What Are the Side Effects of Low Blood Sugar?

A normal blood sugar level ranges approximately 60 to 120 mg/dL, states "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach." Low blood sugar, termed hypoglycemia, is a measurement of less than 60 mg/dL, which is a sugar level that is not adequate to fuel your body. You may experience hypoglycemia as a condition by itself or as a complication of another disease or disorder. Typically, if you are diabetic you may experience hypoglycemia if you have taken too much medication, missed a meal or eaten less than usual. If you develop any signs and symptoms of low blood sugar, you should inform your physician.

Inform your physician if you develop any signs of low blood sugar. (Image: Hakan Kızıltan/iStock/Getty Images)

Shakiness and Dizziness

Dizziness can occur if you have hypoglycemia. (Image: Theepatheep Kawinpathawee/iStock/Getty Images)

If you have hypoglycemia you may experience shakiness or trembling in your hands and body. Dizziness or light-headedness is another symptom and can become dangerous when driving or performing activities that require alertness. If you experience these side effects, you should call your physician right away. Drink orange juice or suck on hard candy if you suspect low blood sugar.

Sweating

Inform your physician if you experience low blood sugar. (Image: Ferli Achirulli/iStock/Getty Images)

Hypoglycemia may cause sweating or feelings of warmth. You may have a pale skin color, as well. Low blood sugar should be treated properly. If you experience low blood sugar you must inform your physician to see if the current medication regimen is appropriate.

Hunger

Diabetics need to pay close attention to their meals. (Image: moodboard/moodboard/Getty Images)

Hunger is another symptom you may experience with hypoglycemia. Your body usually asks for what it needs; the main cause of hypoglycemia is the lack of food needed for your body to function. If you are diabetic you must pay close attention to meals and be consistent with meal times.

Headache

Headaches can occur when blood sugar levels drop in your body. (Image: Monkey Business Images Ltd/Monkey Business/Getty Images)

A headache is not uncommon when the blood sugar levels drop in your body. However, a headache, as well as the other symptoms, is not solely caused by hypoglycemia. You should discuss symptoms with a physician because not every individual has the same symptoms or the same symptoms each time.

Changes in Behavior

Changes in behavior may be indicative of hypoglycemia. (Image: AlexRaths/iStock/Getty Images)

Changes in behavior may be indicative of hypoglycemia. You may experience difficulty concentrating or confusion. Sudden moodiness or irritability is also common.This behavior should be reported to a physician right away. The American Diabetes Association reports that you may also experience anger, impatience and sadness.

Symptoms While Sleeping

Hypoglycemia can occur while you're sleeping. (Image: nilswey/iStock/Getty Images)

Hypoglycemia may occur while you sleep. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse states that hypoglycemia may cause nightmares and sweating. You may cry out while sleeping or toss and turn due to nightmares. You may find that your pajamas and bed sheets feel wet or damp from sweating. It is possible that you will experience feelings of irritability, confusion, or tiredness when you wake up.