Which term describes abnormally low blood sugar due to excess insulin?

• A. Hyperparathyroidism
• B. Pancreatitis
• C. Hypoglycemia
• D. Hyperglycemia

Answer: (C)

Abnormally low blood sugar caused by too much insulin is hypoglycemia. Insulin lowers blood glucose by helping cells take in glucose and by signaling the liver to stop releasing glucose. When there’s more insulin than the body’s glucose supply can handle—such as taking too much insulin, skipping meals, or exercising vigorously—the circulating glucose falls below normal. Recognize it by symptoms like sweating, shakiness, confusion, or fainting, and confirm with a blood glucose check. If the person is awake and able to swallow, give a fast-acting carbohydrate and recheck after about 15 minutes. If they’re unconscious or unable to swallow, seek emergency help and administer glucagon if it’s been prescribed. The other terms refer to different issues: hyperparathyroidism involves excess parathyroid hormone affecting calcium; pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas; hyperglycemia means high blood sugar, the opposite of this condition.