NREMT Paramedic Practice

Which of the following statements about hypoglycemia is true?

1. It typically results in hyperactive behavior

2. Symptoms may mimic those of intoxication

3. It leads to high blood pressure

4. It is primarily caused by dehydration

The correct answer is: Symptoms may mimic those of intoxication

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can produce symptoms that strongly resemble those of intoxication. This is due to the brain's reliance on glucose as a primary energy source; when glucose levels drop significantly, neurological functions are impacted. Individuals may exhibit confusion, disorientation, slurred speech, and impaired motor coordination, all of which can be mistaken for the effects of alcohol intoxication. Hyperactive behavior is often associated with high blood sugar levels rather than low blood sugar. While dehydration can affect overall health, it is not a primary cause of hypoglycemia. Additionally, hypoglycemia does not lead to high blood pressure; rather, it can sometimes cause the opposite effect due to the body's response to low glucose levels and the subsequent release of adrenaline. These factors establish why the statement about symptoms mimicking those of intoxication is accurate in the context of hypoglycemia.