Neonatal Hypoglycaemia

Neonatal hypoglycaemia is a condition in which a newborn's blood sugar level drops below the normal range shortly after birth, occurring because the baby's body is adjusting from receiving a continuous glucose supply through the placenta to relying on intermittent feeding and its own glucose regulation. It is particularly common in certain higher-risk infants, such as those born to mothers with diabetes, premature babies, and those who are unusually small or large for gestational age. While often transient and easily corrected with feeding, prolonged or severe hypoglycaemia can affect brain function and requires prompt monitoring and treatment in at-risk newborns.

The most common symptoms include: Jitteriness or tremors; poor feeding or weak sucking; lethargy or excessive sleepiness; irritability. Early recognition is key to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.

No, Neonatal Hypoglycaemia is not contagious. It cannot spread through casual contact. However, certain risk factors and genetic predispositions may increase susceptibility.

Treatment options include: Mild cases are typically managed with early and frequent breastfeeding or formula feeding to help stabilize blood sugar levels; along with close monitoring of glucose levels in at-risk infants. More significant or persistent hypoglycaemia is treated with intravenous glucose administration in a hospital setting until the baby's blood sugar stabilizes and feeding is well established. Identifying and monitoring infants at higher risk allows for proactive screening and prompt treatment before symptoms become severe.. Treatment should always be guided by a qualified Neonatology specialist. Do not self-medicate.

While Neonatal Hypoglycaemia cannot always be fully prevented, several measures can reduce risk: Early and frequent feeding in the first hours after birth; particularly for at-risk infants; routine blood sugar screening for newborns with known risk factors such as maternal diabetes or prematurity.

Consult a Neonatology specialist if symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen despite home care, or significantly affect your daily activities. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.