Why hypoglycemic headaches occur
Hypoglycemia(low blood sugar) can cause and worsen headaches.
A hypoglycemic headache can feel like dull throbbing in the temples.
If you get migraines, low blood sugar may trigger amigraineepisode.
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Why Does Low Blood Sugar Cause Headaches?
You may get a headache when your body’sglucose (or sugar) levels dropbelow 70 mg/dLthe benchmark for hypoglycemia.
Headaches from blood sugar this low are usually described as a dull, throbbing feeling in the temples.
Migraine Headaches
Hypoglycemia can also trigger a migraine headache.
Instead, the migraine is more likely to be accompanied by the hypoglycemia symptoms noted above.
Although, this is not a hard and fast rule.
Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Hypoglycemia-induced headaches can occur when you are fasting.
This is because your body isn’t able to maintain its glucose levels if you’re not eating anything.
Regular physical activity is another important management technique.
Good options include:
Sometimes, hypoglycemia will cause a person to pass out or lose consciousness.
Be sure to not attempt to feed an unconscious person with hypoglycemia, as this can cause choking.
It is very important not to drive yourself when having a hypoglycemic episode.
If there is no one who can drive you,call 911.
Keep your friends and family informed about ways they can act quickly to help you with a hypoglycemic episode.
Summary
Hypoglycemia can cause a dull, throbbing headache in your temples.
These headaches often occur alongside other symptoms like blurry vision, fatigue, and confusion.
Hypoglycemia-induced headaches can be prevented by making sure your blood sugar levels don’t drop.
If you have diabetes, double-check it’s well-managed.
If eating carbohydrates doesn’t help, seek medical attention right away.
American Diabetes Association.Understanding and managing low blood glucose (hypoglycemia).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Carb choices.
EHMTI-0229.A case of migraine like headache with postprandial hypoglycemia treated with lifestyle.J Headache Pan.
2014;15(Suppl 1):G39.
