Blood sugar rises and builds up in the blood. People with diabetes take insulin or oral medications to keep their blood sugar down. If a person with diabetes takes too much medication, misses meals, or doesn't eat enough food, the person can become hypoglycemic. Rarely, hypoglycemia can occur in people who do not have diabetes. Hypoglycemia can occur in early pregnancy .
People can also become hypoglycemic if they fast for a long time or exercise for an extended period.
People taking certain medications, such as beta-blockers or aspirin, may become hypoglycemic more easily. Sometimes people who are alcoholics or binge drinkers can become hypoglycemic. People with diabetes prevent hypoglycemia by frequently monitoring blood glucose levels and recognizing early symptoms of hypoglycemia. People who have diabetes can prevent hypoglycemia by keeping their blood sugar levels within their recommended range. They are trained to recognize when their blood sugar levels are dropping.