Neonatal hypoglycemia can be difficult to detect if it is not tested for, and it is not tested for unless there are rather obvious symptoms or signs of peril for the child. Hypoglycemia is a condition wherein the body fails to deliver the proper amounts of glucose to the brain after the small reserves have been spent. Glucose is the energy chemical that the body builds through the consumption of natural sugars and starches. Over 90% of our organs functioning energy is derived of glycogen, and when we don't get enough the brain is the hardest hit organ in the body. Because glucose is the most important energy maker to the brain, and there isn't much room for the storage of reserve glucose, the body must deliver fresh glucose to the brain on an almost constant basis.

Neonatal hypoglycemia, just like that which is present in adults who are affected with the condition, causes the body to release a great amount of adrenaline to compensate for the lack of glucose energy it is receiving. Adrenaline is that powerful chemical which gives us butterflies in the stomach, cold sweats, heart palpitations, and giddiness when we are faced with overwhelming circumstances such as car accidents, scary movies, roller coaster rides, or that all consuming first kiss. Adrenaline is extremely important, but it can not take the place of glucose in the body, and the physical repercussions of an overbearing adrenaline attack to the body are quite harsh.

Neonatal hypoglycemia is often detected after a new baby appears to be jittery, cranky, and seems to have a hard time eating or falling asleep. There are often reports of babies and toddlers seemingly dazed as well, and these episodes can occur for up to three hours at a time. A healthy amount of glucose in the bloodstream usually falls around 2.22 for an infant or young baby, and anything below this can affect him in negative ways. Adrenaline shock or seizures have been reported in babies whose glucose levels fall below 1.00, and in those who suffer long periods of lowered glucose levels.

If you fear that your child may be suffering neonatal hypoglycemia, you should make an appointment with his medical professional as soon as possible, or take him the emergency room if you feel that the symptoms or condition are urgent. Certainly, if your baby is showing signs of open eyed lethargy or seizures where the extremities are shaking or the eyes are rolling, you will need to seek emergency help right away. Treatment can be quite easy, but the condition needs to be monitored and checked for instability very often to avoid harsh attacks.