However, blood glucose levels can become severely low if left untreated, whichcan be very dangerous.

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Hypoglycemia Overview

Hypoglycemiais low blood glucose levels.

How Common Is Hypoglycemia?

close-up of woman checking blood glucose

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Hypoglycemia is common among people with diabetes.

Nondiabetic hypoglycemiais a rare medical condition that occurs in people without diabetes.

Hypoglycemia by Age and Sex

Older age can increase the risk of developing hypoglycemia.

Some research has found a possible link between hypoglycemia and cardiovascular events.

Prevention and Early Detection

Identifying hypoglycemia can help you prevent it from becoming too low.

This is called hypoglycemia unawareness.

Summary

Hypoglycemia refers to having low blood glucose levels.

It is more common among people with diabetes, especially those who use insulin and other certain diabetes medications.

Research suggests that Blacks are more likely to experience hypoglycemia than Whites.

In addition, older age is a risk factor for hypoglycemia.

Women may be more likely than men to experience it.

Knowing the potential causes of hypoglycemia and the signs and symptoms can help you prevent or identify early hypoglycemia.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

2022;10(4):e002705.

2018;41(1):104-111. doi:10.2337/dc17-1669

American Diabetes Association.Low blood glucose (hypoglycemia).