Hypoglycemic unawareness is a condition where no symptoms are felt when blood glucose drops to hypoglycemic levels (below 70 mg/dl). If early warning symptoms of hypoglycemia are not felt and steps are not taken to restore blood glucose to a normal level, it can drop dangerously low. A person may lose consciousness before even realizing that he or she is low. There are several reasons why hypoglycemic unawareness can develop.
- Having diabetes for a long time may make it difficult to notice the symptoms of hypoglycemia.
- Tight glucose control can lead to hypoglycemic unawareness, because repeated episodes of hypoglycemia can cause people to become accustomed to feeling low. They may fail to notice the early warning signs when they occur.
- If someone has had an episode of hypoglycemic unawareness it is more likely that they will have repeated episodes.
When hypoglycemic unawareness is a concern, frequent blood glucose testing is recommended. Family and friends should also be made aware of this condition, so they can help when blood glucose levels fall too far. It's also a good idea to keep some quick sources of glucose handy, such as juice boxes, candy (not chocolate), or glucose tablets. A glucagon kit should also be kept at hand, in case the person is unable to take in sugar orally.
