Low Blood Sugar and Shortness of Breath Explained
Know what the connection is between low blood sugar and shortness of breath. What is it, what causes it and its symptoms? Learn how to manage low blood sugar and breathing trouble.
Written by Dr. Mohammed Kamran
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 31st Jul, 2025
Introduction
Feeling dizzy, shaky, or suddenly out of breath can be scary, especially if you don’t know why it’s happening. If you’ve ever experienced low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) along with shortness of breath, you might wonder if the two are connected. The answer is yes. Low blood sugar can sometimes cause breathing difficulties, and understanding why can help you manage it better.
In this article, we’ll explain:
What is low blood sugar?
How can it lead to shortness of breath?
Common symptoms to watch for
What causes low blood sugar?
How to prevent and manage it?
Let’s dive in!
What Is Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)?
Blood sugar (glucose) is your body’s main energy source. When levels drop too low (usually below 70 mg/dL), your body doesn’t get enough fuel, leading to symptoms like:
Shakiness
Sweating
Dizziness
Confusion
Weakness
Hunger
Fast heartbeat
Severe hypoglycemia can even cause fainting or seizures if not treated quickly.
Can Low Blood Sugar Cause Shortness of Breath?
Yes. While not everyone with low blood sugar experiences breathing trouble, some people do. Here’s why:
1. Your Body’s Stress Response – When blood sugar drops, your body releases stress hormones (like adrenaline) to raise it. These hormones can make your heart beat faster and cause rapid, shallow breathing, making you feel breathless.
2. Lack of Energy for Muscles – Your breathing muscles (diaphragm and lungs) need glucose to work properly. If glucose levels are too low, they may not function efficiently, leading to difficulty breathing.
3. Anxiety or Panic – Low blood sugar can trigger anxiety-like symptoms, including hyperventilation (breathing too fast), which makes you feel short of breath.
Consult a Top Diabetic doctor
Other Symptoms to Watch For
Besides shortness of breath, low blood sugar can cause:
Blurred vision
Headache
Irritability
Nausea
Pale skin
Tingling lips or fingers
If you notice these signs, check your blood sugar immediately if possible.
What Causes Low Blood Sugar?
Common reasons include:
Too Much Insulin or Diabetes Medication – Taking more than needed can drop blood sugar too low.
Skipping or Delaying Meals – Not eating enough carbs can lead to a sugar crash.
Excessive Exercise – Physical activity burns glucose, sometimes more than expected.
Alcohol Without Food – Drinking on an empty stomach can lower blood sugar.
Certain Medical Conditions – Liver disease, kidney disorders, or hormonal imbalances can contribute.
How to Manage Low Blood Sugar and Breathing Trouble
1. Treat Low Blood Sugar Quickly
If you feel symptoms:
Eat 15 grams of fast-acting carbs (glucose tablets, fruit juice, honey, or regular soda).
Wait 15 minutes, then check blood sugar again.
If still low, repeat until levels stabilise.
2. Prevent Future Episodes
Follow the instructions below:
Eat Regular Meals – Include balanced carbs, protein, and healthy fats.
Monitor Blood Sugar – Check levels frequently if you’re diabetic.
Adjust Medications – Work with your doctor to avoid overdosing on insulin or diabetes meds.
Carry Snacks – Keep glucose tablets or a small juice box handy.
3. When to Seek Emergency Help
If low blood sugar causes:
Severe confusion
Loss of consciousness
Seizures
Breathing that doesn’t improve after treatment
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you frequently experience low blood sugar or unexplained shortness of breath, consult a doctor to:
Rule out underlying conditions (like diabetes, heart, or lung issues).
Adjust medications if needed.
Get personalised advice on managing symptoms.
If you need expert guidance, you can book a consultation with an Apollo24|7 doctor for a thorough check-up and tailored treatment plan.
Final Thoughts
Low blood sugar and shortness of breath can be linked, especially if your body reacts strongly to glucose drops. Recognising the signs early and treating them can prevent complications. By eating regularly, monitoring your levels, and staying prepared, you can keep your blood sugar stable and breathe easier.
Consult a Top Diabetic doctor
Consult a Top Diabetic doctor
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