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Non-Diabetic Hypoglycaemia

A dangerous fall in blood glucose in people without diabetes.

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.

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

What is Non-Diabetic Hypoglycaemia?

Non-diabetic hypoglycaemia is the development of symptomatic low blood glucose in a person without diabetes that resolves with glucose administration (Whipple's triad). It is divided into fasting and postprandial (reactive) hypoglycaemia.

The most important cause of fasting hypoglycaemia is insulinoma (an insulin-secreting pancreatic tumour). Exogenous insulin or sulfonylurea use (factitious hypoglycaemia), adrenal insufficiency, severe liver disease and non-islet cell tumours are other causes.

A 72-hour fast is the gold standard for diagnosing insulinoma. During hypoglycaemia, insulin, C-peptide and proinsulin levels are measured to distinguish endogenous from exogenous insulin.

Symptoms

Sweating, tremor and palpitations (adrenergic symptoms)
Hunger
Confusion and difficulty concentrating (neuroglycopenic symptoms)
Blurred vision
Seizures and loss of consciousness in severe cases
Resolution of symptoms with food

Risk Factors

MEN 1 syndrome (predisposes to insulinoma)
After gastric bypass surgery (dumping syndrome)
Alcohol use
Adrenal insufficiency
Severe liver or kidney failure

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • If recurrent hypoglycaemic episodes occur
  • If fasting-induced confusion or altered consciousness is present
  • If Whipple's triad can be documented
  • If a seizure or loss of consciousness has occurred

Treatment Methods

01
Insulinoma: surgical excision (curative)
02
Reactive hypoglycaemia: low-glycaemic-index, frequent and small meals
03
Diazoxide (preoperatively or in inoperable insulinoma)
04
Everolimus or sunitinib (in metastatic insulinoma)
05
Emergency glucagon kit (for patients at risk of severe hypoglycaemia)

Which Department to Visit?

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

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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.