Emotions and blood sugars are a two-way street. Understanding their relationship can help in your blood sugar control. The brain controls the secretion of various stress hormones that can interfere with insulin’s effectiveness. On the other hand, when high or low levels of sugar reach the brain, the result may be impaired memory, anger, irritability, slowed thinking, or depression. As blood sugars rise, the levels of hormones that prevent depression may be lowered. This can worsen symptoms of depression and leave a person with less interest in doing the things needed to improve control, such as the thoughtful selection of food, regular exercise, and rest. A vicious cycle of growing depression and worsening control can arise.
It helps in this altered situation for others to recognize as early as possible that a low blood sugar is taking place so that it may be treated quickly. People vary in how they experience a low blood sugar and how one individual may act during a particular low blood sugar can also vary tremendously. Here are common symptoms that indicate a low blood sugar is underway.
Symptoms of Low Blood Sugars
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Adapted from Using Insulin © 2003. Walsh, Roberts, Varma, Bailey. Click here to order.
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