Early signs of hypoglycemia are the following?

Appeared in: PGIMER NO - 2020

Explanation

The correct option lists the classic early warning signs of hypoglycemia.
These symptoms—shakiness (tremor), sweating (diaphoresis), nervousness (anxiety), and dizziness—are known as autonomic or neurogenic symptoms.
They are caused by the body's release of hormones like epinephrine (adrenaline) when blood glucose levels drop, typically below 70 mg/dL.
This response is the body's alarm system, signaling the need to ingest carbohydrates before more severe brain-related (neuroglycopenic) symptoms develop.

Option A: Weight gain, constipation, and diarrhea are gastrointestinal issues and are not characteristic acute or early signs of a hypoglycemic episode.
Option C: This option is incorrect because it includes polyuria (excessive urination), which is a hallmark sign of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), not hypoglycemia. The body tries to excrete excess glucose through urine.
Option D: This option is incorrect because a correct choice is available. Option B accurately lists the well-established early signs of hypoglycemia.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Recognition of early signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Early recognition of hypoglycemia is a critical nursing skill to prevent progression to severe neuroglycopenic complications like seizures, coma, and brain damage.
Nurses must educate patients on these early signs so they can self-treat promptly using the '15-15 Rule': consume 15 grams of a fast-acting carbohydrate, wait 15 minutes, and recheck blood glucose.
Patient safety is paramount. A common mnemonic for hypoglycemia is 'cool and clammy, need some candy,' which helps in quick identification at the bedside.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key concept in the question stem: 'early signs of hypoglycemia'.
Recall the pathophysiology of hypoglycemia. The body's first response is autonomic (adrenergic and cholinergic), which produces warning signs.
Evaluate each option based on this knowledge.
Option A lists GI symptoms, which are not typical for acute hypoglycemia.
Option B lists shakiness, sweating, and nervousness, which are classic autonomic symptoms.
Option C includes 'polyuria,' a key sign of the opposite condition, hyperglycemia. This makes the entire option incorrect.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 2 p. 1136-1138

E6 Medicine Macleod Clinical Examination 15e p. 238-240

E6 Medicine Davidson Principles Practice 24e p. 755-757

Practise the full PGIMER NO - 2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.