Experiencing a rapid heart rate, sweating, and shaking can be disorienting, leaving you wondering whether it’s anxiety or a more serious health issue. While anxiety may be the first suspect, these symptoms could also indicate dangerously low blood sugar, a condition that requires immediate attention.
Understanding the difference between anxiety and hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is critical because they share several symptoms. If left unaddressed, hypoglycemia can lead to severe health risks.
The Overlap Between Anxiety and Low Blood Sugar Symptoms
Low blood sugar occurs when blood glucose levels fall below normal. This condition is most commonly seen in individuals with diabetes who rely on medication to regulate their blood sugar levels. However, non-diabetic individuals, those who have undergone bariatric or metabolic surgery, or those with liver, kidney, or pancreatic disease can also experience hypoglycemia.
The challenge lies in the fact that the symptoms of low blood sugar—such as sweating, shaking, rapid heartbeat, and palpitations—mirror those of anxiety. As Dr. Akhil Shenoy, MD, an endocrinologist at Aeroflow Diabetes, explains, both conditions trigger the body’s fight-or-flight response. In the case of hypoglycemia, this response serves as a warning signal that the body is in distress.
More severe symptoms of low blood sugar include confusion, lethargy, irritability, loss of consciousness, and even seizures. These signs warrant immediate medical intervention.
How to Identify Low Blood Sugar vs. Anxiety—and What to Do About It
If you experience confusion or the sensation of fainting, Dr. Chhaya Makhija, MD, an endocrinologist, advises calling 911 immediately. Hypoglycemia can be life-threatening, and delaying medical care could have dire consequences.
For individuals with diabetes who experience mild symptoms, checking blood glucose levels can help distinguish between low blood sugar and anxiety. A reading below 70 mg/dL confirms hypoglycemia. In such cases, consuming 15 to 20 grams of simple carbohydrates—like orange juice or a candy bar—can raise blood sugar levels. It’s crucial to recheck your blood glucose after 10 to 15 minutes and seek medical attention if levels remain low.
In instances where anxiety is the cause, eating a snack with protein and complex carbohydrates may help ease symptoms. Deep breathing exercises can also help calm the body’s response and reduce heart rate.
When to See a Doctor
Frequent episodes of rapid heart rate, sweating, and shaking should not be ignored. Both Dr. Shenoy and Dr. Makhija recommend seeking medical advice to identify the underlying cause. For anxiety, treatment options may include therapy or medication. If low blood sugar is the culprit, adjustments to medications or lifestyle may be necessary.
Whether it’s anxiety or hypoglycemia, addressing these symptoms early is crucial for your well-being. By working with your healthcare provider to pinpoint the cause, you can take the necessary steps to restore your health and get back to feeling your best.
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