Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar levels can cause metabolic acidosis. This is because the body starts to break down muscles for energy when blood sugar levels drop. This process produces lactic acid, which builds up in the bloodstream and lowers the pH level. Diabetics or individuals with medical conditions that cause frequent episodes of low blood sugar must be aware of the potential dangers of metabolic acidosis and how to spot the signs.
There are a few different symptoms that one may experience if the blood sugar levels start to drop too low. These include feeling shaky or dizzy, sweating, having a rapid heartbeat, feeling hungry, and feeling tired or weak. It’s important to seek medical attention immediately when these symptoms appear, as metabolic acidosis can be extremely dangerous.
The best way to treat low blood sugar levels is to eat or drink something immediately to raise blood sugar levels back up. If there are no sugary food items on hand, eating something high in complex carbohydrates is also recommended. Some examples of complex carbohydrates include whole-grain bread, oatmeal, brown rice, and beans.