Q:
What causes hypoglycemia in children?
A:
Hypoglycemia can be a condition by itself. It can also be a complication of diabetes or other disorder. It’s most often a problem in someone with diabetes. It occurs when there’s too much insulin, thus also called an insulin reaction.
Causes of hypoglycemia in children with diabetes may include the following:
- Too much medication; for instance, too much insulin or oral diabetes medication
- Medication mistakes. All families will, at some point, give the wrong kind of insulin for a meal or at bedtime.
- Inaccurate blood-glucose readings
- A missed meal
- A delayed meal
- Too little food eaten, as compared to the amount of insulin taken
- More exercise than usual
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Injury, illness, infection, or emotional stress
- Other medical problems sometimes seen in people with type 1 diabetes, such as celiac disease or an adrenal problem.
Consult your children’s doctor for more specific information if necessary.
Keyword: hypoglycemia children
