Slurring of speech, on the other hand, is one of the most prevalent signs of low blood sugar. “Extreme hypoglycemia can result in slurred speech as well as other neurological symptoms such as confusion,
, tingling, or numbness.” “One can even fall into a coma,” said Dr. Pawan Kumar Goyal, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Fortis Hospital in Shalimar Bagh.
This is because the human brain requires a steady supply of glucose or sugar for energy. “When blood glucose levels fall below a critical level, the brain becomes unable to function normally, resulting in a variety of neurological symptoms such as confusion, numbness, blurred vision, and slurred speech.” If the low blood glucose levels continue and hypoglycemia is not addressed, the patient may enter a coma. “It can be fatal,” Dr. Goyal explained.
According to Dr. Jimmy Pathak, Consultant, Endocrinology and Diabetes, Max Hospital, Vaishali, glucose is the primary metabolic fuel for the brain. “Because the brain cannot synthesize and store more than a few minutes’ worth of glucose, it requires a continuous supply of glucose from the circulation.” Low blood glucose interferes with proper brain activity and causes speech slurring.”
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But what exactly causes low blood sugar? According to specialists, hypoglycemia has multiple causes. “These include medications such as oral anti-diabetics (sulfonylureas) and insulin.” Hypoglycemia can also be caused by sepsis, liver disease, kidney disease, alcohol, tumors, or hormonal imbalances such as cortisol, according to Dr. Pathak.
Dr. Goyal emphasized that slurred speech caused by low blood sugar can be avoided by avoiding hypoglycemia or low blood sugar crises.
Guide to Keeping Blood Sugar in Check
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Have regular meals and snacks throughout the day - Keep track of blood sugar levels
- Adjust medication based on blood sugar levels
- Avoid fasting or skipping meals
- Regular exercise and limiting alcohol consumption
- Bring a quick-acting source of glucose, such as glucose pills or candies.
- In the event of low blood sugar symptoms, glucose tablets should be taken as soon as possible
- Carry medical identification that states they are diabetic
“The 15-15 rule suggests consuming 15 grams of carbohydrate when blood glucose is low and re-checking it after 15 minutes. If it’s still below 70 mg/dL, have another serving,” Dr. Pathak added.
Source: Medindia
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