Sudden Dizziness and Sweating: Is It Low Blood Sugar?

Low blood sugar!?

While at work, I suddenly experienced dizziness and profuse sweating (more than sweating under the sun in summer), followed by a feeling of cold that lasted for almost half an hour.
I've had these episodes since high school, although they occur infrequently.
Typically, when this happens, eating chocolate or sweets quickly alleviates the symptoms.
I initially thought it might be related to low blood sugar, but sometimes I experience these symptoms after meals or eating chocolate as well.
Moreover, if it were low blood sugar, I would expect my condition to worsen if I didn't eat, but there was one instance where I went without food for about 10-15 minutes, and then suddenly felt a bit better.
I'm unsure what might be causing these symptoms.

SF, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/20

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

Experiencing dizziness after eating or consuming chocolate does not necessarily indicate hypoglycemia.
Dizziness can be accompanied by autonomic nervous system symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, sweating, or palpitations.
Additionally, it is important to be cautious of other issues that may cause dizziness and sweating, such as abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
In this case, it is advisable to consult a neurologist for a face-to-face evaluation and to arrange for further testing.

Reply Date: 2016/09/20

More Info

Experiencing sudden dizziness and excessive sweating can be concerning, especially when these symptoms have been recurring since high school. Your description suggests a possible connection to blood sugar levels, but there are several factors to consider that could contribute to your symptoms.

Firstly, it is important to understand that dizziness and sweating can be symptoms of hypoglycemia, which is a condition characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels. When blood sugar drops, the body releases adrenaline, which can cause sweating, shaking, and a feeling of dizziness. The fact that you find relief after consuming chocolate or sweet foods supports the idea that your symptoms may be related to low blood sugar. However, it is also noteworthy that you experience these symptoms even after eating meals, which complicates the picture.

There are several potential explanations for your symptoms:
1. Reactive Hypoglycemia: This condition occurs when blood sugar levels drop after eating, often due to an overproduction of insulin. After consuming carbohydrates, your body may release too much insulin, leading to a rapid drop in blood sugar levels. This could explain why you feel better after eating sweets, as they provide a quick source of glucose.

2. Anxiety or Panic Attacks: Dizziness and sweating can also be symptoms of anxiety or panic attacks. If you experience stress or anxiety in certain situations, your body may react with these physical symptoms. This could explain why you feel dizzy and sweaty at work, especially if it is a stressful environment.

3. Dehydration or Electrolyte Imbalance: Excessive sweating can lead to dehydration, which can cause dizziness. If you are not drinking enough fluids, especially during hot weather or after physical activity, this could contribute to your symptoms. Additionally, an imbalance of electrolytes (such as sodium and potassium) can also lead to dizziness and sweating.

4. Vasovagal Syncope: This is a common cause of fainting and can occur when the body overreacts to certain triggers, such as stress, pain, or prolonged standing. It can cause a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to dizziness and sweating.

5. Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as thyroid disorders, adrenal insufficiency, or even certain neurological conditions could also manifest with similar symptoms. It is essential to rule out these possibilities with a healthcare professional.

Given that you have experienced these symptoms intermittently for years, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend tests to check your blood sugar levels, thyroid function, and possibly an evaluation for anxiety or other underlying conditions. Keeping a symptom diary, noting when the episodes occur, what you were doing, and what you ate beforehand can also provide valuable information for your healthcare provider.

In summary, while low blood sugar is a plausible explanation for your symptoms, it is essential to consider other potential causes. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional will help determine the underlying issue and guide appropriate management strategies. Remember, it is always better to seek medical advice when experiencing concerning symptoms, especially if they are recurrent or worsening.

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