Can lupus cause your blood sugar to drop?
Yes, lupus can contribute to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in several ways. A MyLupusTeam member shared, "I have always had bouts of low blood sugar, but I am not diabetic."
Here's how lupus might affect your blood sugar:
Autoantibodies: In rare cases, lupus can cause your immune Show Full Answer
Can lupus cause your blood sugar to drop?
Yes, lupus can contribute to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in several ways. A MyLupusTeam member shared, "I have always had bouts of low blood sugar, but I am not diabetic."
Here's how lupus might affect your blood sugar:
Autoantibodies: In rare cases, lupus can cause your immune system to produce autoantibodies that interfere with insulin receptors, affecting how your body regulates blood glucose.
Antimalarial medications: Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) can rarely cause hypoglycemia as a side effect. As one member noted, "I have noticed hypoglycemia symptoms since starting Plaquenil."
Corticosteroid withdrawal: If you've been taking steroids like prednisone long-term and stop suddenly, it can cause low blood sugar. These medications should always be tapered slowly.
Lupus complications: Severe kidney or liver problems from lupus can make it harder for your body to regulate blood sugar levels. What can you eat or drink to bring blood sugar up?
If you're experiencing low blood sugar symptoms like dizziness or shakiness, you can treat it by consuming 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates.
Quick options include:
* 4 ounces of nondiet soda
* A banana and freshly squeezed orange juice (as one MyLupusTeam member does)
* Glucose tablets or gel (follow package instructions)
These simple carbohydrates digest quickly and can give you a fast energy boost to raise your blood sugar.
It's important to talk with your doctor if you're experiencing frequent blood sugar drops. They may want you to monitor your levels with a glucose monitor as part of your lupus care.
January 16
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