If you or a loved one has diabetes, you might be wondering: Can diabetes cause seizures? The short answer is yes, diabetes can lead to seizures, mainly due to extreme blood sugar fluctuations—either too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia).
Seizures are serious medical events where the brain’s electrical activity becomes abnormal. While they are often linked to epilepsy, diabetes-related seizures occur due to changes in blood sugar levels that affect brain function.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- How diabetes can cause seizures
- The symptoms of a diabetic seizure
- Risk factors that increase seizure likelihood
- How to prevent and manage diabetic seizures
- What to do if someone has a seizure due to diabetes
Let’s dive in!
Understanding Diabetes and Blood Sugar Regulation
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes glucose (blood sugar). There are two main types:
- Type 1 Diabetes: The body doesn’t produce insulin.
- Type 2 Diabetes: The body doesn’t use insulin properly.
Insulin helps regulate blood sugar, keeping it in a healthy range. When diabetes is not managed well, blood sugar can swing too high or too low, causing dangerous complications, including diabetic seizures.
How Diabetes Can Cause Seizures
Diabetes-related seizures typically occur due to severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or severe hyperglycemia (high blood sugar with complications). Let’s break them down.
1. Hypoglycemia-Induced Seizures (Low Blood Sugar)
Hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop below 70 mg/dL. The brain relies on glucose for energy, and when levels become too low, it can lead to neurological problems, including seizures.
Causes of Hypoglycemia in Diabetes
- Too much insulin (e.g., from an insulin injection)
- Skipping meals or prolonged fasting
- Intense exercise without proper food intake
- Alcohol consumption, especially on an empty stomach
- Certain diabetes medications (e.g., sulfonylureas)
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia Before a Seizure
Before a seizure happens, a person with dangerously low blood sugar may experience:
- Confusion and disorientation
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Shakiness
- Blurred vision
- Slurred speech
- Fatigue
- Sudden mood changes
If blood sugar continues to drop, it can lead to loss of consciousness and a seizure.
2. Hyperglycemia-Induced Seizures (High Blood Sugar & Ketoacidosis)
Hyperglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels rise above 180 mg/dL. If untreated, extreme hyperglycemia can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS)—both of which can cause seizures.
Causes of Hyperglycemia in Diabetes
- Missed insulin doses or medication
- Eating too many high-carb foods
- Infections or illness
- Physical or emotional stress
- Undiagnosed or uncontrolled diabetes
How Hyperglycemia Leads to Seizures
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): When blood sugar is extremely high, the body breaks down fat for energy, producing ketones. A buildup of ketones leads to acidic blood, which can cause dehydration, confusion, and eventually seizures.
- Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS): This happens when high blood sugar causes severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, leading to brain dysfunction and seizures.
Risk Factors That Increase Seizure Likelihood
Not everyone with diabetes will experience seizures, but certain factors increase the risk:
Uncontrolled diabetes – Frequent highs and lows increase seizure risk. History of severe hypoglycemia – If you’ve had low blood sugar episodes before, you may be more prone to seizures. Skipping meals or taking incorrect insulin doses – Poor management increases risk. Alcohol consumption – Alcohol can cause delayed hypoglycemia, especially at night. Infections, fevers, or illnesses – These can worsen blood sugar swings. Lack of diabetes education – Not knowing how to manage blood sugar properly can lead to dangerous situations.
Signs & Symptoms of a Diabetic Seizure
A diabetic seizure can happen suddenly. Here are common signs:
Uncontrolled jerking movements (convulsions) Loss of consciousness Stiffening of the body Excessive sweating Foaming at the mouth Rapid heartbeat Unresponsiveness
A diabetic seizure occurs when extreme blood sugar levels—either too low (hypoglycemia) or too high (hyperglycemia)—disrupt normal brain function. These seizures can be frightening and should always be treated as a medical emergency. Recognizing the early warning signs can help prevent severe complications or even death.
Below is a detailed breakdown of each symptom and what happens in the body during a diabetic seizure.
1. Uncontrollable Jerking Movements (Convulsions)
Convulsions occur when the brain’s electrical activity becomes chaotic, leading to involuntary muscle contractions. These movements are often rhythmic and forceful, affecting the arms, legs, and sometimes the entire body.
Why It Happens:
- The brain needs glucose to function properly. Severe hypoglycemia deprives neurons of their energy source, leading to electrical misfiring.
- If blood sugar is extremely high, the brain may swell due to dehydration (as seen in hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state, HHS), causing abnormal nerve activity.
- The body responds by sending rapid, uncontrolled signals to the muscles, causing them to contract and relax rapidly (convulsions).
What It Looks Like:
- The person may fall suddenly to the ground.
- Arms and legs twitch violently in a jerking motion.
- Muscles tense up and release repeatedly.
- The person may make involuntary noises or grunts due to air being forced out of the lungs.
If convulsions last longer than 5 minutes, it could indicate status epilepticus, a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate medical intervention.
2. Loss of Consciousness or Unresponsiveness
During a diabetic seizure, the brain temporarily shuts down, leading to loss of consciousness or a state of confusion where the person does not respond to their surroundings.
Why It Happens:
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): The brain is starved of glucose, causing neurons to stop functioning properly.
- High blood sugar (hyperglycemia/DKA): The toxic buildup of ketones can cause severe dehydration, leading to brain dysfunction and eventual unconsciousness.
What It Looks Like:
- The person may collapse suddenly and appear as if they are in a deep sleep.
- Their eyes may be open but unfocused.
- If they are awake, they may seem dazed, confused, or unable to respond to questions.
- In extreme cases, they may stop breathing or become completely unresponsive.
If left untreated, prolonged unconsciousness can result in brain damage or coma.
3. Foaming at the Mouth
Foaming at the mouth can occur in severe seizures, usually due to excessive salivation and involuntary jaw contractions.
Why It Happens:
- The seizure causes the mouth and facial muscles to tighten and spasm, preventing the person from swallowing their saliva.
- Air passing through the mouth while saliva builds up creates a frothy, foamy appearance.
- If the seizure lasts too long, saliva can mix with stomach acid, creating a foamy substance.
What It Looks Like:
- Bubbles or foam-like saliva coming from the mouth.
- The person may appear to be gagging or struggling to breathe.
- Sometimes, they may bite their tongue, causing blood to mix with the foam (appearing pink or red).
Important Warning: Do not try to put anything in the person’s mouth to stop foaming. This could lead to choking or suffocation.
4. Rapid Breathing or Gasping for Air
Severe diabetic seizures may cause irregular breathing patterns, including rapid, shallow breaths or gasping.
Why It Happens:
- In diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), the body tries to remove excess acid (ketones) by breathing faster, known as Kussmaul breathing.
- Low blood sugar can cause oxygen deprivation in the brain, triggering an automatic gasping response.
- Seizures can also interfere with normal breathing rhythms, making it harder for the person to take in air.
What It Looks Like:
- The person may breathe very fast or take deep, labored breaths.
- Their chest may rise and fall irregularly.
- In severe cases, breathing may stop completely, requiring immediate CPR or rescue breaths.
If breathing stops for more than 30 seconds, seek emergency help immediately.
5. Sweating Excessively
Sweating (also called diaphoresis) is a classic early sign of a diabetic seizure, especially one triggered by hypoglycemia.
Why It Happens:
- The body’s “fight or flight” system (sympathetic nervous system) is activated when blood sugar drops too low.
- Adrenaline is released, causing the sweat glands to overproduce sweat.
- In hyperglycemic seizures, dehydration can lead to sweating as the body struggles to cool itself down.
What It Looks Like:
- The person may be soaked in sweat, even if the environment is cool.
- Their face, neck, and hands may appear damp.
- They may feel cold and clammy to the touch.
Excessive sweating is a warning sign. If someone with diabetes suddenly starts sweating profusely without an obvious reason, they should check their blood sugar immediately.
6. Rigid or Stiff Body Posture
Instead of full convulsions, some diabetic seizures cause tonic seizures, where the body becomes stiff and immobile.
Why It Happens:
- The seizure causes sudden, intense muscle contractions that lock the person’s body in place.
- The brain’s motor control signals misfire, causing the entire body to become rigid and stiff.
What It Looks Like:
- The person falls suddenly without warning.
- Their arms, legs, and neck may become stiff and straight.
- They may hold their breath for a few seconds before gasping for air.
- The episode usually lasts for a few seconds to a minute.
If a tonic seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, call 911 immediately.
Recognizing Early Warning Signs Can Save Lives
A diabetic seizure is a serious medical emergency. Recognizing these key symptoms early and acting quickly can prevent life-threatening complications.
Here’s what you can do if you notice these signs in yourself or others:
If you feel warning signs: Eat fast-acting sugar (juice, candy, glucose tablets) immediately. If you see someone having a seizure:
- Lay them on their side to prevent choking.
- Do not restrain them or put anything in their mouth.
- Call 911 immediately if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or if the person does not wake up.
- If unconscious due to low blood sugar, administer glucagon (if available).
Understanding these signs and symptoms can save a life! Always act fast and seek medical help if needed. 
What To Do If Someone Has a Diabetic Seizure
If someone is having a diabetic seizure, follow these emergency steps:
Step 1: Ensure Safety
- Gently lay the person on their side to prevent choking.
- Remove any objects that could cause injury.
- Do not put anything in their mouth.
Step 2: Call for Emergency Help
- Dial 911 or seek immediate medical attention.
Step 3: Check Blood Sugar (If Possible)
- If the person is conscious and can swallow, give glucose gel, juice, or candy.
- If the person is unconscious, do NOT force food or drink.
Step 4: Administer Emergency Glucagon (For Hypoglycemia)
- If the seizure is due to low blood sugar and glucagon is available, inject it immediately.
Step 5: Wait and Comfort the Person
- Once the seizure stops, the person may be confused or drowsy.
- Stay with them until help arrives.
Prevention Tips: How to Avoid Diabetic Seizures
Preventing diabetic seizures is all about managing blood sugar levels effectively. Whether caused by low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), seizures can often be avoided with proper planning, awareness, and lifestyle adjustments.
Let’s break down each prevention tip in detail.
Monitor Blood Sugar Regularly – Keep Levels Stable
Why It’s Important:
- Fluctuating blood sugar increases the risk of seizures.
- Low blood sugar (below 70 mg/dL) can cause hypoglycemic seizures.
- Extremely high blood sugar (above 300 mg/dL) can lead to ketoacidosis or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS), both of which can cause seizures.
How to Monitor Effectively:
Use a Blood Glucose Meter – Test at key times (before meals, before/after exercise, bedtime). Use a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) – Provides real-time readings and alerts for dangerous highs or lows. Track Blood Sugar Trends – Recognizing patterns helps adjust food, insulin, and activities.
Keeping blood sugar between 70-180 mg/dL (or as advised by your doctor) reduces seizure risk.
Eat Balanced Meals – Avoid Skipping Meals or Fasting for Too Long
Why It’s Important:
- Skipping meals can cause blood sugar to drop too low, leading to hypoglycemia.
- Fasting or irregular eating patterns make it harder to predict insulin needs.
- A consistent eating schedule keeps glucose levels stable.
How to Eat for Blood Sugar Stability:
Eat every 3-4 hours – Prevents sudden blood sugar drops. Include protein, healthy fats, and fiber – Slows sugar absorption and maintains steady energy. Avoid high-sugar snacks alone – They cause spikes and crashes.
Example of a Balanced Meal:
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, whole grain toast, and berries.
Lunch: Grilled chicken, quinoa, and steamed vegetables.
Snack: Apple with peanut butter.
Dinner: Salmon, roasted sweet potatoes, and greens.
Consistent, nutrient-dense meals help keep blood sugar in a safe range.
Take Medications Correctly – Follow Your Insulin or Medication Schedule
Why It’s Important:
- Missing insulin or oral diabetes medications can lead to severe hyperglycemia.
- Taking too much insulin or not adjusting doses for meals can cause dangerous hypoglycemia.
How to Stay on Track:
Set Medication Reminders – Use phone alarms or pill organizers. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions – Don’t adjust doses without professional advice. Understand Your Medications – Some diabetes drugs (like sulfonylureas) carry a higher seizure risk due to hypoglycemia.
Taking medications properly reduces sudden glucose swings and keeps the brain functioning normally.
Limit Alcohol Consumption – Avoid Drinking on an Empty Stomach
Why It’s Important:
- Alcohol lowers blood sugar hours after drinking, increasing nighttime hypoglycemia risk.
- Mixing alcohol with insulin or diabetes meds can cause dangerous blood sugar drops.
- Drunkenness can mask hypoglycemia symptoms, delaying treatment.
Safe Drinking Tips for Diabetics:
Never drink on an empty stomach – Always eat carbs with alcohol. Avoid binge drinking – It can cause prolonged low blood sugar overnight. Monitor blood sugar before and after drinking – Be alert for delayed drops. Stick to low-sugar drinks – Avoid sugary cocktails or sweet wines.
Best Practice: If you drink, always carry glucose tablets in case of emergency.
Exercise Safely – Check Blood Sugar Before and After Workouts
Why It’s Important:
- Exercise lowers blood sugar, but if not managed properly, it can cause hypoglycemia-induced seizures.
- Intense workouts burn glucose quickly, making it hard to predict blood sugar changes.
How to Exercise Without Triggering Seizures:
Check blood sugar before exercising – If it’s below 100 mg/dL, eat a small snack. Carry glucose tablets or a snack – Prevents sudden lows during workouts. Monitor sugar after exercise – Some people experience delayed hypoglycemia hours later. Stay hydrated – Dehydration can cause blood sugar fluctuations.
Best Exercise Choices: Walking, yoga, strength training, or moderate cardio. Avoid high-intensity workouts without proper glucose monitoring.
Carry Fast-Acting Sugar – Always Have Glucose Tablets or Candy for Emergencies
Why It’s Important:
- If blood sugar drops suddenly, the fastest way to stop hypoglycemia is with quick-acting carbs.
- Delaying treatment can cause confusion, unconsciousness, or seizures.
Best Fast-Acting Sugars for Emergencies:
Glucose tablets (4g per tablet) – Fastest absorption. Fruit juice (4-6 oz) – Raises sugar quickly. Hard candy (e.g., Skittles, Lifesavers) – Easy to carry and chew. Honey or glucose gel – Ideal for severe lows when swallowing is difficult.
Pro Tip: Keep sugar near your bed, in your car, at work, and in your bag for easy access.
Educate Family & Friends – Make Sure They Know What to Do in Case of an Emergency
Why It’s Important:
- Many diabetic seizures happen unexpectedly, so loved ones need to act fast.
- If someone loses consciousness, they can’t treat themselves—bystanders must step in.
What to Teach Family & Friends:
Recognize warning signs – Teach them the early symptoms of seizures. How to use a Glucagon Kit – This can save a life if blood sugar drops too low. Never force food or drinks during a seizure – It could cause choking. Call 911 if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes – Immediate medical attention is crucial.
Best Action Plan: Make a “Diabetes Emergency Card” listing:
- Your name and emergency contacts.
- Symptoms of hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia.
- Instructions for using glucagon or insulin.
Keeping family, friends, and coworkers informed increases safety and ensures faster response in a crisis.
Final Thoughts: Stay Prepared & Prevent Seizures
By sticking to these prevention strategies, you can dramatically lower your risk of diabetic seizures. The key takeaway is stabilizing blood sugar levels through regular monitoring, proper medication use, and emergency preparedness.
Quick Prevention Checklist: Check blood sugar several times a day. Eat balanced meals on a consistent schedule. Take insulin or meds exactly as prescribed. Limit alcohol and never drink on an empty stomach. Exercise with caution and monitor sugar levels. Carry fast-acting sugar at all times. Educate friends and family on emergency response.
Remember: Diabetic seizures are preventable! A little awareness, preparation, and self-care can save your life. Stay informed, stay prepared, and keep your blood sugar stable! 
Real-Life Scenario: Rajesh’s Experience with Seizures and Diabetes
Rajesh, a 50-year-old man from Delhi, had been living with Type 2 diabetes for over a decade. He was managing his condition with oral medications and diet but had a few instances where his blood sugar levels were poorly controlled. One evening, after skipping a meal and increasing his physical activity, Rajesh began to feel shaky and dizzy. Soon after, he experienced a seizure, which lasted for a few minutes before he regained consciousness.
Rajesh’s family called for medical help, and he was rushed to the hospital. It was determined that his blood sugar had dropped to dangerously low levels, causing the seizure. His doctors explained that skipping meals and overexerting himself without adjusting his medication could have triggered the hypoglycemia that led to the seizure. Rajesh was given glucose intravenously to bring his blood sugar levels back to normal, and he was advised to regularly monitor his blood sugar and avoid skipping meals.
Rajesh’s story highlights the importance of managing blood sugar levels to prevent both low and high blood sugar episodes, which can lead to serious complications such as seizures.
Expert Contributions: Dr. Neha Patel on Diabetes and Seizures
Dr. Neha Patel, an endocrinologist based in Mumbai, explains, “Seizures related to diabetes are typically caused by severe fluctuations in blood sugar levels, either too low or too high. It’s important for people with diabetes to understand the signs of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia and know how to manage them effectively.”
Dr. Patel emphasizes the role of regular blood sugar monitoring in preventing seizures. “By checking blood sugar levels regularly, individuals with diabetes can identify potential issues early and take corrective actions before a seizure occurs.”
Dr. Patel also advises that people with diabetes work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized diabetes management plan. This includes adjusting medications, meal planning, and exercise routines to help prevent blood sugar fluctuations that could lead to seizures.
Recommendations for Preventing Seizures in People with Diabetes
Living with diabetes doesn’t mean that you have to live in fear of seizures. By taking proactive steps to manage blood sugar levels and staying vigilant about your health, you can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing a seizure.
1. Monitor Your Blood Sugar Levels Regularly
One of the most important actions you can take to prevent seizures is to monitor your blood sugar levels regularly. Checking your blood sugar before and after meals, during exercise, and before bed can help you identify potential fluctuations and make adjustments as needed.
Tips for blood sugar monitoring:
- Use a glucometer or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to track your blood sugar throughout the day.
- Keep a record of your readings and share them with your healthcare provider to adjust your diabetes management plan.
- If your blood sugar is too low (below 70 mg/dL), take fast-acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets or fruit juice.
2. Eat Regular, Balanced Meals
Skipping meals or eating irregularly can lead to drops in blood sugar, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. It’s important to eat meals at regular intervals throughout the day, and include a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Meal tips for blood sugar control:
- Include complex carbohydrates like whole grains, vegetables, and legumes that release glucose slowly into the bloodstream.
- Avoid refined carbohydrates and sugary snacks, as they can cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar.
- Eat a small snack if you’re going to be active or exercising to prevent low blood sugar.
3. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can make blood sugar management more difficult. It’s important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated and support overall blood sugar control. Dehydration can lead to higher blood sugar levels and increase the risk of complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
4. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and maintain a healthy weight. However, be mindful of your blood sugar levels before and after exercise, as physical activity can cause blood sugar to drop or rise depending on the intensity and duration.
Exercise tips for diabetics:
- Check your blood sugar before exercise to ensure it’s within a safe range (between 100-250 mg/dL).
- Eat a small snack if your blood sugar is on the lower end before exercising.
- Stay hydrated during exercise and avoid excessive physical activity without proper fuel.
5. Work with Your Healthcare Provider
Regular checkups with your healthcare provider are essential for managing diabetes and preventing complications like seizures. Your doctor can help you create a personalized plan for monitoring blood sugar, adjusting medications, and addressing any other health concerns.
Factual and Reliable Information
According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia can lead to serious complications, including seizures. The ADA emphasizes the importance of blood sugar control in preventing these complications and improving overall health for people with diabetes.
FAQs About Diabetes and Seizures
1. Can high blood sugar cause a seizure?
Yes, severe hyperglycemia, especially with ketoacidosis or dehydration, can trigger seizures.
2. What should I do if I feel warning signs of a seizure?
Eat fast-acting carbs like juice, candy, or glucose tablets immediately.
3. Can seizures from diabetes cause brain damage?
Repeated seizures may lead to neurological issues, but proper management reduces risk.
4. Are diabetic seizures fatal?
They can be life-threatening if untreated, but prompt medical care helps prevent complications.
5. Can a non-diabetic have seizures from low blood sugar?
Yes, though rare, people without diabetes can experience hypoglycemia-induced seizures.
Final Thoughts
Diabetes-related seizures are preventable with proper blood sugar management. Whether caused by low blood sugar or severe hyperglycemia, recognizing early symptoms and taking action can save lives.
If you or a loved one has diabetes, stay informed, prepared, and proactive. Keep emergency glucose on hand, follow your treatment plan, and educate those around you on what to do in case of an emergency.
Stay safe and manage diabetes wisely!
