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Insulin: Everything You Need to Know

Insulin therapy is an important part of managing diabetes and preventing complications that may arise from the disease. So, if your doctor has said that you need to start taking an insulin injection regularly, there are a few things you should know about insulin as knowing the basics can help to make the process of insulin taking easy and safe.

What is Insulin?

Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas and it is responsible for metabolising food into energy and controlling glucose levels in the bloodstream. People with type 1 diabetes have pancreas that can no longer make insulin, and hence, they need a regular insulin injection. In case of type 2 diabetes, insulin may or may not be required.

Insulin Injection Types

There are 5 main types of insulin diabetesinjections depending on how fast they react.

• Rapid-Acting Insulin

This type starts working in about 15 minutes, peaks in an hour, and continues working for up to 4 hours.

• Short-Acting Insulin

This starts working in 30 minutes, peaks in2-3 hours, and remains effective for up to 6 hours.

• Intermediate-Acting Insulin

This insulin is slower and starts working 2-4 hours after administration. It peaks in 10-12 hours and stays effective for up to 18 hours.

• Long-Acting Insulin

This type of insulin reaches the bloodstream after 1-2 hours of administration and stays effective for up to 24 hours. There is no defined peak.

• Premixed/Combination Insulin

This is a combination of short and long-acting insulin.

Administering Insulin Diabetes Injection

Insulin cannot be taken in pill form as it would then be broken down by the digestive system and would be unable to reach the bloodstream. It must be injected subcutaneously. There are three common delivery methods.

• Syringe and vial

Insulin is available in vials and you can draw out the required dosage and inject it with a regular syringe.

• Insulin pens

This is a convenient form of administering insulin. It has a replaceable cartridge and needle. The dosage can be adjusted according to the doctor’s prescription.

• Insulin pumps

This is a small computerised device that delivers a continuous supply of insulin subcutaneously.

Side Effects of Insulin Injection

Now that you understand what insulin is, here are a few side effects to be aware of.

• Irritation around the injection site

The skin around the injection site may swell or develop a dent. You may also experience redness and itchiness. To avoid this, avoid injecting insulin at the same site everyday.

• Weight gain

Intensive insulin therapy may lead to weight gain since all the glucose is not excreted through the urine. It can also affect protein metabolism.

• Blurry vision

The onset of insulin may be associated with blurred vision. This is temporary and resolves on its own with time and regular use.

• Low blood sugar

The common symptoms of this side effect are mood swings, confusion, feeling dizzy, headaches, sleepiness, numbness and a tingling sensation on your tongue and lips, nightmares, seizures and loss of consciousness. If you experience these symptoms, speak to your doctor as soon as possible.

Dos and Don’ts to Avoid Side Effects of Insulin Injection

If you’re administering insulin to yourself or someone in the family, here are a few things to keep in mind.

• Take as prescribed

Do not adjust the insulin dosage on your own. Always follow the doctor’s prescription and try to take insulin at the same time every day. If you take the wrong dose, speak to your doctor immediately.

• Rotate injection sites

Do not inject yourself in the same place every day. You can inject insulin on the front or side of your thighs, on the upper buttocks, the upper arms or the abdomen. Try and maintain a distance of 2-3 inches from the previous injection site.

• Maintain high standards of hygiene

Always wash your hands before handling the insulin injection. Clean the site on your skin with an alcohol pad or wet cotton ball. Wait a few seconds for the area to dry and then inject yourself.

• Check your blood sugar regularly

Watch your blood sugar levels closely. You can use a blood glucose meter to do so. Keep a record of these readings and share them with your doctor at every consultation.

• Make sure your friends and family are aware of your insulin requirements

Your close friends and family members must know that you are diabetic and require insulin. You may also choose to teach someone how to administer the injection and share details of your dosage with them in case of emergencies.

Conclusion

Insulin injections can be a lifesaving form of treatment for diabetics. If you have been advised to take insulin, make sure you follow the doctor’s prescription. Along with insulin, controlling your diet and getting regular exercise can also help control and manage the condition.

Sources: Healthline, Endocrineweb

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on August 25, 2022