In the life of a diabetic child, hypoglycemia is a common complication. Hypoglycemia mildly or moderately affects most children who are dependent on insulin to control their blood sugar levels. Diabetics do not produce the hormone insulin, which converts sugar and starches into energy. Consequently, their blood sugar falls too low to effectively fuel their bodies. Diabetic children need to eat regular meals, take regular medication, and moderate their exercise levels, being sure to have a small snack after extended periods of exertion. If meals are missed or delayed, too little food is eaten, or too much medication is taken by a diabetic child, hypoglycemia becomes a problem.


Hypoglycemia does rarely appear in children who are not diabetic. The cause in this case is either an underlying disease, or indeterminate, and the symptoms are similar to diabetes-related hypoglycemia. A doctor will use laboratory tests to measure glucose and insulin in the attempt to find a cause.


Symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, paleness, sweating, hunger, irritability, mood swings, and confusion. If you suspect hypoglycemia in your child, verification can be done by checking blood glucose levels. Appropriate glucose levels range between 70 and 150. It is important to note that if your child is diabetic, you and everyone who cares for or spends time with her, such as teachers, babysitters, parents of friends, and coaches should be aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia and educated on what to do if they appear. A medical ID bracelet is a good idea as well and should be strongly encouraged, especially for older children, who spend more time away from home in a variety of different social situations where their condition may be unknown to those around them.


At its onset, hypoglycemia can be controlled by simple measures. A couple of hard candies, half a cup of orange or grape juice, or a half a can of (regular) soda should bring blood sugar up, and restore balance. Do not give the child more than this, even if she seems to want more. Instead, wait ten or fifteen minutes to see if symptoms improve. It is dangerous to over treat hypoglycemia, as it could cause high blood glucose later on in the day.



If symptoms are not promptly recognized and treated in the child, hypoglycemia could become severe. Severe hypoglycemia could interfere with brain function. The child could become unconscious, and slip into a diabetic coma.

Once severe hypoglycemia sets in, the child may not be able to swallow food or medication. Should this happen, the only solution is the injection of glucagon directly into the bloodstream. Glucagon kits can be obtained by prescription at local pharmacies, and it is a good idea to carry one with you, and for one to be given to any caretakers of a diabetic child, with clear instructions as to how to administer it. In the event that there is no glucagon available, the child must be taken immediately to the hospital for treatment.


With knowledge of what to look for and a prompt response to symptoms in your child, hypoglycemia is one complication of diabetes that, like most others, can be managed, ensuring your child a more normal and happy life.