Feeling shaky or jittery between meals
Overview
Feeling shaky or jittery between meals is a common symptom that occurs when blood sugar levels drop, typically 2-4 hours after eating. This trembling or nervous sensation often indicates hypoglycemia and may be accompanied by weakness, sweating, or difficulty concentrating.
Common Causes
This feeling commonly occurs when blood sugar levels drop between meals, especially if you've gone several hours without eating or had a meal high in simple carbohydrates that caused a quick spike and subsequent dip. Consuming too much caffeine, being dehydrated, or feeling stressed or anxious can also trigger these sensations. Skipping meals entirely or eating meals that lack protein and healthy fats may make you more prone to experiencing these episodes.
Severity Levels
Mild: You notice occasional light trembling or a slightly jittery feeling that comes and goes, usually relieved quickly by eating a snack or meal.
Moderate: You experience regular episodes of noticeable shaking or jitteriness that interfere with daily activities and require you to stop what you're doing to eat something.
Severe: You have frequent, intense shaking episodes that significantly disrupt your daily life, may cause anxiety or panic, and don't always respond quickly to food intake.
Medical Attention
Seek medical attention if shakiness between meals occurs frequently, is severe, or doesn't improve after eating a snack. Contact your doctor if you experience fainting, confusion, or difficulty thinking clearly along with the jittery feelings. If you have diabetes and these episodes become more common or intense, consult your healthcare provider to review your medication and meal plan.
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