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Neonatal Hypoglycemia

Low blood sugar in the newborn is an emergency that can lead to brain damage.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Neonatal Hypoglycemia?

Neonatal hypoglycemia is a clinical or biochemical drop in blood glucose below the danger threshold in the newborn. In general values <40 mg/dL in the first 4 hours and <45 mg/dL thereafter are considered significant.

Risk groups include infants of diabetic mothers, SGA, LGA, premature babies, perinatal asphyxia, polycythemia, hypothermia and inborn errors of metabolism. Routine glucose monitoring is performed in these infants from birth.

Treatment of symptomatic hypoglycemia involves emergency IV dextrose bolus and maintenance infusion; in asymptomatic cases normoglycemia is achieved with early feeding (breast milk or formula). In refractory cases glucagon, corticosteroids and diazoxide may be considered.

Symptoms

Irritability and tremor
Poor feeding
Hypotonia and weak suck
Apnea and cyanosis
Sweating
Seizures

Risk Factors

Infant of diabetic mother
SGA and LGA infants
Prematurity
Perinatal asphyxia
Polycythemia
Inborn errors of metabolism

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When a newborn is irritable and feeding poorly
  • When tremor or shaking is observed
  • When apnea, cyanosis or seizures develop
  • For routine follow-up in at-risk groups
  • For post-discharge check

Treatment Methods

01
Frequent blood glucose monitoring
02
Early breastmilk or formula feeding
03
IV dextrose bolus and maintenance infusion
04
Glucagon and corticosteroids (in selected cases)
05
Investigation of underlying cause
06
Long-term neurological follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.