Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Which complication is most commonly associated with a hypoglycemic crisis?

1. Seizures

2. Cardiac arrest

3. Dehydration

4. Coma

The correct answer is: Seizures

A hypoglycemic crisis occurs when an individual's blood glucose levels drop to dangerously low levels. This sudden decrease in glucose can have several neurological effects due to the brain's reliance on glucose as its primary energy source. Among the potential complications, seizures are particularly prevalent because the brain may not function properly without sufficient glucose, leading to altered mental states and potential seizural activity. Seizures can manifest in various forms, and their occurrence during a hypoglycemic event indicates significant brain dysfunction due to the metabolic disturbance. Addressing the hypoglycemia promptly is crucial to prevent further neurological deterioration, which could lead to more severe complications such as coma or even permanent brain damage if not treated in time. While other complications like cardiac arrest, dehydration, and coma can arise from more severe or prolonged hypoglycemic episodes or as secondary consequences, seizures specifically stand out as a direct and immediate neurological manifestation of rapid glucose depletion. Hence, recognizing seizures as a common complication in the context of hypoglycemic crises underscores the critical need for timely intervention.