Which of the following is a potential sign of severe hypoglycemia?

A rapid heartbeat, also known as tachycardia, can be a significant indicator of severe hypoglycemia. In cases of low blood sugar, the body experiences a stress response, leading to the release of adrenaline (epinephrine) to counteract the low glucose levels. This release of adrenaline stimulates the heart to beat faster in an attempt to ensure that enough blood — and therefore glucose — reaches vital organs.

Other signs of severe hypoglycemia can include confusion, irritability, sweating, tremors, and in extreme cases, loss of consciousness or seizures. While blurred vision can also occur with hypoglycemia, it is not as commonly associated with severe cases as the physical response of a rapid heartbeat. Increased thirst and decreased urination are typically not acute signs of hypoglycemia, but rather indicators of dehydration or other underlying conditions. Thus, rapid heartbeat is a clear physiological reaction that points to the body struggling to manage low blood sugar levels effectively.