Which symptom is commonly associated with autonomic activation during hypoglycemia and should be reported?

• A. Headache
• B. Irritability
• C. Cold and clammy skin
• D. Hot and dry skin

Answer: (C)

Autonomic activation during hypoglycemia triggers the body's fight-or-flight response, releasing adrenaline and related signals that produce symptoms such as sweating and pale, cold skin. Cold and clammy skin directly reflects this sympathetic response and is a clear sign that blood glucose is dropping, so it should be reported and acted on promptly with a fast-acting carbohydrate or medical guidance as needed. Headache and irritability can occur during hypoglycemia but are not the classic autonomic signals, and hot, dry skin points away from hypoglycemia and toward other conditions like heat exposure or fever. Recognizing cold and clammy skin as an autonomic sign helps prevent further glucose decline by ensuring quick treatment.