There is some really technical information around concerning this subject. However I reckon that these following comments are simple to understand and make sense.

And I quote..."When sudden illness or severe stress occurs, the body requires extra supplies of growth hormone and cortisol, to maintain a normal level of blood sugar. If growth hormone or cortisol levels are inadequate (low), blood sugar levels may become low (hypoglycaemia) and the child will feel very unwell. This is a very serious condition because the brain requires glucose (sugar) for normal function. If blood glucose levels are low, prompt treatment must be given to restore the child to normal and to prevent the possible onset of confusion, loss of consciousness or fits.

Most children who have isolated growth hormone deficiency with no other hormone deficiencies at all do not have major problems with low blood sugar attacks. However many children with deficiencies of both growth hormone and cortisol can have serious problems with blood sugar when they are stressed".

...."whenever a child or adult with this condition (CAH) is stressed and /or ill, he or she also runs the possible risk of hypoglycaemia. It is important to read the section on hypoglycaemia carefully and to give extra glucose containing fluids or food at the time of illness, to prevent the development of hypoglycaemia"

....."the major hormones involved with increasing blood sugar in times of stress are corticosteroids (cortisone), growth hormone, glucagon and catecholamines. Corticosteroids and glucagon can be given to treat children at risk of hypoglycaemia."

 

Causes of Hypoglycaemia

a) infective illness, especially with a high temperature

b) vomiting (especially if hydrocortisone tablets are vomited)

c) accident resulting in physical injury

d) any general anaesthetic for any condition at all

e) missed meals

f) severe emotional stress

g) unusually prolonged or extremely energetic activity

 

Symptoms of Hypoglycaemia

Mild Hypoglycaemia:  People with slightly low blood sugar may feel dizzy, faint or hot but usually look pale. They may tingle, tremble, sweat, have a headache or palpitations.

Moderate Hypoglycaemia:   People with more serious hypoglycaemia also look pale and sometimes appear drunk, ’glassy-eyed’, confused, unusually sleepy or very aggressive.

Severe Hypoglycaemia:   Loss of consciousness (coma) and /or convulsions (fits) indicate that the problem is very severe.

 

"Corticosteroids - Hydrocortisone etc. are vital in helping the body to overcome stress as it helps to keep the blood sugar and blood pressure at a safe level. Use these when the person (with CAH) is under stress, unwell or beginning to feel weak and sick. Double or treble the usual morning dose and continue this three times a day until the person is  well and the stress situation has ceased. If the person begins to vomit a hydrocortisone injection is necessary"

Excerpts taken from: Hormones and Me