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Nocturnal convulsions and insulin-induced hypoglycaemia in diabetic patients
1Diabetic Department, Gartnavel General Hospital and Western Infirmary, Glasgow, UK.
Abstract:
Convulsions may occur as a consequence of insulin-induced hypoglycaemia. We report three patients with insulin-dependent diabetes, who presented with generalized tonic-clonic seizures associated with nocturnal hypoglycaemia. None of the patients had experienced hypoglycaemia during waking hours and the convulsions were mistakenly diagnosed as idiopathic epilepsy. Recognition of the possible hypoglycaemia aetiology of these convulsions permitted appropriate alteration of the insulin regimens with no recurrence of convulsions. In one case, the seizure was associated with bilateral fractures of the neck of the humerus. Unrecognized hypoglycaemia should be considered as a possible cause of convulsions in insulin-dependent diabetic patients.
Insights
Insulin-induced hypoglycemia can cause seizures in diabetic patients, often misdiagnosed as epilepsy. Adjusting insulin therapy can prevent these convulsions, highlighting the need to consider hypoglycemia as a cause.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Insulin-dependent diabetes requires careful management to prevent complications.
- Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is a common side effect of insulin therapy.
- Seizures can be a symptom of severe hypoglycemia.