Safety Emporium for all your lab and safety needs

Glossary Index

MSDS Topics	Free Sites	FAQ's	Regulations	Glossary	Software	Suppliers
	Books	Forum	Poll	Fun stuff	Quiz	Store
Understand your MSDS with the MS-Demystifier				Search ALL our MSDS info

Hypoclycemia

Definition

Hypoglycemia is a medical term for a lower than normal level of sugar (glucose) in the the blood.

Additional Information

Hypoglycemia can be a dangerous condition because glucose is the major source of energy for the brain. Lack of glucose, like lack of oxygen, produces brain damage or even death if the deficit is prolonged. Hypoglycemia can occur when one has inadequate glucose intake or if a diabetic injects too much insuling. These situations are common in people with diabetes who receive too much insulin or who don't eat enough. Hypoglycemia starts to cause the following symptoms when glucose levels fall below 50 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL):
• Sweating
• Shakiness, tremors, convulsions
• Anxiety, nervousness
• Pallor, coldness, clamminess
• Hunger
• Dizziness, confusion
• Headache
• Cloudy vision
• Abnormal behavior
• Loss of consciousness

Hypoglycemia that is severe enough to cause seizures or unconsciousness can ususally be reversed without obvious harm to the brain. Cases of permanent neurological damage usually involve prolonged, untreated unconsciousness or interference with breathing.

Books Available

• "Hypoglycemia for Dummies," Second Edition, 2007 Info and/or order
• "Hypoglycemia: The Classic Healthcare Handbook," 2002 Info and/or order

MSDS Relevance

Certain materials, such as manganese dioxide, can cause hypoglycemia if ingested.

Further Reading

• The American Diabetes Association has a glucagon training video in addition to loads of information about hypoglycemia and diabetes.
• The National Diabetes Information Clearing House explains what hypoglycemica is, its symptoms, and causes in people with or without diabetes. It includes tips for eating right.
• MedicineNet.com provides an in depth article about the symptoms, causes and treatments of hypoglycemia.

See also: Concentration

Additional definitions from Google and Onelook.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is believed to be true and accurate, however ILPI makes no guarantees concerning the veracity of any statement. Use of any information on this page is at the reader's own risk. ILPI strongly encourages the reader to consult the appropriate local, state and federal agencies concerning the matters discussed herein.