What are the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia?

The signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia include a rapid onset of altered mental status (AMS), a rapid pulse, pallor, and dizziness. This is because when blood sugar levels drop significantly, the body reacts quickly as glucose is the primary energy source for the brain and other vital organs. A decrease in glucose can lead to confusion, irritability, or loss of consciousness, which reflects in the altered mental status. The body's response to low blood sugar may also include symptoms like a rapid heartbeat (due to the release of adrenaline), pallor (as blood flow may be redirected), and dizziness from decreased energy supply to the brain. Recognizing these symptoms promptly is crucial in providing timely treatment for hypoglycemia, such as administering glucose or other fast-acting carbohydrate sources.

The other options represent symptoms of different conditions: increased thirst and frequent urination are typical of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), extreme fatigue and hair loss can be linked to various conditions but are not specific to hypoglycemia, and working too hard resulting in exhaustion is a general statement and doesn't directly identify the physiological reactions associated with low blood sugar levels.