Hypoglycaemia

Question 1

What defines hypoglycaemia

Answer 1

low plasma glucose <3.6mmol/L

Question 1

What are causes of hypoglycaemia

Answer 1

inappropriate insulin regime
missed meals
unaccustomed exercise
drugs - diabetic drugs
liver failure
insulinoma
addisons disease
alcohol– causes exaggerated insulin secretion

Question 2

What are some autonomic symptoms that may be seen

Answer 2

when glucose < 3.3mmol/L
palpitations,

tremor
sweating,
anxiety,
hunger,
nausea

Question 3

What are some neuroglycopenic symptoms that may be seen

Answer 3

less than 2.8mmol/L

weakness
vision changes
confusion
convulsion
coma

Question 4

How do you manage hypoglycaemia

Answer 4

if conscious
-oral glucose 10-20g
- liquid, gel , tablet form

and complex carbohydrate

If consciousness impaired/patient unable to swallow

-1mg glucagon IM
– if fails IV dextrose ( 10% glucose infusion )

OR 20% dextrose through a vein