Most Common Diabetic Hypoglycemia Symptoms

Nightmares

Nightmares are a late-stage symptom of diabetic hypoglycemia that could occur for certain patients. The patient may cry out while sleeping, and this can be particularly frightening for family members. Upon waking from the nightmares, patients may feel nervous or irritable, and weakness or drowsiness might be present. Some patients could develop blurred vision or other types of visual disturbances. If the patient believes their nightmares could be due to hypoglycemia, getting out of bed to check blood sugar levels is crucial. If levels are low, patients should remain out of bed and eat a snack containing carbohydrates. Keeping glucose gel or tablets on a bedside table may be helpful in reducing the stress associated with nighttime episodes of diabetic hypoglycemia. Patients should inform their endocrinologist about nightmares and any other mental or neurological disturbances that take place during episodes so medication adjustments can be considered.

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Muscle Weakness

Muscle weakness typically begins in the early stages of diabetic hypoglycemia, and it may get worse if the condition progresses to later stages. Patients may be unable to lift or grasp objects, and they could drop items. In the legs, muscle weakness could result in problems standing, walking, or bending, and patients could fall. If the patient suddenly feels weak, they should try to sit or lie down as soon as possible to prevent falls or other injuries. At times, muscle weakness may be accompanied by a fast, pounding heartbeat, and some patients have reported tingling in the mouth. These symptoms typically all resolve once blood sugar has normalized, and the patient may need to rest or lie down for a while after this point to regain strength. After an episode of weakness, the patient should first try to sit up in bed, and if this feels okay, standing is the next step. It is important to stand up slowly, and having something nearby to hold onto is recommended. Ideally, the patient may wish to try walking with someone next to them, just in case some weakness is still present.

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