What is hypoglycemia primarily characterized by?

Hypoglycemia is primarily characterized by a deficiency of glucose in the bloodstream. It occurs when blood sugar levels fall below the normal range, typically defined as less than 70 mg/dL. Symptoms of hypoglycemia can include shakiness, sweating, confusion, irritability, and in severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness. This condition is especially critical for individuals with diabetes who may experience low blood sugar due to insulin therapy or other medications that increase insulin levels.

Having excess glucose in the blood refers to hyperglycemia, which is the opposite condition of hypoglycemia and usually associated with uncontrolled diabetes. Normal glucose levels indicate the absence of any glucose deficiency or excess, while uncontrolled glucose levels can refer to erratic fluctuations between high and low without stability, further distinguishing them from the specific, low level characteristic of hypoglycemia.