Driving with Low Blood Sugar: An Unfamiliar Hazard

Although most people know it’s not safe to drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, people drive on empty stomachs all the time. However, for some drivers, both situations can be equally dangerous, as getting behind the wheel with low blood sugar can be an extremely hazardous decision.
Hypoglycemia occurs when the level of glucose in the blood drops below normal. Depending on the severity of this drop, symptoms vary. However, some of hypoglycemia’s common indicators can include headache, dizziness, sweating, hunger and tremors—among other things.
In severe cases, seizures and even loss of consciousness can occur. Doctors liken this loss of consciousness to what many refer to as a “blackout” that accompanies alcohol and drug overuse. This is why hypoglycemia that occurs while a person is driving can be so dangerous. The person loses all perception of control and has the potential to not only harm themselves, but other drivers and passengers—just like a drunk driver.