Causes of Severe Hypoglycemia in Toddlers

Hypoglycemia usually occurs in adults and older children who have diabetes and is managed through diet. When hypoglycemia occurs in toddlers it can be far more severe and its causes range from stomach surgery to hormonal deficiencies. It is important to recognize the symptoms and promptly seek medical treatment.

The Facts

Hypoglycemia is a condition that occurs when blood sugar levels drop below normal. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness and mental confusion. Severe hypoglycemia can cause a person to pass out, slip into a coma and even die. Hypoglycemia usually occurs as a side effect of diabetes in older children and adults. When severe hypoglycemia occurs in toddlers, the condition is classified at either reactive or fasting. The causes can include deficiencies in enzyme or hormones, hyperinsulinism, tumors and medication.

Reactive Hypoglycemia

The causes of reactive hypoglycemia in toddlers are still under investigation. Hereditary fructose intolerance and other enzyme deficiencies can cause sever hypoglycemia. It can also be triggered by stomach surgery, that can trigger it. Unconfirmed theories include an extreme sensitivity to naturally occurring epinephrine in the body or deficiencies in glucagon production. Most physicians suggest following a careful diet of frequent small, balanced meals to counteract reactive hypoglycemia.

Hyperinsulinism

In cases of severe fasting hypoglycemia in toddlers and infants, doctors may check to see if hyperinsulinism is the cause. When a child's body produces excessive amounts of insulin, it can cause blood sugar levels to drop and trigger hypoglycemia. Hyperinsulinism is usually temporary. If it reoccurs, a medical specialist is needed to deal with this complex disorder.

Deficiencies

A deficiency in any of the hormones that work to counter-regulate insulin can trigger fasting hypoglycemia in a toddler. This includes deficiencies in cortisol and/or growth hormone. Deficiencies in glucagon and epinephrine can also cause hypoglycemia, as can a lack of pituitary or adrenal hormones. To treat a toddler suffering from these deficiencies, a doctor may begin hormone replacement therapy.

Other

Fasting hypoglycemia in toddlers can have other causes such as starvation and certain medications, including aspirin and quinine. Diseases that interfere with the function of the liver, kidneys or the heart can cause severe hypoglycemia, as will endocrine disorders. Tumors in the pancreas that produce insulin have the same effect as hyperinsulinism and also cause hypoglycemia. A child who has been infected with sepsis also may experience it.