Hypoglycemia and low blood pressure are two situations that are difficult to differentiate based on symptoms alone, as both can cause very similar symptoms, such as headache, dizziness and cold sweat. This differentiation can be even more difficult in people who have both blood pressure problems and diabetes.
If the person has not eaten for more than 3 or 4 hours, the symptoms are probably due to a decrease in blood sugar concentration, that is, hypoglycemia. Other symptoms that can help differentiate low blood pressure from hypoglycemia are:
- Low blood pressure symptoms: Dizziness, weakness, feeling faint, dark vision when standing up, dry mouth and drowsiness. See what the symptoms and possible causes of low blood pressure are;
- Symptoms of hypoglycemia: Dizziness, racing heart, hot flashes, cold sweat, paleness, tingling of lips and tongue, changes in mood and hunger, and may present loss of consciousness, fainting and even coma, in more serious cases. Find out what can cause hypoglycemia.

How to confirm
As some of the symptoms of hypoglycemia and low blood pressure are similar, it is necessary to carry out specific analyzes to differentiate the two situations, such as:
- Measure glucose: Blood glucose concentration is measured using a finger prick. The normal blood glucose value is up to 99 mg/dL, however, if this value is below 70 mg/dL it is indicative of hypoglycemia. See what the devices for measuring glucose are and how they work.
- Measure blood pressure: The normal blood pressure value is 120 x 80 mmHg, being indicative of low blood pressure when it is equal to or lower than 90 x 60 mmHg. If the pressure is normal and the symptoms are present, it may be hypoglycemia. Learn how to measure blood pressure.
In any case, it is recommended to see a general practitioner to assess the possible causes of hypoglycemia or low blood pressure and indicate the most appropriate treatment, if necessary.
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What to do in case of low blood pressure
In case of low blood pressure, it is important that the person sits or lies in a comfortable place and elevates their legs, which causes blood circulation in the brain to increase and, consequently, an increase in blood pressure. When the person starts to feel better, they can get up, but do so carefully and avoid making sudden, sudden movements. Also learn how to differentiate the symptoms of high blood pressure and low blood pressure.
What to do in case of hypoglycemia
In case of hypoglycemia, the person should sit down and eat foods rich in easily digestible carbohydrates, such as a glass of water with sugar or a glass of fresh orange juice, for example. After 10 to 15 minutes, it is important to evaluate the blood glucose concentration again, and eat more foods rich in carbohydrates, if the glucose concentration is still below 70 mg/dL.
If there is no increase in glucose concentration, even after consuming carbohydrates, or if you faint, you should immediately go to the hospital or call an ambulance by calling 192. Find out more about what to do in case of hypoglycemia.