HYPOGLYCEMIA

EXPERIENCE IN DIABETICS

Abstract

Hypoglycemic symptoms are a very common experience for diabetics ranging from an innocent increased appetite to dreadful unconsciousness. This study was designed to assess the patient’s awareness about the symptoms, experience of individual symptoms and their ability to recognize and to respond accordingly. Materials and Methods: All diabetic patients were assessed for the awareness of different symptoms of hypoglycemia, their experience of individual symptoms in last six months and ability of the patient and family members to recognize and to respond accordingly to these symptoms on a prescribed proforma with the help of trained staff. Results: We had 1260 new cases of DM during the study period with valid diagnosis and taking either sulphonylurea or Insulin who were enrolled in the study. 280 patients had no idea of the symptoms. 564 patients knew no more than three symptoms. Palpitation and sweating were the most commonly known 80% and experienced 65% symptoms. Hunger and epigastric discomfort were the next best known 73% and experienced 58% symptoms. Loss of consciousness was the next in the list in terms of knowledge 52% and experience 23%. Coldness of body 28%, severe weakness 24%, blurred vision 12%, abnormal behavior 12% and altered consciousness 6% were the next in the list of experience. Early morning headache, night terror and frequent awakening were the least known 3% and recognized1% symptoms. Abnormal behavior and altered consciousness were not known to any patient as a symptom. Of those who knew or experienced the symptoms, eating anything available was the most common response, only 35% responded by eating rapidly available food items like sugar, honey, candies, beverages, fruit juice or jams. 3% of patients even resorted to taking diet colas initially and only later took other food after waiting for some time. In the event of patient getting unconscious, 80% of the times attendants did not consider hypoglycemia initially at home at first such experience. Discussion: Patient must be properly educated about these symptoms before prescribing these agents and shall be repeatedly evaluated at each visit. Failing to recognize early and mild symptoms may lead to a terrifying experience.