to get them the medical attention they need.

Treatment

Hypoglycemia is a serious condition and must not be taken for granted. If it remains untreated, it can cause senior fainting or even permanent brain damage. If your loved one faints, they would need an immediate medical treatment such as a glucagon injection.

Prevent recurring hypoglycemia in your loved one by;

• Increasing the frequency of testing blood sugar levels in a day

• Educating the people who spend time with your loved one

• Having them wear a bracelet that shows the person with recurring hypoglycemia with their name, address, phone number or any other trusted person.

Get in touch with reliable In-Home Care Edmonton providers if your loved one exhibits signs of hypoglycemia so that they may receive the assistance they need to deal with the condition. The carers will not only assist with the management of hypoglycemia, but they will also promote a healthy lifestyle and assist with remaining at home with family and cherished memories.