Medical Emergencies · single question
Which of the following is a clinical sign of HYPOGLYCEMIA?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Mental confusion
Hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) deprives the brain of glucose → neurological dysfunction. Signs include: mental confusion, dizziness, weakness, trembling, diaphoresis (sweating), pallor, tachycardia (sympathetic response), and in severe cases, seizures/loss of consciousness. Treatment: oral glucose (orange juice, sugar) if conscious; IV dextrose or IM glucagon if unconscious. NOT bradycardia (tachycardia occurs), NOT xerostomia.
- A. Incorrect. Bradycardia is NOT a sign of hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia triggers a sympathetic response causing TACHYCARDIA (not bradycardia).
- B. Incorrect. While agitation can occur early in hypoglycemia, 'hyperactivity' is not a classic sign. The progression is: confusion → stupor → unconsciousness.
- C. Incorrect. Xerostomia (dry mouth) is not associated with hypoglycemia. It is a side effect of anticholinergic medications.
- D. CORRECT. Mental confusion is a key neurological sign of hypoglycemia — the brain depends entirely on glucose and is first affected when blood glucose drops.
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