4.3 List the signs and symptoms of hypoglycaemia

This guide will help you answer 4.3 List the signs and symptoms of hypoglycaemia.

Hypoglycaemia is a medical term for low blood sugar. This happens when the level of glucose in the blood falls below the normal range. Glucose gives energy to the body’s cells, especially the brain. When blood sugar drops too low, it can cause a range of effects and may become dangerous if not corrected. People with diabetes who take certain medicines, like insulin, risk developing hypoglycaemia, but it can affect others too.

The condition can develop quickly. Workers in health and social care must recognise the signs and symptoms early. Fast recognition helps prevent serious complications such as unconsciousness or seizures. This guide covers some of the signs and symptoms that may indicate hypoglycaemia.

What are Blood Sugar Levels?

Blood sugar (glucose) is measured in millimoles per litre (mmol/L) in the UK. Normal fasting levels are usually 4.0 to 5.9 mmol/L. If the level falls below about 4.0 mmol/L, this is considered hypoglycaemia. The body starts to lack the glucose it needs to function well.

Glucose is vital for brain function. When there is too little, the brain reacts first, then the rest of the body. Most symptoms develop because the brain is not receiving enough glucose, or because the body is trying to raise sugar levels by releasing stress hormones.

Why Recognising Hypoglycaemia Matters

Quick recognition of hypoglycaemia is important. If left untreated, low blood sugar can cause confusion, accidents, unconsciousness, or in rare cases, even death. Spotting the early warning signs helps you act quickly. Fast action keeps the person safe.

It’s important to check with each person or their care plan, as signs and symptoms may differ between individuals and according to their normal blood sugar management.

Typical Signs and Symptoms of Hypoglycaemia

Recognising hypoglycaemia involves watching for a variety of symptoms. Not every person displays every symptom. The signs can range from mild to severe. Here are the most common signs and symptoms to look out for in a health and social care setting:

Early Warning Signs

1. Hunger
Many people suddenly feel very hungry, even if they have recently eaten. This is the body’s way of asking for more fuel.

2. Sweating
Unusual sweating can occur, such as sweating in cool conditions or sweating when resting. It is often a cold, clammy sweat.

3. Trembling or Shaking
Noticeable shaking, especially in the hands, is common. The person might seem nervous or unable to keep their hands steady.

4. Paleness
Skin may become pale or have a washed-out appearance. Others may comment that the person “looks unwell”.

5. Palpitations
The person may feel their heart beating very quickly or irregularly.

6. Anxiety or Irritability
Mood can change quickly. The person might seem anxious, nervous or easily upset for no clear reason.

Cognitive and Behavioural Signs

7. Confusion
The person may seem confused or have trouble understanding what is happening. They could be slow to respond or answer questions.

8. Difficulty Concentrating
Tasks that were easy a few minutes ago may become hard. The person may appear distracted, struggling to follow conversations or instructions.

9. Odd or Unusual Behaviour
This might include being argumentative, rude or unusually stubborn. Sometimes, people may behave as if they are drunk, even if they have not consumed alcohol.

10. Speech Difficulties
Speech may become slurred, mumbled or incoherent. Others may not be able to understand what the person is saying.

11. Lack of Coordination
Movements can become unsteady or clumsy. Walking, using the hands or performing tasks can be difficult.

Physical and Sensory Symptoms

12. Weakness or Fatigue
The person may feel weak, tired or physically drained. They might struggle to stand, walk or even hold objects.

13. Dizziness or Light-headedness
Feeling dizzy, faint, or light-headed is common. This can make it dangerous for the person to walk or use stairs.

14. Tingling Sensations
Some people notice tingling or numbness in the lips, tongue or fingertips. This may feel like pins and needles.

15. Blurred or Double Vision
Vision may become unclear. The person could complain about not being able to see properly, or that things look fuzzy or double.

Severe Symptoms

If early symptoms are not noticed or treated, hypoglycaemia can get worse quickly. Severe symptoms may follow.

16. Loss of Consciousness
If blood sugar drops very low, the person could faint or become unresponsive.

17. Convulsions or Seizures
Severe hypoglycaemia can lead to fits or jerking movements. This is a medical emergency.

18. Inability to Swallow
Swallowing may become hard, which increases the risk of choking.

19. Unresponsiveness
The person may seem “out of it” and cannot be woken or communicate.

These severe complications need emergency help. If someone shows these signs, call for help and follow your workplace emergency procedures.

Groups at Higher Risk

Certain groups are more likely to have hypoglycaemic episodes. Those who might be especially at risk include:

• People with diabetes who use insulin or some oral tablets
• Elderly people
• People with kidney or liver conditions
• Young children
• Those with a history of alcohol intake

Watching these groups closely makes it easier to spot early signs.

Variability Among Individuals

Symptoms can be different from person to person. Some people have “hypoglycaemia unawareness”, which means they do not feel the early warning signs. This can be very dangerous. Pay special attention if someone has a history of missed signs. Always follow individual care plans and risk assessments.

Timeframe of Symptoms

Hypoglycaemia can occur very quickly. In some cases, symptoms can develop in a few minutes, especially after exercise, missing a meal, or taking more medicine than needed. This means that workers need to be vigilant and ready to act.

What To Do If You Suspect Hypoglycaemia

If you notice symptoms in someone, act quickly. Each care setting should have a process to follow. This usually includes:

• Checking (or asking to check) a blood sugar reading if possible
• Offering a sugary carbohydrate snack or drink if the person is alert and can swallow
• Staying with the person to observe their response
• If the person becomes drowsy, unconscious or cannot swallow, call for medical help straight away and do not offer food or drink, as this could cause choking

Always consult the person’s individual care plan and your workplace procedures. Record the incident and any actions taken.

Factors That Might Trigger Hypoglycaemia

Understanding why hypoglycaemia may happen helps prevent future episodes. Triggers can include:

• Delaying or missing meals or snacks
• Taking too much insulin or diabetes medication
• Increased physical activity compared to normal (exercise uses up glucose quickly)
• Drinking alcohol without eating enough food
• Illness or vomiting (not able to eat as usual)
• Hormonal fluctuations (for example, during menstruation)

If you know about possible triggers, you can watch more closely for signs.

Monitoring and Prevention

For those at risk, regular blood sugar monitoring is important. Knowing the numbers can help spot falling levels before symptoms become serious. Remind those at risk to carry quick-acting carbohydrate snacks. Support their dietary plans and encourage open communication about how they feel.

Care plans are written to support people with long-term conditions. These plans detail what to look for and what actions to take. Reading and following these plans carefully can save lives.

How to Communicate With Someone Experiencing Hypoglycaemia

Speak calmly and clearly. Offer reassurance and tell them you are there to help. If possible, help them sit down to keep safe. Explain what you are doing if they seem confused. Do not leave them alone until they recover or medical help arrives.

Responding and Recording

Always follow your organisational procedures. Recording each incident accurately is important. Include:

• The time symptoms started
• What you observed
• Treatments or actions taken
• How the person responded
• Any further actions, for example contacting healthcare professionals or family

This information protects both the individual and staff. It guides future action plans.

Final Thoughts

Spotting hypoglycaemia quickly is one of the best ways to keep people safe in health and social care settings. Every person may have a different combination of symptoms, and these can change even for the same individual on different days. It is important to be observant and respond to any changes in behaviour or physical signs. Acting promptly avoids more serious complications.

Routine awareness of symptoms, following care plans, and communicating openly with people in your care create a safer environment. Remember, you are an important part of early detection. Your knowledge saves lives and supports better health. Stay vigilant, trust your skills, and always seek help if you are unsure. Hypoglycaemia is serious, but with awareness and action, it can be managed well.