Internal Medicine
Causes of Low Blood Sugar
Révisé par l'équipe éditoriale médicale de JordanMedHub · 12/09/2026
En bref
Low blood sugar is most common in people treated for diabetes, but several other factors can cause it too — here's what to know.
Dans cet article
Low blood sugar happens when glucose in the bloodstream drops too low to properly fuel the body, most often as a side effect of diabetes treatment.
In People With Diabetes
- Insulin or certain oral medications — taking more than the body needs relative to food intake and activity is the most common cause
- Skipping or delaying a meal after taking insulin or medication
- Unplanned physical activity without adjusting food or medication
- Drinking alcohol, especially without eating
In People Without Diabetes
Less commonly, low blood sugar can occur due to certain medications, hormone deficiencies, some tumors that affect insulin production, heavy alcohol use, or after certain types of stomach surgery. This is far less common than diabetes-related hypoglycemia and usually needs specific medical evaluation to identify the cause.
Our symptoms of low blood sugar guide covers how to recognize it and what to do.
Avertissement
This guide is for general education only and does not diagnose or recommend treatment for any individual. Frequent low blood sugar episodes should be discussed with a doctor, since they may mean a medication dose needs adjusting.
Questions fréquentes
Can skipping a meal cause low blood sugar?
Yes, especially for people taking insulin or certain diabetes medications — skipping or delaying a meal after taking them is one of the most common causes.
Écrit par Équipe éditoriale médicale de JordanMedHub
Mis à jour 12/09/2026
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