HYPOGLYCEMIA AND NON-COGNITIVE ASPECTS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL FUNCTION IN INSULIN-DEPENDENT (TYPE-1) DIABETES-MELLITUS (IDDM)

Hypoglycaemia provokes unpleasant symptoms and sensations in patients with insulin-dependent (Type 1) diabetes mellitus (IDDM). There is muc h interest in, and information on, the cognitive effects of acute insu lin-induced hypoglycaemia. However, the effects of hypoglycaemia on br ain function extend to important, non-cognitive aspects of psychologic al functioning, which are reviewed here. Acute hypoglycaemia induces c hanges in mood which result in a transient state of 'tense tiredness', a decrease in happiness, an increase in tense arousal, and decreased energetic arousal. Appraisals of life problems are affected adversely. Frequent exposure to hypoglycaemia is associated with heightened fear of hypoglycaemia, which can be quantitated in individuals. Personalit y may also influence behavioural responses to hypoglycaemia and the ab ility of an individual to cope with diabetes. The adverse effects of h ypoglycaemia on mood, behaviour, personality, social function and mana gement of diabetes in individual patients may be profound and need to be identified and addressed appropriately.